The interviewer would like to know if you are happy with being paid solely on your performance. The majority of roles that will pay 100% commission are retail and sales based positions. Whether the job pays 100% commission or not, may not be the point of this question. Assure the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to be a top performer, regardless of commissions or a comfy base salary. Are you able to work hard and be paid based on your performance alone?
Example #1
"I can assure you that my performance is always top notch and I am comfortable being paid based on my performance. I have earned solely on commission for many years."
Example #2
"Although I have never worked in a 100% commission environment, I do know that I would perform well, and hit my sales targets, even in the absence of a base salary. I am confident in my ability to be a high performer, either way."
Example #3
"As a sales professional, I am motivated to drive my performance independently. Working in a 100% commission sales environment allows me to determine my compensation and manage my business and income accordingly."
Example #4
"I can assure you that my performance is always top notch and I am comfortable being paid based on my performance. I have earned solely on commission for many years, first as a car salesperson and now as a temp recruiter."
Example #5
"I can assure you that my performance is always top notch and I am comfortable being paid based on my performance. I have earned solely on commission plus a minimal draw for many years, first as a car salesperson and now as a permanent staffing recruiter."
Anonymous Answer
"As someone who has never been in a position whose pay is based on a commission, I would say that I am now not in a place to take the risk with my current family situation."
And that is totally okay! You are likely past the point in your career where 100% commission is tempting. Your honesty will be imperative as the hiring company works on putting an offer together for you.
Was this answer helpful?
or
Thank you