Smartly Account Manager Interview Questions
& Process

My experience was great, Smartly's interview process is really unique and I enjoyed it! It helped me learn more about the company and culture. I met around 3 different people and they were all very nice and seemed like great people to work with. I couldn't finish the interview process because I got another offer.

The interview was tougher than usual, but in a good way, making me really think about my skills and how I work with clients. There were about 5 stages: first, a quick chat with HR, then an interview with the hiring manager, followed by one with the head of onboarding. After that, I had an interview with the hiring manager’s sales coworker, which they mentioned wasn't typical but was added for me. Lastly, I had a final presentation for the hiring manager. Even with the many steps, it was all super clear and organized. I always knew what was next, who I'd be talking to, and how to get ready. That transparency was a big help.

There were 5 steps in the interview process. Many people find it difficult, but I thought it was easy since you get clear instructions for each step. Just take your time and you will get through. I made it to step 4. Step 4 (sales demo) is a little bit tricky, not difficult, but the way it's programmed and the expectations from Smartly need to be understood before starting. Everyone is expected to act like the book they provide, regardless of your experience. For example, a client is interested in your solution via your cold email and has no idea how you can help, and hopes you convince them to start a trial. They expect you to gather information and qualify needs on-site, and match each need to a product feature to win the deal. HOWEVER, in reality, this won't work. From my past experience, no client will meet you without knowing who you are and what you offer, and why you're different. Once a client agrees to meet, they must know what you do and offer, and you better quickly explain why you're different, your biggest advantage, and by how much. If you don't do it their way, you fail. This is not a sales simulation, it's a show, and you're expected to act exactly the way and in the order they want to see. Also, for anyone doing sales, this is not a science formula; when it comes to people skills, it's about making sense, don't let scripts hold you back. So, for whoever is about to take step 4, take my advice: pretend you're an intern, do what they expect to see, don't use your previous experiences. I personally think Smartly is a good company doing something different and valuable, but step 4 makes no sense, especially for business roles.