When you ask what makes a good salesperson stay with an employer, salary and commission matter of course. But I don’t think it’s usually the whole story.

In an interview, there’s a fine line between being honest and being overly negative about previous employers. The interviewer knows you’re looking for a new role for a reason.

Let’s get to the heart of what truly counts. Employers are on the lookout for a few fundamental qualities that set successful field sales professionals apart.

It used to be that a strong salary package and a recognised brand did most of the heavy lifting. Today, candidates dig much deeper.

Good people don’t just want a payslip every month. They want to know they’re making a difference.
Sometimes that’s a simple thank you, or recognition for a job well done.

Over the years, so many of the placements we’ve made have started with exactly the same sentence:

“No I’m not actively looking…”

And that’s often why those conversations are the best.

A great interview is a two-way process. It’s not just about whether you’re right for the role — it’s about whether the role is right for you.

Before you go to market, make sure you’re crystal clear on what you’re looking for and what truly matters.

Clarity makes all the difference — and the best recruitment strategy is having everyone internally on the same page and aligned with what the business actually needs.

Those though that embrace AI will replace those that don’t. Despite all the changes in technology and new sales tools, you can’t replace the ability to build strong long-term relationships.