How do you handle rejection in sales?
Theme: Resilience Role: Sales Engineer Function: Sales
Interview Question for Sales Engineer: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Sales Engineer: Provides technical expertise and support during the sales process. 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 Resilience with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Emotional resilience: I understand that rejection is a natural part of sales and I don't take it personally. I have developed emotional resilience to handle rejection without letting it affect my motivation or confidence
- Positive mindset: I maintain a positive mindset and view rejection as an opportunity to learn and improve. I analyze the reasons behind the rejection and use it as feedback to refine my sales approach
- Adaptability: I am adaptable and flexible in my sales strategies. If one approach doesn't work, I quickly adjust and try a different approach. I understand that different customers have different needs and preferences
- Persistence: I believe in the power of persistence. I don't give up easily and continue to follow up with potential clients even after facing rejection. I understand that timing and circumstances can play a significant role in sales
- Active listening: I actively listen to my customers and prospects to understand their concerns and objections. By addressing their concerns effectively, I can minimize the chances of rejection
- Building relationships: I focus on building strong relationships with my clients. By establishing trust and rapport, I can reduce the likelihood of rejection and increase customer loyalty
- Continuous learning: I constantly seek opportunities to improve my sales skills and knowledge. By staying updated with industry trends and best practices, I can enhance my sales techniques and minimize rejection
- Seeking feedback: I actively seek feedback from my sales managers, colleagues, and customers. Constructive feedback helps me identify areas of improvement and refine my sales approach to reduce rejection
- Maintaining motivation: I stay motivated by setting realistic goals and celebrating small wins. By focusing on my achievements and progress, I can maintain a positive attitude even in the face of rejection
- Self-reflection: After facing rejection, I take time to reflect on the situation and evaluate my performance. This self-reflection helps me identify any shortcomings and develop strategies to overcome them in future sales interactions
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Resilience: Assessing your ability to bounce back from rejection and maintain motivation
- Problem-solving: Evaluating your strategies for overcoming objections and finding alternative solutions
- Emotional intelligence: Understanding how you manage your emotions and maintain a positive attitude despite rejection
- Adaptability: Determining your flexibility in adjusting sales approaches based on customer feedback and rejection
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of resilience: If the candidate shows an inability to bounce back from rejection and becomes discouraged easily, it may indicate a lack of resilience and perseverance required in sales
- Blaming others: If the candidate consistently blames external factors or other people for rejection instead of taking responsibility for their own actions, it may suggest a lack of accountability and problem-solving skills
- Lack of adaptability: If the candidate is unable to adapt their approach or learn from rejection, it may indicate a resistance to change and an inability to improve their sales techniques
- Negative attitude: If the candidate displays a negative attitude towards rejection, customers, or the sales process in general, it may suggest a lack of enthusiasm and passion for the role
- Inability to handle objections: If the candidate struggles to handle objections or provide effective responses to rejection, it may indicate a lack of persuasive communication skills and the ability to overcome customer concerns