To keep in shape, I work in a run at least three times a week. It is a challenge at time when I keep a busy schedule and travel to visit with my reps. During my 3-5 mile runs, I keep my mind busy by thinking of things to keep my mind off thoughts such as wanting to stop and walk, or focus on a pain in my muscle etc. I try to get in my zone of clear thinking. It did take some time for me to reach this point of control as it wasn’t as “in control” during my first runs.
I didn’t know how fast to run, how to place my feet, hold my arms, breathe or hold a pace because I didn’t know what my pace was. I tried going too fast and burned myself out and felt to tired to keep going, so I started walking. I then progressed over time and found my pace, and with that came longer distances and better runs altogether. I did learn many other things along the way, but having a pace was on of the key things that made running so enjoyable. This relates to the sales job interview because it is critical for you to be aware of your pace during the interview.
People who talk too fast give off a nervous impression and when you speak too fast, the person listening might not capture everything you are trying to say. When you pace yourself, you have time to think about what is coming out of your mouth before it is spoken, you sound more confident and professional as well. Not to mention, you might not be out of breath by the time you finish answering a question, just like my jogging example.
To help find your pace, you must do some practice interviews and pay attention to the pace of your answers. It seems that everyone has a smart phone these days, so use the record feature to record your answers and listen to them. With multiple practices, you will hear the tone, pace and volume that you feel comfortable portraying during the interview.
I used to be a fast talker and when I first began my sales career, I also talked way too fast when trying to sell something. I especially fall trap into this when the customer tells me that they only have about 5 more minutes, as I try to squeeze everything I have to say within those five minutes. In my experience in sales as well as in interviews, it is best to slow down, pace yourself and give clear answers in a confident clear tone and pace.
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