Create a respectful environment

When you are in a learning mode, it's important to set the stage for learning. That may mean gathering pen and paper, brochures, and a demo piece of equipment and locking yourself in the company conference room to study. It may mean interviewing the training director, company owner, or top salesperson, as well as current customers. It may involve watching hours of product training video or attending product classes.

No matter what type of education, begin every session with a clear respect for what's to come. Show up on time, if not early. Have plenty of paper for taking notes. Bring a couple of pens in different colors to highlight important information. Be courteous to those who are sharing their knowledge with you. The better you treat them, the more they'll relax. You'll be making them like you and trust you, thus offering more information. Hmm, sounds a lot like selling, doesn't it?