When viewed from afar, sales-or the ability to perform as a salesperson-may seem as inaccessible to the average person as climbing Mount Everest. But climbing Mount Everest doesn't just happen overnight. It takes training, preparation, and discipline. Being a successful salesperson is no different. It too takes an ever growing list of skills, characteristics, and statistics.

Fortunately, being a great salesperson is a skill just like any other; it can be learned and thoroughly mastered. So, what makes a great salesperson?

Below you will find 12 characteristics that seem to resonate with top sales reps and 8 statistics to start you on your path to sales success. Make sure you print this out and share it with both your inside and field sales teams.