Are you tired of traditional recruiting methods that don't seem to work for finding top-performing salespeople?
It's time to shake things up and think outside of the box. With Millennials and Gen Z not as interested in traditional sales roles, relying on hiring retreads from your competition is no longer a viable option.
It's time to get a little crazy in your search for your next sales superstar.
Start your search by looking into unusual and different communities and industries. One place to look is the online gaming communities. Gamers possess strong competitive and strategic skills that translate perfectly to a sales role. They have the drive to win and the ability to think strategically, which are both essential qualities for success in sales.
Ready to take on Halo or attend an eSport tournament? You might be surprised at the talent you find there.
Another unconventional place to look for sales talent is crowdfunding platforms. Individuals who can successfully fundraise on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo have persuasive marketing skills that are invaluable. They know how to market a product and how to convince others to invest in it, which are both essential skills for sales.
Local bars, clubs, and restaurants are also a great place to find sales talent. Waiters and bartenders are natural salespeople. They are outgoing, personable, and know how to offer solutions that customers will love. They are experts at reading people and understanding their needs - both key skills for success in sales.
A great bartender or waiter can get you to spend more money than you were planning!
Retail sales is another area to consider when looking for sales talent. While it may be rare these days, a trip to your local mall, boutique, or department store can be a goldmine for sales talent. The next time you have an incredible shopping experience, take note of the salesperson who made it happen. They may have the drive, personality, and skills to excel in a sales role.
Sports teams and leagues are also a great place to find sales talent. Athletes and sports enthusiasts possess the drive and tenacity that are essential for success in sales. They are competitive and know how to push through adversity, which are both key qualities for success in sales. Connecting with them through local teams and leagues is a unique way to find potential candidates.
And for a bonus idea, don't just stick to traditional job listing platforms. Take to social media and make your job openings stand out with funny, witty, and even outlandish posts on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. In today's cluttered job market, you need to break through the noise to get candidates' attention.
It's time to stop playing it safe and start taking risks in your search for sales talent. Get a little wild, and you'll find your next superstar in no time. Don't limit yourself to traditional recruiting methods; think outside of the box and explore unconventional places to find sales talent. Online gaming communities, crowdfunding platforms, local bars and restaurants, retail sales, sports teams and leagues, and social media are just a few examples of where you can find your next sales superstar.
Remember, finding top-performing salespeople is not easy, but it's essential for the growth and success of your business. By thinking creatively and looking for sales talent in new and unique places, you'll be able to identify and attract the best salespeople for your company.
So, be brave and adventurous, and start searching for your next sales superstar today.
*This article was originally featured in the new Talent Magazine.