Andrew O'Connell

I have been interviewing for a lot of sales positions recently.  No matter the industry, the interviewer usually asks something along the lines of what strengths, qualities, or characteristics do I possess that make me a good salesperson.  After many interviews, research, and my own experiences in sales, I have decided to compile a list that I believe would be useful for others to think about if they were interviewing for similar roles.  Additionally, I believe that these assets could also be applied to other client facing roles in regard to marketing, communications, as well as advertising.

Here are my top three qualities that make me a good salesperson, or rather, what every salesperson should possess:

#1: Honesty

First and foremost, every salesperson needs to establish trust and rapport with their potential client.  I believe that honesty is the best way to make a sale, the buyer must trust the salesperson in order for the salesperson to be successful.

#2: Adaptability

In sales, extenuating circumstances may pop-up, making it crucial for the salesperson to be able to navigate the waters and modify their sales approach.  Although there can be a proven method to sales, each client will be different and needs to be approached with research and preparedness so that the presentation can be tailored to fit each client.  Additionally, the salesperson cannot always know what the client will need, but with quick thinking they can find a solution.

#3: Persistence

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, is persistence.  Not every lead will yield a sale, and not every client will say yes.  However, it is imperative for the salesperson to be persistent in their sales approach.  Whether it is following up with a potential client, or calling the 11^th lead after 10 no’s, the salesperson needs to keep moving forward and not be hung up on what may seem like a missed opportunity.  Furthermore, the salesperson needs to ask for the close. If they do not ask, they will not receive it.

Are your top three qualities different?  Let me know in the comments!