Don't Underestimate Your Competition

I put this in because I'm constantly surprised (and I'm sure you've seen this) by people who come to sell me things but don't want to answer any tough questions. For instance, wholesalers representing different investment-related products will lobby for me to use their products or investment vehicle for my clients. But for example, when I ask why their costs are higher than their main competition, the only answer is, "We're so confident that we're the best that we don't even know exactly what the competition is offering"—sounds like they are either lazy or not willing to answer the tough questions with an honest response!

So be sure you know what your company's competitors—or your competitors in the office—are up to. And think through why your ideas—or your company's products—are better than someone else's. When you're selling yourself (or your company), it pays to prepare answers to the most difficult questions. Not only does it make you look smart and well-prepared, it also cuts down on worry. After you have answers for the all the tough questions, there's nothing further to worry about!