Episode 191 - 3 Red Flags to Avoid When Screening Salespeople

Visit http://JohnBlakeAudio.com to Learn How to DOUBLE Your
Enquiry-to-Sale Conversion with The Lead Flow You Already Have.


In episode 191 of the Master Dealmaker Secrets podcast, I share
the three biggest red flags to watch for when reviewing sales
resumes.


Over the last year, I've looked at over a thousand resumes for
sales roles in my company. I've gotten really skilled at
screening candidates efficiently. When reviewing resumes, I watch
for three instant red flags that tell me a person isn't worth
interviewing.


The first red flag is if they aren’t currently in a sales
position. There’s a saying “If you’re not now, you never were.”
Time away from sales causes those muscles to atrophy quickly.
While not an automatic disqualifier, I want candidates selling
now to hit the ground running.


The second red flag is short sales role tenure. As a profit
center, companies work hard to retain top sales talent. If an
applicant left a sales role fast, I probe for details. No
legitimate reason is a warning sign.


The third red flag is exaggerated sales backgrounds. Some stretch
retail or gig experience as formal sales roles. I verify claimed
credentials before relying on them.


Once I screen resumes, interviews assess three key factors.
First, does the person have industry knowledge from working in
the field? Second, are they bought into my vision and culture?
Third, can they sell? Ideal hires check at least two boxes.


I emphasise evaluating cultural fit beyond sales skills. Strong
salespeople can still damage team dynamics. I involve colleagues
from different roles in interviews to get balanced perspectives.


Everyone notices different things. Extra observers provide
insights I may miss. I use a structured process with specific
questions to thoroughly assess candidates.


In the last year, I’ve learned key lessons hiring over 10
salespeople. Careful resume vetting, interviews, and assessments
are crucial to avoid costly hiring mistakes. I want to share my
experience to help you build world-class sales teams.


Listen to this episode and be aware of these red flags when
hiring new salespeople. You’ll have the tools to properly
evaluate your candidates and make the best decision for your
business.


To DOUBLE your lead-to-sale CONVERSION with the leads you already
have, go to http://JohnBlakeAudio.com for his exclusive, free,
no-fluff, audio training and companion PDF guide.
Inside you’ll get word-for-word email follow-up templates, phone
scripts, and more that you can put to use today.