Intermediatebehavioral STAR
Tell me about a time you coached an underperforming sales rep using the STAR method. What did you do, and how did performance change?
Sales Manager
General

Sample Answer

Situation: One rep was achieving only 55% of quota for two consecutive quarters and had low activity metrics. Task: My goal was to lift the rep to at least 90% of quota within one quarter. Action: I conducted a joint call calibration, reviewed CRM activity, and identified skill gaps in prospect qualification and closing. I created a targeted performance plan with weekly KPIs: 25 calls/day, five qualified meetings/week, and two demo presentations. I shadowed calls twice weekly, provided scripted objection responses, and ran role-plays. I also synchronized the rep’s territory plan with high-propensity accounts and implemented daily standups for accountability. Result: After three months the rep reached 98% of quarterly quota, increased qualified meetings by 220%, improved close rate from 8% to 16%, and contributed $210K in new bookings. Leadership noted improved team morale and repeatable coaching framework.

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