During my first real job interview, immediately after college I was asked a series of interview questions for a recruiting and sales position. The meeting was with the owner of the franchise who also had a tremendous track record as a successful salesperson. However, one question has stayed with me all these years and perhaps more importantly the answer given by the franchise owner.

 “In your opinion, what is the most important skill you must possess to be successful as a sales professional?”

My answer: The ability to establish relationships.

Perhaps most people would have given the same response and even more believe to be the correct answer (or at least that which my interviewer was looking for).