I am advising a company that is about to launch a new product. The entrepreneurs are ‘bootstrapping’ the business, meaning they are paying for the development out of their own pockets. It is a big idea and I am sure they will make it. They are to the point where they need sales reps.
Anyway, I sat in when they were interviewing a new sales rep candidate. He was a nice young sales rep, somewhat light on experience, but still certainly capable of making great money selling this company’s product even though it is only commission only for now.
He agreed with the company’s product idea, was even sure of its success. But, he said, “You know, since my unemployment benefits have been extended, there is no rush for me to get a job. I am going to wait until I find one that pays me a salary plus the commission.”
I hope that job is there waiting for him ( I told him to check out www.linkup.com) when his benefits run out. Hopefully, by that time, we will have a group of sales reps making great money, commission only.
By the way, did you know that CraigsList won’t allow commission only jobs to be posted on their job site? What’s up with THAT? They post ads by child predators, killers and prostitutes…but have decided to draw the line on commission-only jobs?? Now, that’s funny.








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Indeed! Craigslist is crazylist.
I am surprised at the response from the young man. There is some lack of self confidence there I think.
I have had Sales Reps who had fought for no ceiling commissions when we tried to offer packages merging the two. It is a strange world.
I think you are right, Rummy, it is a matter of confidence perhaps. Or, they have not yet made that important connecton between personal effort, success and financial rewards? Or, maybe they just want to be paid for their “work” without regard to actual results.
Or, it may well be the way that we are presenting the opportunity itself. All are possible and I can help control the latter. Got to keep trying, because someone will understand the potential with it.
Thanks always for your comment and insights.
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