Sales Manager interview - Job Hunting Advice
Monday, October 9, 2006 at 02:06PM Reader Question:
I was contacted by an internal recruiter for a sales position. Upon speaking he realized that I was over qualified for the position BUT he was aware that the Sales Manager position had just opened. He asked me to go to the interview. I agreed as he convinced me that he would speak with the hiring manager prior to my interview. The hiring manager was unaware that I was there for the manager’s slot and even informed me that he was going to interview 2 internal sales reps for the slot. My resume clearly stated that I have the qualifications for the manager position. How do I proceed now
that the interview is finished, other than expressing my interest in a follow up thank you letter, which I have already done?
Recruiter Reponse:
Very interesting situation you found yourself in, however, not uncommon, believe it or not. More and more I see a lack of communication internally which leads to disappointing interviews. I have to imagine you left with a bad taste in your mouth and wondering…What just happened here?
I guess the answer to your question is pretty simple. If you are interested in the managers role, than clearly state that. I am assuming you have no interest in a rep. role. Don’t pretend to be interested in a rep. role because you think you might have a shot at the manager role. What you don’t want to do is lead them on if you are not interested. More importantly don’t waste your valuable time; it is better spent selling where you are currently working. Hope this helps.
Mike Magnotta
The SearchLogix Group
Gina O'Leary, General Manager
Reader follow-up:
Knowing that my qualifications are exactly what the sales manager position is calling for, I will e-mail the hiring manager and advise him of your advice. I absolutely did NOT make my answer clear when asked if I was interested in the Account Manager slot yet knew that I did not want that position.
Thanks again Mike. It is very much appreciated.
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