Landing a sales role involves more than just a stellar resume; it's about understanding the intricacies of the recruitment process. Alecia Snedeker, an EchoStar talent acquisition coordinator, provides valuable insights into the candidate journey, offering you a roadmap to success.
The Application and Questionnaire: Your First Impression
The journey begins with the application, often initiated by recruiters reaching out to candidates on Indeed or LinkedIn. Alecia emphasizes the importance of swift action. "Just getting your application completed as soon as possible is really important," she advises. "And making sure that your resume is up to date and included when you submit your application is really helpful."
Following the application, candidates will have to complete a questionnaire. "The faster you get that taken care of as far as the resume, application and questionnaire, the quicker we can get you in for a phone screen," Alecia explains.
The Phone Screen: Energy and Professionalism
The phone screen is the next crucial step. "Because you will be on camera, I would highly suggest dressing professionally," Alecia recommends. Beyond appearance, candidates should research the role and review the job description. "Many candidates mistakenly believe that our roles are remote, however, most of our roles are on-site," she notes, highlighting the importance of attention to detail.
Alecia also reinforces the importance of bringing energy and excitement to the interview, as echoed by other recruiters.
The Hiring Manager Interview: Punctuality and Preparation
If successful in the phone screen, candidates move on to an on-site interview with the hiring manager. "I would say for preparation, making sure that whenever you go on-site that again you're professionally dressed and prepared to discuss the role," Alecia advises.
Punctuality is paramount. "Make sure that whatever date you select, you are prepared to attend," she explains. "To put your best foot forward, you should make sure that whatever date and time you select for your interview you're able to attend and be prepared."
“Your interview with the hiring manager is your opportunity to sell your skills and learn more about the team you could be joining. I would say for preparation, making sure that whenever you go on-site that again you're professionally dressed and prepared to discuss the role is essential to a successful interview."
— Alecia Snedeker, Talent Acquisition Coordinator
Offers: Officially Joining the Team
If the hiring team decides to proceed, candidates will receive a conditional offer, contingent on a background check. "Most of our candidates sign right away," Alecia adds.
For those candidates that are not selected, they are referred back to the career site to search for other opportunities that fit their skillset and are eligible to reapply for that role in six months.
Onboarding and Training: Setting the Stage for Success
Once the conditional offer is accepted, candidates are connected with the onboarding team. "The faster the offer is accepted, the quicker the onboarding team can get the next steps started," Alecia explains. "Backgrounds usually take about three to five business days."
Training is a crucial component of the onboarding process, including immersive computer-based modules, instructor-led sessions, hands-on activities, role-play and call shadowing. "You’re going to start taking phone calls the first week into training. It's a very fast-paced environment where you’ll get real experience with guidance and support from the training team." We also offer a robust mentorship program to support new hire onboarding.
"Training for sales and retention roles is four weeks for sales and then five weeks for retention. You’re going to start taking phone calls the first week into training. It's a very fast-paced environment where you’ll get real experience with guidance and support from the training team."
— Alecia Snedeker, Talent Acquisition Coordinator
Alecia’s Key Takeaways for Candidates:
Act Quickly: Be communicative, complete the application and fill out the questionnaire promptly.
Be Prepared: Research the role, review the job description and dress professionally.
Show Enthusiasm: Bring energy and excitement to the phone screen and interview.
Be Punctual: Honor scheduled interview times to avoid reschedules.
Understand the Process: Be aware of the offer, background check and onboarding timelines.
By understanding the sales recruitment process and adhering to these tips, you can increase your chances of success and embark on a rewarding career in sales.
