What experience do you have generating new leads?
The interviewer is hoping to dig deeper into your experience building new business with this question. By asking specifically about lead generating, the interviewer is trying to get a better grasp on your new business strategy, experience, and how much training you will need if you are hired.
Be honest when discussing your professional experience. Since they did not mention medical device sales, you can draw on past successes from other industries. If you are going to do so, just be sure to tell the interviewer exactly how that experience will translate!
Avoid giving the interviewer a flat "no." If you have no prior experience generating leads tell the interviewer the most relevant experience that you do have and why you think it will translate! Use every question as an opportunity to showcase your skills. Don't take any question that you have to answer with a negative as a way to out yourself!
"In my last role with ABC Company, I would maintain relationships with the vendors that serviced the same physician groups as I did. In speaking with them, I'd often hear about new practices opening or product lines that were being discontinued. I would take all of these conversations as opportunities to both build relationships and generate leads to new business!"
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
In my last company, we launched Nuzyra (a new antibiotic) in the Los Angeles territory. I began by studying the data and analyzing competitors. From there, I would assess potential opportunities by cold-calling, setting up f2f meetings, and visiting in person. I would hunt consistently - if I was driving in an area in my territory on a Saturday and it said "foot & ankle" I would be in that office dropping marketing material and trying to set up a meeting. That's how I was able to exceed my quota in the first quarter.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome! Your enthusiasm and passion for sales and generating new leads shine through in your response which is great. The interviewer will be looking for someone who is hungry and willing to go the extra mile. Excellent answer!