Do you consider yourself competitive?
Be honest! Remember that sales roles are about results and are typically very goal-oriented. Because of that, interviewers may ask about your hobbies and experiences as far back as high school sports teams. Even if this feels strange, take a break to chuckle and re-focus. Provide your best answer and your reasoning!
Try saying: "I was All-American in 3 sports in high school! Maybe I would've gone even further if I'd picked just one to focus on but I was so focused on being in-season year-round, I wouldn't take any of it back! Even now, I play rec softball with my friends!"
If you're competitive but not athletic, tell them about how you've never lost a game of Scrabble! Don't be afraid to give an out-of-the-box answer, as long as it's professional.
Many interviewers will ask a number of behavioral questions like this one in a sales interview to gauge whether you've got the competitive edge. While an Interviewer is looking for someone who will fight to meet the number, they are also screening OUT candidates who will fight with their co-workers!
Culture fit is at the root of all behavioral questions. If you are staunchly competitive but never cut-throat, this is a great time to make that known! If you prefer an environment where the "dog eat dog" mentally does prevail,
Again, interviewers are gauging your response here to make sure they're bringing on someone who will fit in on the team. Be confident, not cocky. You are the "I" in your last team, own your accomplishments and speak about them proudly but take care to speak of the work you did to EARN those results. If you are only able to list off wins and not able to provide the actions that got you there, you risk sounding like you didn't contribute to the success.
If you don't consider yourself competitive, tell the interviewer WHY.
The word 'competitive' has definitely earned itself a negative connotation in some circles. If you view it in that manner, express that to the interviewer politely and instead describe how you motivate yourself to meet and exceed goals!