The process started with a pre-screen email requiring a written response to 10 full blown interview questions. This was followed by a very casual phone interview. Typical questions for a sales interview, however I was put off by questions about my college days, especially seeing as I graduated 8 years ago. -"Did you have a job during college?" -Me: Yes. Part time waiting tables. -"Why?" -Me: Excuse me? -"Why did you have to work during college?" This did not seem relevant to my current skills or qualifications. I reluctantly engaged the interviewer and passed on the next in person interview. The in person interview was with the sales manager. Very cordial, very typical account manager interview questions, including the "Sell me this pen" routine. There was another exchange regarding my college experience that I found inappropriate for a Fortune 500 company interview. This followed another conversation about my college experience. -"How did you pay for college?" -"Did you take out any student loans?" Again, questions like these strike me as too personal and revealing socio-economic factors that in no way should be used in qualifying candidates for any position. Both interviews involved lots of talk about one's ability to work extended hours, go above and beyond, exceed expectations, and sell aggressively. Pretty typical. I detected little passion for the product or for the field of education in general. I was next told to do a "campus project" consisting of spending a full day on a college campus to interview 15-20 professors about their impressions of Pearson. I was to create a report and presentation to present for final consideration. I was given 3 business days to complete the assignment. Most striking was I was not to identify myself as a Pearson rep, but "as a candidate researching the position for my own benefit." That would be true, if it were not mandated as the next step in the interview process. I was given the names and phone numbers of local reps to interview prior to the campus project. Perhaps not a great idea, as I came away from the conversations with a negative impression of what life would be like as a Sales Rep. Overall the entire interview experience eroded my enthusiasm for working with Pearson, and I withdrew my application.

The interview usually starts with a phone screening to discuss your experience and interest. Next, you may complete a sales assessment or case study to demonstrate your skills. This is often followed by one or more interviews, including behavioral questions and a role-play sales exercise. Finally, if selected, you’ll receive an offer.