3 Common Sales Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
Sales roles are known for being competitive, direct, and insight driven. Hiring managers want proof that you can sell. Not just a product, but yourself.
This blog breaks down three of the most common sales interview questions, why they’re asked, and how to answer them with structure, confidence, and relevance. Let’s help you stand out and get that job.
1. What does your daily schedule look like in your current role?
This is one of the most common sales interview questions, designed to give the interviewer a glimpse into how you manage your time, what your priorities are, and how closely your responsibilities align with the role you’ve applied for.
How to answer this sales interview question
Start by reviewing the job description and highlighting the key skills or responsibilities they’re looking for. Then:
Step 1: Identify where your current role overlaps with the new one
Step 2: Pick 2–3 core tasks you do each day that demonstrate these overlaps
Step 3: Explain how you approach them, why they matter, and what outcomes they lead to
Step 4: Keep it structured and concise – the STAR method works well here (we have an article on this too)
Top Tip: Focus on what’s relevant, not everything. Prioritise quality over quantity in your answer.
Variations of this question
Tell me about a typical day in your role
What are your key responsibilities at work?
What do you do after work / in your free time?
No matter the phrasing, tie your answer back to the sales skills and daily challenges that prove you’re ready for this next step.
2. How would you handle a customer complaint?
Handling objections and difficult situations is part and parcel of sales. This is one of those sales interview questions where employers are looking for calm, structure, and strong communication skills.
You’re not just solving a problem; you’re protecting the customer relationship and brand reputation.
How to answer this sales interview question
Use a step-by-step format to show your logic and composure:
Step 1: Listen actively
Explain how you listen without interrupting or jumping to conclusions. Mention empathy and patience.
Step 2: Gather facts
Describe how you ask open questions to understand the full picture and avoid assumptions.
Step 3: Agree on a solution
Talk about how you resolve the issue collaboratively and keep all parties informed.
Step 4: Follow through
Finish by showing you kept your word and reflect on the outcome.
Top Tip: Use a real example if you can. It shows how you apply these skills under pressure.
Variations of this question
How do you manage difficult customers?
What’s your approach to complaints or objections?
Tell me about a time you turned a negative experience into a positive one.
3. How is your experience relevant to this role?
This is one of the most direct sales interview questions you’ll get. It’s your moment to shine. Interviewers want to hear how your previous roles have prepared you for success in this one.
It’s all about relevance. Show that you’ve done the groundwork and you’re ready to step up.
How to answer this sales interview question
Step 1: Break down the job description and look for repeated themes (skills, responsibilities, KPIs)
Step 2: Choose examples from your previous roles that match those themes
Step 3: Use metrics to show impact (sales targets hit, pipelines built, clients retained)
Step 4: Explain how those experiences shaped your approach and career goals
Top Tip: Show progression. Talk about where you started, what you’ve learnt, and how that’s led you to this point.
Variations of this question
Why should we hire you for this role?
What makes you a good fit for this team?
Tell me about your most relevant experience
Final Thoughts
Most sales interview questions are there for one reason: to see how well your skills and mindset fit the role.
Whether it’s your daily routine, handling pressure, or linking past experience to future success – every answer is a chance to sell yourself.
The key? Preparation. Know the job description, structure your responses, and back everything up with examples.
Need help preparing for a sales interview or finding your next sales role?
Speak to our team of recruitment experts – we’re here to help you get hired, and stay hired.
And if you’re ready to put what you learnt to the test, let’s get you an interview arranged… Check out our current vacancies.