MockQuestions

Sales Associate Mock Interview

32 Questions Created By

To help you prepare for your Sales Associate interview, here are 32 interview questions and answer examples.

First Question

32 Sales Associate Interview Questions

20 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   How do you adapt in a constantly changing environment?

How to Answer

Change is prevalent in the workplace today, and the interviewer wants to know that you can embrace change rather than become thrown off by it.

Think of a story-based example that you can share with the interviewer where you faced change but the result was positive. Perhaps your job duties shift, or there is a significant revision to store policy. Maybe you will have to welcome a new manager you're not particularly fond of, or your company is acquired by a competitor. These situations make great examples to draw on to showcase your ability to be adaptive in the workplace.

If you do not have previous work experience to draw from, think of an example from school, volunteer work, or a sport you are involved in. Highlight the fact that you are able to adapt quickly to changes while still being able to meet the primary goals and tasks that are in front of you. Describe skills that you have that allow you to adapt to change, whether you are good at keeping calm under stressful situations, you are a quick learner, or you have excellent problem-solving skills. The interviewer should be confident that you are open to challenges or even thrive off of them.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I adapt well to change and even welcome changes since they cause me to learn new skills and become more flexible in my profession. Last year our company was sold to a competitor, and a lot of our management team changed hands. It was a lot of change to handle in a short time, especially being unsure of who to report to ahead of others. I am resilient, though, and have made the big changes work by keeping my head down and delivering great work, no matter who it goes to in the end."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

2.   How do you handle stressful situations?

How to Answer

Your ability to manage stress will directly influence your ability to do your job successfully. Before answering this question, think of some ways you have learned to deal with stress at work. As a Sales Associate, you can't always take a break when you need it, so share what you choose to do instead.

Some workplace stress management strategies include:

- Track your most common stress factors and make a plan to address them.
- Establish professional boundaries where you can.
- Try breathing exercises or meditation on your break.
- Recharge your emotional batteries throughout the day.
- Express your stress to your manager/supervisor and ask for help.

It is important to show the interviewer that you can handle high-stress situations in a healthy way. Explain your process when handling a stressful work-related situation. You can do this by describing an experience where you successfully managed your stress levels at work.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"As a Sales Associate, I fully expect to be put into stressful situations and can professionally handle a broad scope of pressure. I remain calm when facing a stressful situation and look for ways to solve the issue swiftly. For instance, if there is an unexpected customer dispute, I will determine what can be done to ensure the customer is cared for. I am always ready to adjust my day because stressful situations are bound to occur when working in sales. My current manager, when you call for a reference, will also attest to my coping strategies when under stress and pressure."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

3.   Have you ever walked up to a stranger and started a conversation? If so, tell me about the experience and your overall approach.

How to Answer

As a Sales Associate, you will need to be comfortable making conversation with anyone and everyone! This question is your chance to show the interviewer that you will not be afraid to approach customers and make a connection with them. By showing comfort in talking to strangers, you demonstrate that you have the personality required to be successful in sales. When telling your story for this behavioral-based question, you can use the STAR framework. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I enjoy striking up conversations with strangers. I take public transit to work every day and find myself in riveting conversations many days. For instance, on my way to work yesterday, there was a gentleman sitting beside me. He was reading a book that I've had on my to-read list for some time. I asked him what he thought about the book, and what he was learning from it. It turns out he is a professor at the university I attend. I was happy to have made a connection with him through a memorable conversation. This will be especially beneficial if I ever have a class with him in the future. As a Sales Associate, I realize that the ability to strike up converstaion with confidence is a very important quality. I have the confidence required to approach customers and I have the people-skills to make a connection with them."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

4.   How do you move forward from a string of rejections?

How to Answer

Rejection is a normal part of any sales job. Let the interviewer know that you are human and rejection does get to you, but you know how to bounce back and keep being persistent, and that rejection fuels you to do better. Express that your past sales experience has taught you how to deal with rejection. Position rejection as a learning tool - through rejection, you learn how to adjust and improve your sales techniques to reduce the rate of rejection.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"When a customer rejects me, it's frustrating, especially when I am trying to hit a sales quota and am feeling the pressure. To offset this, I will always focus on the positive. Perhaps the customer will return, or maybe the next person to walk into the store will purchase double the amount of product from me. I like to believe that it will all work out in the end."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

5.   Why have you chosen to work as a Sales Associate?

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know what has led you to pursue this Sales Associate role. They want to see that your ambitions run deeper than simply needing any job. Take the time to bring your interests to life for your interviewer. This question presents a great opportunity to storytell, as well.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"Ever since I was young, I knew that I had a natural ability for sales. I worked as an ice-cream re-seller when I was just 12 years old. I had a cooler full of ice that I attached to my bicycle! I would ride to the neighborhood park after school and offer the goodies to the neighborhood kids for $2 each. I absolutely loved the feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day when my ice-cream inventory was all sold and I could count all of the money I made. I continue to apply that same excitement when hitting my sales goals as a Sales Associate. I love that feeling I get when I complete a sale or exceed my targets."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

6.   Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

How to Answer

Interviewing and on-boarding is a costly and time-consuming process for any hiring company. The interviewer would like assurance that you are seeking a long-term fit rather than an interim job until something better comes along. Before your interview, take a look at the career growth options with the hiring company. Also consider the ways that you can add long-term value even without a job promotion.

You could also conduct LinkedIn research on the company and its team members. Gain a better understanding of the typical career trajectory of the company's Sales Associates who held this role before you. For instance, your research may show that previous Sales Associates are often promoted to Store Manager positions after some time, and then promoted to Territory Management over time. This approach can give you a strong sense of what is reasonable when it comes to career growth in the organization.

If you have stable tenure with jobs in the past (the length of time you've been there), be sure to highlight this positive factor. Overall, your answer should be positive and in alignment with the organizations' long-term goals.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"On Company ABC's website, I read that the organization is estimating an overall growth of 600% over the next 4 years. If given the opportunity, over time, I would be happy to take on additional responsibilities and move into a store manager position. I would also be excited to participate in company-approved courses and workshops in order to further develop my skills to complement the company's growth-based goals."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

7.   What do you think are the most important characteristics of a great Sales Associate?

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know the attributes that you value most in a Sales Associate. They also want to know that you possess these characteristics yourself. Discuss what you believe to be the most important characteristic for a Sales Associate to have, why you believe it to be true, and then talk about how you embody that characteristic.

Some ideas to get you started:

- Trustworthy
- Accountable
- Committed
- Results-oriented
- Detailed
- Driven
- Strong Negotiator
- Reliable

All of these attributes are valuable in a sales setting!

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I believe that a Sales Associate needs to be a good listener and a solid communicator so they can ask the right questions of their customer and make truly educated product and service suggestions. I have been working to hone my skills in verbal communication and have educated myself on asking great questions that lead to a sale."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

8.   Are you able to work overtime, weekends, and holidays?

How to Answer

It's imperative to answer any scheduling-related questions with full transparency. If you were aware that overtime, weekends, and holidays were a requirement for this Sales Associate role when you first applied, and you can accommodate, give a concise answer. If you have some scheduling restrictions such as class times or parenting expectations, use this question as an opportunity to tell the interviewer what days/times you are available. If you were not aware that overtime, weekends, and holidays were a requirement, you ask what the schedule or rotation looks like and then continue the conversation. It's important to show flexibility where you can while maintaining a professional stance on your personal needs.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I am happy to take any hours that are given to me. I have a flexible lifestyle and am aware that the hours may be unconventional from time to time."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

9.   Do you enjoy socializing with customers?

How to Answer

Sales Associates spend their days holding many conversations, meeting new people. Tell the interviewer what you enjoy specifically when socializing with customers. Discuss what gives you joy when helping a customer and why it is fulfilling to you. Being a naturally social person is a positive attribute, so if you are the type of person who loves talking to people and meeting new people, tell the interviewer this. Conversing with customers is a great way to build relationships and to ensure that they become or continue to be return buyers.

Perhaps you are more of an introvert who does not feel energized after hanging out with large amounts of people. That is okay, and you do not need to pretend to be someone you are not. Share the types of people or situations that you enjoy. It's essential to maintain a positive angle when addressing this question.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"As a true extrovert, I find having conversations with new people to be energizing. I enjoy being around people who are open to chatting and ready to discover how my products can serve them and meet their needs. Customers who are friendly and open to a transparent discussion are definitely a source of joy for me as a Sales Associate. Even more so, I love to have follow-up conversations with customers after they make a purchase or when they return for another product. I look forward to getting to know your customer base!"

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

10.   What do you think are the most important skills in succeeding in sales?

How to Answer

This strengths-based question has a dual purpose. First, the interviewer wants to know the factors you believe are important to succeed in this role. Next, they want assurance that you possess these skills yourself. To prepare for this question, spend time studying the job description. It will have clues that tell you the skills and strengths that the hiring company is seeking. Also, take time to single out the strengths that you believe are a match and help you succeed in this role. Elaborate on why you think these skills are so important and how you will apply them on the job when you are hired.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"After reading the job posting and doing my own research on sales success, I believe the most important skills are clear communication, active listening, and diligence. I clearly communicate by asking the right questions and never assuming that I entirely understand the message I am being told. Active listening should go hand-in-hand with clear communication. I actively listen to my customers and mirror them, repeating back what they tell me to ensure that I am interpreting their needs correctly. Next, diligence is important. Many customers will say no before they say yes. I have been trained to see 'no' as starting a negotiation rather than the end of a negotiation. I enjoy the challenge of selling and will not give up on a customer the first time. I believe these strengths are a large reason I am a top sales associate in my current company."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

11.   What do you see as the key skills in closing?

How to Answer

A significant part of your role as a Sales Associate is closing deals. Depending on the product you are selling, the sales process may be quite competitive, and the stakes could be high. For instance, if you are working as a Sales Associate for a car dealership or a jewelry store, it will be imperative that you know how to close a sale. Show the interviewer that you understand 'the art of the close.'

Some factors to closing a sale:

- Avoid reacting adversely to the word 'no' from a customer
- Probe into your customers' challenges and focus on a solution
- Ask discovery questions that help you to understand your customers' priorities
- Secure true buy-in from your customer by collecting 'yes' responses
- Never try to prove your dominance, and always listen with an active ear

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"It is important to stay calm, remain patient and be personable while closing a sale. I like my customers to feel like they're receiving the most personalized service possible by connecting with them on a personal level. Customers should feel comfortable, not like I am forcing them to buy something they don't want or need, to serve my own agenda. My customers should always feel that I have their best interests at heart. I like to ask discovery questions to figure out the customer's wants and needs and create a sense of urgency. The customer must know they are receiving a great product for the best price and that it fits with their needs."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

12.   How do you typically like to engage a customer?

How to Answer

It is important to show that you are attentive to your customers while also maintaining your purpose as a sales associate, which is to make a sale! Describe your customer service communication and engagement style. Customer service training will tell you that there are many approaches to engaging with a customer.

This is a chance for you to show why you are an excellent salesperson. We each have a unique personality, and you want to convey your personal style to the interviewer. You can even give a step-by-step example of how you might engage a customer who has walked into a store.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I like to greet the customer by saying hello and asking how they're doing. I observe what they are looking at and give them information about the product(s). I then ask them if they have any questions. I keep the conversation light and friendly. I think it's important to make the customer feel comfortable and taken care of."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

13.   What does good customer service mean to you?

How to Answer

Great customer service is directly attached to sales success! For this reason and many more, the interviewer wants to know that you have the ability to deliver great service if you are hired for their Sales Associate position. Good customer service means bringing your problem-solving skills to work, meeting your customer's needs, actively listening, maintaining a positive attitude, and possessing strong knowledge of the products you are selling. If you have experience as a Sales Associate, you can give an example of how you've used these service elements to deliver an exceptional customer experience. If you are new to your career, you could describe a time when you received excellent customer service and highlight what made the experience so memorable.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I truly believe that providing good customer service is crucial to success in sales. To make this happen, I create the best experience possible for my customer. This action includes knowing my products inside and out to recommend products for them based on my knowledge. I also ask a lot of thoughtful questions and actively listen before making a suggestion. I want my customers to be satisfied with their purchase and come back frequently."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

14.   How good are you with targets and deadlines?

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know that you are a diligent individual when meeting work-related deadlines. When answering, it's important to show a determination to complete your tasks on time. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to act diligently on the job. If you can, give an example when you were given a deadline and met or exceeded your employers' expectations.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I am a strong goal-setter and have a proven ability to meet deadlines. For instance, in my previous position, I was asked to sell 75% of the remaining XYZ product in 30 days because the product was going to be out of season shortly. After mapping out the amount of product I needed to sell per day, I exceeded my target. I ended up selling 100% of the product in 21 business days. Part of my success was due to my ability to map out a plan and properly utilize the company's Salesforce system to track my progress."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

15.   As a Sales Associate, what do you see as your top goals within a company?

How to Answer

To answer this question, think about your top responsibilities from your past experiences as a Sales Associate. Choose two goals that you believe are the most important factors to your success and your company's success. Show enthusiasm for your work and make the connection between these important tasks and how hiring you will benefit the company.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"As a Sales Associate, my primary goal is to generate sales. I always have my sales target in mind and do everything I can to reach this goal including prospecting, and training myself on the art of closing a sale. My other primary goal is to provide good customer service to maintain a positive reputation for the company. It is essential to provide customers with the best experience as this is the best way to gain repeat business and valuable referrals. In my current role, I apply these principles and have landed in the top 3 for sales numbers the last four months running. I look forward to bringing the same success to your business."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

16.   In your current position, how much time do you spend each day communicating directly with prospects?

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know how much face time you have with your prospects. Express an interest and commitment to relationship-building and business development activities. Show that you nurture the sales process and your prospects. This activity is especially essential when working as a Sales Associate for higher ticket items such as jewelry, vehicles, art, and furniture. You can answer by describing what percentage of your day is spent prospecting and reaching out to your potential customers. Describe your method for reaching out, as well. Take the interview through your sales journey!

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"In my current position, I start each day with 30 minutes of phone calls to customers I met in the two weeks prior who did not purchase on their original visit. Then, when the doors to our store open, I focus solely on helping the customers who walk in. I am sure to be present with them, ask about their needs, and take their contact information if they are on the fence about a purchase. At the end of my day, I put these prospects into my database and enter them into my follow-up sequence. Since implementing this prospecting approach six months ago, my sales have increased by 27%."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

17.   What do you know about the products and or services we offer our customers?

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know how much time you have researched their organization before attending your interview. Take the time to dig deep into the company's history as well as its successes. Reading their Wikipedia page will not be enough preparation. You should also perform a Google search and look for awards or other exciting accolades to mention. Review the company website and take note of common themes in their mission and core values. Get to know their brand story as well. Check the company's social media platforms for themes in messaging and customer engagement. You should also search who their follower demographic is on social media. This information will give you a strong idea of their target customer. Ensure that you have a strong grasp of their products/services.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I have shopped at Company ABC for many years and know that this store is always on the cutting edge of fashion, coming out with trends before anyone else. Through my research, I also read that you offer a buy one, give one clothing program to help underserved areas in our region. It appears that you truly care about your community and customers, which was a stand-out factor when I chose to apply for this Sales Associate role."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

18.   Do you have any experience selling the products we offer?

How to Answer

If you are familiar with selling similar products to the hiring company's offering, talk specifically about your experience. You could discuss:

- How long you sold these products
- What specific brand(s) you sold
- The location you sold the product (malls, trade shows, fairs, kiosks, etc.)
- Whether or not you had to meet sales goals in the past
- Any accomplishments you have achieved while selling this particular product.

If you are not familiar with selling similar products, let the interviewer know what you are familiar with. Perhaps you have not sold related products, but maybe you are well experienced in sales or understand how they work from being an avid consumer. Show that you are confident and you have the skills required to be successful in this retail role.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Entry Level

"I have been an avid consumer of tech and electronics for many years. I often read reviews on TechRadar and GadgetReview, which help me to make smart buying decisions. I am confident that my knowledge of your products' most popular specs and features will translate very well with your customers. With some training in closing a sale, I believe that I can quickly become a top-performing retail associate at Company ABC."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I have sold similar products for the past four years. When I worked with Company XYZ, I helped open a new location in our local mall. At that time, we introduced similar new cell phone and gaming models to many excited customers. Since that initial introduction, there have been many improvements to these products, and I am continually excited to represent ever-changing tech products. I consistently exceed my sales target of 200 sales per month and am eager to do the same with Company ABC."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

19.   Are you familiar with cataloging, inventorying, stocking of merchandise, and other sales-related responsibilities?

How to Answer

If you are familiar with inventory duties or other tasks related to product inventory, talk about these tasks and how they play a role in your current or previous positions. These details could include how often you are required to count inventory, how many SKU's you track, whether you divide inventory responsibilities with other team members, or a specific system you used for maintaining inventory.

If you do not have related experience, be transparent about this fact. Rather than leading with an 'I do not have...' statement, try leading with what you do offer. Perhaps that includes excellent organizational skills or a superior ability to track items in Excel spreadsheets.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"In my current position I help lead our inventory count every month-end. We use a basic Excel spreadsheet to track our inventory count and then we submit the count to our head office through our internal retail POS system. Proper counts are very important and I see great value in maintaining accuracy every day to ensure that month-end and other merchandise and stock responsibilities are completed seamlessly."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

20.   Do you have any prior experience in the field of sales and customer service?

How to Answer

If you have prior sales/customer service experience, describe your experience by giving a brief overview of your resume. This question offers a great opportunity to reveal sales and customer service experiences that may not be included in your resume. Give examples by using your previous work experience, whether you worked in a retail environment, or related. Be sure to provide your interviewer with your sales-related accomplishments as well.

If you do not have experience as a Sales Associate, be transparent about this fact. Rather than leading with an 'I do not have...' statement, try leading with what you do offer. Perhaps you are a very social person and find it easy to speak to strangers, or if you are a friend who constantly introduces your friends to the hiring company's products. Even if you don't have past sales/customer service work experience, you should be able to demonstrate that you are driven and that you have the characteristic and transferable skills needed to be successful in this Sales Associate role.

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

Answer Example

"I have experience in both sales and customer service. I started by career with Company XYZ where I was hired as a cashier. I checked out approximately 100 customers per shift, and always received compliments on my positive attitude and friendly demeanor. After one year, I was promoted to a sales position with the same company. I learned how to sell through active listening and asking helpful discovery questions. Now, as a Sales Associate, I am consistently a top performer in the category of overall sales, number of referrals, and positive customer feedback. I am excited for the opportunity to continue my success as a Sales Associate with Company ABC."

Written by Rachelle Enns on February 19th, 2021

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