Career Development Program - Internal Wholesaler

Recruiter called for phone interview, they fill each position in the company, they are not investment experts, they are only looking to see that you are likeable, have a pulse on the industry and can function in a high pressure environment. Be talkative and friendly and they will bring you in for a face to face interview.

After the phone interview, you'll do a personality test, they're looking for a specific type of personality. For sales, someone who is driven and competitive, sets ambitious goals and walking on the line of confident without being cocky and arrogant. There was also a wonderlic assessment, not a big deal, very straightforward.

The in person interview was three steps. First with your recruiter. They already have your group interview and presentation scheduled for later with sales desk management, the point of the one on one with the recruiter is for them to prep you for what's about to happen, it you're not prepared for the later interviews; it's downright embarrassing, you and the recruiter look bad, they want you to succeed. They tell you what to expect, you run through talking points and make tweaks.

Recruiter brings you onto the sales floor. First you sit with interns in the training program. They want to see how you act with strangers. In about 15 minutes, they come and grab you for the interview with sales management. You introduce yourself, shake hands and them immediately go into a presentation that may as well be called "Why I am the best person for the job" They're gauging your presentation skills and your sales pitch. Lay it out with three bullet points, i'm the best because A, B and C. Give three stories to support those three reasons. Ask them an easy question "Would you agree that this industry is competitive and you need A, B and C to make it?" Then open it up for questions, this is where it turns into a more traditional interview.

They will ask you why you want to be here, have an excellent reason, they will not waste their time if you can't tell them your reason. Know what's going on in today's world, the job revolves around this, and be conversational; your job requires people skills.

Steer the conversation, when you feel all the questions winding down, reiterate; Here is why I want to be here, you agreed that the ideal candidate needs A, B and C, i've demonstrated A,B and C and then the most important part. Close by asking for the job, rarely will they give it to you on the spot, they want to make sure you're not afraid to ask for what you want.

Be cool, confident and educated and you will receive the position. Another thing, dress sharp, image is huge here. Do not go into the interview wearing an ill fitting, off the rack JOS. A Banks suit. Make sure the suit fits well, polish your shoes, nice watch, match the belt to the shoes.