Turn Down Job Offers, Not Job Interviews

Looking for a sales job is similar to trying to find the perfect pair of running sneakers. 

As a runner, you look for the shoe that has the perfect arch, adequate support, and good style.  You understand that one size does not fit all. Some people may be more lenient one way or another, and may end up compromising style for comfort, or comfort for style, but it all comes down to one thing which is does the shoe fit and will it help me perform better?  And, in order to know, you have to try on more than one pair – sometimes dozens until you find a brand and style that works for you.  As you try on different brands and styles to help you perform at a high level, you take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each sneaker and ultimately make an educated decision.

When it comes to looking for a sales job, most people have certain expectations and criteria in mind. Some of the things job seekers consider when looking for a new job are:

• Different companies and brands
• Different industries (software, technology, finance, retail)
• A strong work-life balance
• A reasonable commute
• A competitive salary
• Great benefits (401k, PTO, health insurance)
• A strong and supportive management team
• Opportunity for growth

All of the above are important when considering a new job, and rarely can you gather all of this from a job description. This is a similar dilemma job seekers face when hiring managers base their hiring decision solely off the resume. There is more to a person than a piece of paper.

Companies have been getting better at having a company page on their website that addresses the culture to give job seekers more of an inside look. However, they don’t answer the hard-hitting questions you may have that can only be answered by talking to a person. And although websites, like Glassdoor, have emerged that allow current employees and past employees of companies to review their experiences anonymously, it should not be the determining factor in whether or not you should interview for a position.

*Keep in mind that people are more likely to share a negative experience or complaint, rather than a positive one.

The job search can be time-consuming, overwhelming and nerve racking, but when you are invited in for an interview, you should take the time to speak with someone to further qualify the job opportunity. One of the biggest mistakes you can make that can actually hurt your job search is treating a job interview like a job offer. You can turn down job offers, but you should not turn down job interviews before educating yourself more on the company and job opportunity.

When it comes to an interview, there is nothing lost, and everything gained.  You come out knowing more about the company, position, roles, requirements, day-to-day operations, plans for growth, and who you’ll be working with. You come out knowing far more than you could ever know by just reading a job description on paper. You are limiting your own options and closing yourself off to what could be a great new opportunity.  If you take the time to go to interviews and evaluate the positives as well as the drawbacks, you will be more successful, productive, and comfortable in the job offer you end up accepting.  You will be happy with your decision knowing that you took the time to choose what was best for you.

{Related Article: Top 10 Interview Questions Sales Managers Ask} 

When you interview with different companies you learn more about yourself and what’s important in your career and life. By speaking to real people at the company, asking qualifying questions, you will be able to determine if a company is a good or bad move for you. After interviewing you will feel more comfortable with the decision you make.  Remember, not every interview will yield a job offer but you won’t know unless you speak with the hiring manager. It’s okay to turn down job offers if the career move doesn’t make sense, but you won’t know until you go in for an interview. 

Click here to watch this video on how to prepare for a sales interview