How to Answer: Have you worked in sales or telemarketing before?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Fundraising job interview.
22. Have you worked in sales or telemarketing before?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Experience in telemarketing or any other sales position can position you well for success in fundraising. The interviewer wants to know that you can deliver impressive sales conversions because this means you will likely be able to contribute meaningfully to the organization's overall fundraising goal.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Share if you have worked in telemarketing or sales before. If you have, then you should discuss what you sold, and how you sold it, and come prepared to tell the interviewer specific sales numbers. Backing up your experience with results will assure the interviewer that you are prepared to take on this fundraising position.
If you do not have sales or telemarketing experience, then describe how you would go about securing commitments from potential donors.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked as a medical sales representative for the past fifteen years. In that time, I have sold several thousand units of integral medical technology to support healthcare advancements in the United States. My sales contributed to record profits for my company five years in a row, and I have always surpassed my sales quota. I would be delighted to bring my skills and experience to bear in this position raising funds for your organization."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have never had a sales or telemarketing position, I do have extensive experience in customer-facing support roles that have required me to anticipate customer needs. I feel very comfortable meeting new people and handling client issues on the phone and in person. My ability to help people feel at ease makes them more receptive to my suggestions, and I believe these are essential qualities in sales and fundraising. I know that I can learn about any product, speak about it enthusiastically, and demonstrate its usefulness to customers. In the same way, I would learn everything I could about the nonprofit organization's cause in order to passionately share it with a potential donor."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022