This was a very long interview process, BUT ITS WORTH IT. I had a phone screening about a week after I applied, the following week I had a face-face with the sales manager and sales supervisor. After that I was given two assignments to complete and do power points on the field survey I did (go to 10 different businesses and ask them about their uniforms) and packet that they gave me to read about how to become a top seller there. Once I reported that I completed the assignments I had another interview with the regional sales manager and had to bring in at least 3 references. After that all that was left was a drug screen and background check. It seems like a long process but it really does prepare you for the job. You do jump through a lot of hoops but in that industry they need to know who's serious about the position and about excelling at the job and you need to know if you can handle the job.

The interview process was extensive and involved multiple stages. I first interviewed with a recruiter, followed by a virtual interview with the sales manager. That was then followed by an in person interview with the sales manager and the plant GM, which included delivering a PowerPoint presentation. After that, I completed a final interview with the regional sales manager via Teams. Approximately 30 minutes after the final interview, the recruiter called to express strong enthusiasm about extending an offer and mentioned awareness that I had another offer pending. I was transparent about the competing offer from a direct competitor and was told the sales manager would follow up the next day. During that follow up call, the offer was withdrawn, with the explanation that they could not come close to the competing compensation. There was no opportunity for discussion or negotiation, which was surprising given the role was a sales position and the job posting referenced competitive pay. Overall, the process took approximately two weeks and required me to take time off work to attend the in person interview. Given the outcome, the time investment did not feel respected. Based on my experience, I would recommend clarifying compensation alignment earlier in the process to avoid similar situations for future candidates. It seems like their concern is not with quality sales reps. It's with who they can pay the lowest amount.