Which of the following attributes is least likely to aid in a salesperson's success?

Pessimism is least likely to aid in a salesperson's success because it tends to hinder positive interactions and relationship-building, which are crucial in sales. A successful salesperson needs to inspire confidence in potential customers and convey a sense of hope about the benefits of their products or services. Pessimism, characterized by a negative outlook and an expectation of unfavorable outcomes, can undermine these efforts.

In contrast, attributes like empathy, responsibility, and optimism significantly contribute to a salesperson's effectiveness. Empathy helps in understanding customers' needs and concerns, leading to stronger connections and better-tailored solutions. Responsibility fosters trust and reliability, ensuring that the salesperson is viewed as accountable and professional. Optimism encourages a positive approach, motivating both the salesperson and the customer to envision successful outcomes, which can lead to increased sales and long-term relationships.