Craig Emslie Breaks Down How to Hire 8-Figure Sales Experts for Your Business



Hiring top-tier sales talent can be the difference between steady growth and explosive success. According to Craig Emslie, a respected sales strategist and business advisor, businesses that generate eight figures don’t rely on average salespeople. They hire sales experts who understand systems, strategy, and long-term value creation. In this breakdown, Emslie explains how companies can identify, attract, and retain elite sales professionals who consistently deliver high-level results.

Understanding What an 8-Figure Sales Expert Really Is

An eight-figure sales expert is not just someone who closes deals. Craig Emslie emphasizes that true high-level sales professionals think beyond quotas. They understand buyer psychology, long sales cycles, and revenue forecasting. These individuals have experience managing complex deals, building trust with high-value clients, and aligning sales efforts with overall business goals.

Rather than focusing only on commissions, they care about outcomes, brand reputation, and sustainable growth.

Define the Role Before You Start Hiring

One of the most common hiring mistakes businesses make is being vague about expectations. Craig Emslie advises companies to clearly define what success looks like before posting a job opening. This includes identifying the type of clients the sales expert will handle, the average deal size, and the sales cycle length.

When expectations are clear, it becomes easier to attract candidates who already have experience in similar environments and can contribute quickly.

Look for Proven Systems, Not Just Big Numbers

While impressive revenue figures can catch attention, Emslie warns against hiring solely based on past earnings. Instead, business leaders should ask candidates to explain how they achieved those results. Top sales experts can clearly describe their process, including lead qualification, objection handling, follow-ups, and closing strategies.

This systems-based thinking shows that their success is repeatable, not accidental.

Prioritize Strategic Thinking and Communication Skills

Craig Emslie highlights that eight-figure sales professionals are strong communicators who can simplify complex ideas. They know how to listen more than they talk and tailor their approach to different decision-makers. Strategic thinking allows them to position products or services as solutions rather than pitches.

These skills are especially important when selling high-ticket offerings where trust and credibility matter more than urgency tactics.

Hire for Cultural Fit and Leadership Potential

High-level sales experts often influence more than just revenue. Emslie explains that the right hire can elevate the entire sales team by setting standards, mentoring others, and improving internal processes. That’s why cultural fit is critical.

Businesses should look for candidates who align with company values, collaborate well with marketing and leadership teams, and show a willingness to lead by example.

Offer the Right Incentives to Attract Elite Talent

Top sales professionals are selective about where they work. Craig Emslie notes that competitive compensation is important, but it’s not just about money. Clear growth opportunities, autonomy, and access to quality leads all play a role in attracting elite talent.

Providing transparency around commission structures and long-term incentives helps build trust from the start.

Build a Strong Onboarding and Support System

Even the best sales experts need the right support to succeed. Emslie stresses the importance of proper onboarding, clear messaging, and access to data and tools. When sales professionals understand the product deeply and have alignment with leadership, they can perform at their highest level.

A strong support system also reduces turnover and maximizes return on investment.

Final Thoughts on Hiring 8-Figure Sales Experts

Craig Emslie’s approach to hiring eight-figure sales experts focuses on clarity, strategy, and long-term thinking. By defining roles clearly, prioritizing systems over hype, and supporting top talent properly, businesses can build sales teams that drive consistent, scalable growth.

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