If you’ve been declined for a sales job, it may be helpful to understand the reasoning behind the decision. Recruiters have a variety of reasons for declining job applicants. The following are some of the most common reasons sales recruiters may turn down your application.
Being under-qualified is one of the most common reasons for a recruiter to decline your application. If you don’t have much experience in sales, you may want to consider applying for entry-level sales positions. Many companies are willing to train entry-level sales employees. It is also a good idea to indicate any experience in other customer service fields, sports and clubs, or entrepreneurial endeavors since you may be able to transfer your skills to a sales position.
If you have experience in sales and your application is still turned down, you should call the recruiter and ask for feedback. The recruiter may be able to tell you what qualities the company is looking for in a candidate. Most times recruiters seek self-motivated sales candidates with a strong work ethic who are not afraid of rejection. If you don’t have industry experience but are willing to learn and have a strong work ethic, you may want to mention these qualities to the recruiter.
Additionally, some sales jobs may require specific experience or knowledge in the field. For example, if you’re applying for a pharmaceutical sales position, the recruiter may decline your application if you don’t have a background in the medical field. In this case, you should see if there are lower level opportunities you may be qualified for with the ability to work your way up.
Sales Recruiters may also decline your application if they don’t think you’re a good cultural fit for the company. Every company has a different culture and core values, and you must find a company where you fit in. If this is not aligned, you will not be set up for long term success. To avoid this, do your research on the company before you apply. Make sure that the company’s culture is a good fit for you and make sure to emphasize the similarities to the recruiter.
Finally, one of the first things a recruiter or company will look at is your overall job tenure. If you have a history of job hopping, holding several jobs in a short period, it may give the impression that you are not reliable. Job recruiters may also view job hopping as a sign that you are not committed to your work. Honesty on your application and including any gaps in employment is key, but make sure to highlight why you moved to help push your application forward.