Create a panel or committee to handle the hiring process. Ensure the panel includes the hiring manager, a representative from the human resources department and a representative from the sales department. The sales-department rep can shed light on the qualities needed in an effective sales person. Also include a marketing representative to assist in the branding of the company through the hiring process.
Determine the test criterion by coming up with questions that fulfill the requirements of a salesperson's job. Carefully consider the company's image when choosing the questions to be included in the test; note that, whether or not the applicants pass the test, they're still prospective customers. Ensure that the questions are both respectful to the applicant and informative about the company.
Choose whether the candidates will take the test online or on the premises under supervision. It's advisable that the candidates take the test under supervision to discourage cheating.
Research the company both online and offline. Ensure you know all there is to know about the company that's relevant to the job you're applying for. If applicable, ask around about the kind of products it deals in and the performance of these products. Knowing a company's details provides insight into its hiring criteria.
Visit websites, such as Job Test Prep, that provide you with tips on how to successfully answer questions on personality tests. Where available, take the sample test (see Resources), which will give you a general idea of the type of questions to expect.
Practice with a friend by role-playing. Personality tests can either be written or verbal. Let your friend take up the role of an interviewer and ask you a couple of questions that relate to a sales job. You might borrow some of the questions from the sites you visited.