Which characteristic is NOT associated with effective consultative sales professionals?

In consultative selling, an effective sales professional demonstrates a range of characteristics that facilitate understanding and meeting the needs of the client. Inflexibility, particularly in negotiation, is contrary to the principles of consultative selling.

Consultative sales involves listening actively to clients, understanding their needs, and offering tailored solutions. Active listening allows sales professionals to engage with clients' concerns genuinely, leading to more fruitful conversations. Skilled communicators are crucial as they must convey information clearly and persuasively while also being open to dialogue and feedback. Adaptability is essential in consultative selling because the needs and circumstances of clients can vary widely; effective sales professionals adjust their approach based on those changing requirements.

Being inflexible in negotiation would hinder the ability to adapt to clients and to seek mutually beneficial outcomes. Thus, this characteristic does not align with the effective practices associated with consultative sales, making it the correct answer.