I interviewed for a position in the Los Angeles area. I have over 13 years of professional sales experience. I will add that every year has been successful and I have always exceeding my sales goals.
The first step was a telephone interview. Spoke with the hiring manager and everything went well. I was invited for a face to face.
At the face to face, it was me, the hiring manager and the HR Director The HR Dir. was on the phone ask questions, as well as the hiring manager who was there in person. My recruiter I might add set up this opportunity.
I thought the interview could not have gone more perfect. Answered all the questions in detail. Even the hiring manager said, "It is great that you are answering with detail.... we like that"
At the end of the interview, I closed them. I asked " is there any reason why you can't make an offer to me today” It looked like the hiring manager loved the question. I was showing how I would close in the field during a sales call. The HR Director jumps in and says "Yes.... there is a reason. We have to go through the process, and I will not let her make an offer to you today." I thought….fair enough, but since this is a sales interview, I will have to close you both
The next close was " You said that you thought I would be a good fit, you like this and that…yada –yada- yada. Is there any reason why you can't invite me to the next interview?" I guess that was too much for them. Actually I should say the HR Director, because I did not get the next interview.
My recruiter calls me and said they are going to pass on you. When I asked why, he said that they felt I was too aggressive.
Now days you have to be aggressive. Plus, I only closed them twice.
It is my opinion, that the hiring manager wanted me on board, but the HR Dir killed the deal.
I also see why they are having trouble filling the territory with a professional rep. It appears they (The HR Director) don’t want a real sales person in the role.
What really sucks is I wanted that position too. I know I would have done well there. The hiring manager seemed like a good person to work for as well.
Back to the drawing board!