I just read Catie's post about nonprofit faux pas. As you read her post, who did you identify with?

Did you identify with Catie because you're sick and tired of some bozo calling you up and asking for your money? (There are many great causes our there that deserve to be supported. They just don't know how to ask.)

Did you identify with the nonprofit? Huh? How could you possibly identify with the nonprofit? You're an entrepreneur with a great idea that will solve all the problems of the world. All you have to do is tell people about it and they'll give you their money and you'll be rich and famous. Then how come when you call people, they act like you're just another person asking them for money? How come you're not rich and famous? How come you're not profitable?

We are all in sales and most can't do it and don't know why. Politicians asking for votes, nonprofits saving the world, entrepreneurs bootstrapping their way one customer at a time, even social situations require sales expertise. Look up faux pas. Have you ever considered that what you think is "acceptable" in selling, may not be?

I talk to dozens of entrepreneurs every week. Most will never make it. They spend tons of money on marketing and product development. They hire salespeople themselves because they think that although they can't sell, they can recognize who can. They blog, tweet, trade LI recommendations and develop a fan base on Facebook. They eventually run out of money, energy and enthusiasm and get a job.

Thank you for a great sales lesson, Catie!