Words you choose…

Last week, I was having coffee with a client who had interviewed a potential salesperson for a newly created role within the organization. The client is the type of person you warm up to quickly and feel comfortable to speak with. He purposely tries to get the candidate comfortable to gain an idea of how they handle themselves in typical sales situations. During the interview the potential salesperson referred to the client’s current distributor as a “bunch of a-holes” and immediately dismissed himself as someone the client would have represent the company. We need to remember that during an interview, our words we use are as important as wearing a tie, being prepared and on time. At no time should we refer to a hiring manager’s customers in a derogatory term as it ultimately is slapping the face of the company you are trying to go to work for. The distributor may indeed be less than desirable but don’t get so comfortable in your own skin to point out blemishes in others during an interview. Your opinions should be kept in context to what is being asked and clear of negative commentary about a customer, former employer or anyone for that matter. In a market with few jobs and few opportunities, the interviewing candidate must market him/herself as being the best as companies are looking for the best and most talented staff.