How much time do you spend practicing and developing your skills?

"Most Olympic athletes spend in excess of 3000 hours preparing for a 2, 3 or 10 minute race. Most good golfers hit hundreds of golf balls every day to refine their swing, balance and performance. Are other careers different? No. Doctors, contractors, teachers, counselors spend time in research, discovery and experimentation. They don't wait until they get into the operating room or in front of the classroom," explains sales trainer Tim Connor.

Selling is no different. Take a cue from the pros and practice, practice, practice. Memorizing scripts, creating responses to objections, and becoming an expert on a client's company are all things that take time and effort to feel comfortable with. Practicing with friends and family or even in front of a mirror or video camera will help you immensely.

"Show me any athlete in any sport who achieves success, fame or even makes a decent living, and I will show you someone who spends more time practicing than in the performance of his or her sport," says Tim.

Apply Tim's reminder to your daily sales routine and you'll be ready for the big leagues. You can get more tips from Tim at his website, www.timconnor.com