That Silly Interview Question From The Wolf of Wall Street: “Sell Me This Pen.”

In collaboration with Michael McKown

The "Sell me this pen" question has become a staple in job interviews, particularly for sales positions, to test a candidate's sales acumen, creativity, and ability to think on their feet. Here are sixteen varied responses designed to showcase different approaches to this classic challenge:

1. The Feature-Driven Approach: "This pen is not just any writing instrument; it's engineered for precision with a fine tip that ensures your writing is as sharp as your ideas. Its ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue, making it perfect for long meetings. Plus, the quick-drying ink prevents smudges, ensuring your notes are always clean and professional."

2. The Emotional Connection: "Imagine the satisfaction of signing your next big deal with this pen. It's more than a tool; it's a symbol of achievement. Every time you use this pen, you'll feel the weight of success in your hand, a constant reminder of what you're capable of achieving."

3. The Storyteller's Pitch: "Let me tell you about a CEO who used this exact pen to sign a groundbreaking deal. He said it was like having luck on his side. This pen might just be what you need to write your next chapter of success."

4. The Urgency Creator: "You're going to need a pen that lasts through all your meetings this week, right? This one has a unique ink reservoir that ensures it won't run out when you're in the middle of a crucial negotiation. It's the reliability you need, right now."

5. The Problem Solver: "How often do you find yourself scrambling for a pen that works when you need to jot down a sudden idea or note? This pen has a unique retractable mechanism that ensures it's ready to use at a moment's notice, solving that problem for you."

6. The Value Proposition: "Consider this: you're investing in quality. This pen might seem pricier, but its longevity and smooth writing experience mean you won't be buying another pen anytime soon. It's not just a purchase; it's an investment in efficiency."

7. The Customization Angle: "Notice the sleek design? We can customize this pen with your company logo, making it not just a tool but a walking advertisement for your business. It's about making every interaction memorable."

8. The Comparative Approach: "Compared to the pen you're holding now, this one offers better grip, smoother ink flow, and a stylish look that elevates your professional image. Why settle for less when you can stand out?"

9. The Testimonial: "I recently convinced a client to switch to this pen, and he told me it was the best decision he made for his productivity. He writes faster, clearer, and feels more professional every time he uses it. Could this be your experience too?"

10. The Personal Touch: "Let's do a quick test. Write your name with this pen. See how it feels? It's like the pen was made for you. Now, imagine this feeling every time you sign off on a project or make notes. This isn't just a pen; it's your personal writing companion."

11. The Scarcity Approach: "This pen isn't just any pen; it's from a limited edition series. Only a select few will have the chance to own one, making it not just a tool but a collector's item. Imagine the exclusivity of signing your documents with something so unique."

12. The Practical Demonstration: "Let me show you something. Here's a piece of paper; try writing with this pen. Notice how the ink glides effortlessly, leaving no skips or blots. Now, imagine never having to worry about your pen failing you during a critical moment. This pen ensures your thoughts are always expressed perfectly."

13. The Quality Assurance Pitch: "In today's fast-paced world, reliability is key. This pen is made from premium materials, designed to withstand the rigors of your daily use. It's not just about writing; it's about peace of mind. You know with this pen, every line you draw or word you write will be as intended."

14. The Lifestyle Integration: "Think about your desk setup. This pen isn't just functional; it's designed to match your aesthetic. It complements any workspace, adding a touch of elegance and professionalism. It's not just a pen; it's a statement about your taste and attention to detail."

15. The Psychological Appeal: "Every time you pick up this pen, you're reminded of your potential to achieve great things. It's lightweight, yet it feels substantial in your hand, boosting your confidence. It's like a psychological trigger for productivity and success. Why settle for less when you can have a tool that helps you perform at your best?"

And maybe the best of all:

16. The Impatient Approach: "You don't need me to sell you this pen; you've already bought into the concept by asking me to sell it to you. But if you insist, here's the deal: This pen is the key to unlocking your inner Leonardo da Vinci or, at the very least, ensuring your grocery lists look like works of art. And the best part? You're not buying a pen; you're investing in the illusion that all your ideas are brilliant. Now, shall we sign the contract for this masterpiece, or do you need a pen for that?"

Each of these responses aims to connect with the interviewer on a different level, whether by invoking a sense of exclusivity, demonstrating product reliability, aligning the pen with the user's lifestyle, or tapping into psychological benefits. The art of selling this pen lies in making it more than just an item for writing; it becomes an enhancer of one's professional identity, efficiency, or even personal success.

Who am I? The name is Michael McKown. I’m the co-founder and president of Ghostwriters Central, Inc. Since 2002, we’ve been providing high-level professional writing services to clients worldwide. Our primary areas of work are book manuscripts, screenplays and speeches. If you need expert help from a qualified wordsmith, all you need to do is click the link. Tell us how we can help. You won’t even need to buy a pen. Thanks for reading!