Mastering the Unteachable: Five Essential Sales Skills for Business Leaders

Tom Scabareti
Jan 15
2 min read

Updated: May 15

1. Coachability

Coachability is the ability to accept and act on feedback. Sales managers value a salesperson’s ability to adapt to new environments, continue learning, and improve performance over time. Call it “teachable fit.” Call it “emotional intelligence.” Call it “soft skills.” Just don’t call it optional.

2. Curiosity

Developing and embracing curiosity leads to better workplaces, innovative thinking, and creative problem-solving. Salespeople who are curious and empathetic can learn about anything and provide a stronger customer buying experience.

3. Integrity

Strong ethical and moral principles are essential traits valued by both sales managers and customers. Integrity fosters a professional culture where individuals depend on one another and treat each other with respect. This results in a more productive and motivated workplace.

4. Humility

Humility doesn’t mean downplaying your skills; it means being willing to roll up your sleeves and help, even when it’s not your job.

Share credit with your team.
Be honest about successes and failures.
Accept criticism and praise with balance.
Stay open to learning new tasks and processes.
Communicate kindly, even when you're correct.

5. Empathy

Empathy enhances emotional intelligence and leads to stronger relationships. It allows salespeople to handle challenging situations effectively and keep prospects and customers engaged. Empathetic individuals:

Are good listeners.
Mirror others’ emotions rather than rushing to offer advice.
Ask thought-provoking questions instead of stating opinions.
Process negative emotions before reacting.
Make colleagues feel understood, valued, and cared for.

These skills are crucial not just in social interactions but also for career success. They influence how well a salesperson handles objections, builds trust, and fosters long-term client relationships.

Final Thought

Sales managers should prioritize these skills when hiring. If you find candidates who possess them, I can help develop them into highly successful salespeople.