Tell me how we can best motivate you.
"Bartending isn't necessarily sales, but I think a lot of what I do in the service industry can relate to this particular sales position. I do well with competition and incentives. For instance, I seem always to shine when the restaurant does a featured cocktail that they push us to sell. The winner gets a gift card, a free dessert, or something of the sort. A little competition with an extra perk gets me firing on all cylinders."
"I am best motivated by a friendly internal competition that encourages teamwork. A lot of what I do is independent work so when a sales incentive comes into play, with the need to work collectively as a team, I love it. These instances give me the chance to learn from other sales professionals, and mentor those junior to me."
The financial incentive motivates salespeople most often. But the interviewer is looking to hear if there are other proverbial carrots they can dangle to keep you excited. What drives you on the day to day? Is it a competition? A pat on the back? A collaborative environment? Talk about what makes you push through the daily grind in between the big paydays.
"The hearty pat on the back motivates me, or recognition given by management. I love the casual, or more formal, shout-outs for a job well done or going above and beyond. Public recognition will always motivate me."
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
I like the be given a goal, allowed to have regular check in's with feedback from my manager on performance to that goal. I enjoy working cross collaboratively with others on goal attainment.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice. Working towards a goal - especially alongside your team - and receiving regular check-ins by a manager is definitely a great motivator. Are you also motivated by verbal praise or recognition once you reach the goal? Financial incentives like bonuses? Feeling like your wants and needs are being heard? Having access to growth and learning opportunities? Being rewarded with social team events? Make sure to include all of the ways a company might possibly push you to succeed.
Anonymous Answer
As I mentioned previously, targets in general push me to do the best I can. This allows me to compete with myself and my team. Friendly competition with my team pushes me to do better and helps me understand my strengths and weaknesses.
Jaymie's Feedback
Sales is a very competitive and goal-driven career, so these are great motivators to share with the interviewer!
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