How do you handle objections from clients or customers?
Theme: Objection Handling, Customer Relations Role: Sales Manager Function: Sales
Interview Question for Sales Manager: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Sales Manager: Oversees a team of sales representatives and sets sales targets. This role falls within the Sales function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Objection Handling, Customer Relations with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Understanding the objection: I start by actively listening to the client or customer's objection and seeking clarification if needed. This helps me understand their concerns and allows me to address them effectively
- Empathy & validation: I acknowledge the client or customer's objection and validate their perspective. This shows empathy and helps build rapport and trust
- Providing solutions: I offer alternative solutions or options that address the client or customer's objection. I focus on highlighting the benefits and value of these solutions
- Addressing concerns: I proactively address any specific concerns raised by the client or customer. This may involve providing additional information, data, or testimonials to alleviate their doubts
- Overcoming objections: I use persuasive techniques to overcome objections by emphasizing the unique selling points of the product or service. This includes highlighting success stories, case studies, or competitive advantages
- Negotiation & compromise: If necessary, I am open to negotiation and finding a middle ground that satisfies both the client or customer's needs and the company's objectives. This may involve adjusting pricing, terms, or offering additional incentives
- Closing the conversation: Once I have addressed the objection and provided satisfactory solutions, I seek confirmation from the client or customer that their concerns have been resolved. I then proceed to close the conversation by summarizing the agreed-upon solutions and next steps
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Communication skills: Assessing how well you can effectively address and resolve objections from clients or customers
- Problem-solving abilities: Evaluating your ability to think on your feet and find solutions to overcome objections
- Customer focus: Determining your commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs by handling objections professionally
- Resilience: Assessing your ability to handle rejection and maintain a positive attitude when faced with objections
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of empathy: Not showing understanding or concern for the client's perspective or needs
- Defensiveness: Reacting negatively or becoming argumentative when faced with objections
- Inability to handle rejection: Showing signs of frustration or becoming discouraged when dealing with objections
- Lack of problem-solving skills: Failing to provide effective solutions or alternatives to address client objections
- Poor communication skills: Struggling to clearly articulate responses or failing to actively listen to client concerns
- Lack of product knowledge: Being unable to provide accurate and detailed information about the product or service being sold
- Inflexibility: Being unwilling to adapt or find compromises when faced with objections
- Lack of confidence: Displaying uncertainty or hesitation in handling objections
- Aggressiveness: Responding to objections with a confrontational or pushy attitude
- Lack of follow-up: Failing to address objections or provide additional information after the initial interaction