To what extent does professionalism play in securing a job or a sale vs. education, and what do you believe contributes to professionalism? These were the questions posed to me

My opinon is education is important to a point and then street smarts and professionalism will overtake education in importance. I also believe to get anything you want in life requires selling skills.

Here are the tips I shared regarding professionalism and getting what you want or closing more sales:

1. Are you polite in a meeting and attempt to understand the viewpoints of others?
2. Do you dress professionally?
3. Do you follow-up promptly and keep your word?
4. Do you conduct the proper research before going into a meeting whether for a client or to be hired?
5. Some Ph.D.s have little street smarts or think outside of the written word
6. Do you think only in black and white or in rainbow form to come up with creative ideas?
7. Are you able to analyze problems and offer solutions when challenges arrive?
8. Do you demonstrate leadership skills?

When you are able to answer yes to these questions, you have the entrepreneurial spirt, mindset for business development; you will easily build relationships and get what you are after or close the sale. You will also be in the habit of developing a Smooth Sale!