Businessman, writer, and money educator Robert Kiyosaki was sitting down one morning to an interview with a young reporter in Singapore.  During the course of the interview they got to talking about the reporter’s own career.

“Someday I want to be a best-selling author like you,” she told Kiyosaki, “but my work never seems to go anywhere.  That’s why I keep my job at the paper.”

“Do you want some advice?” Kiyosaki asked her.  He’d read some of her work before agreeing to the interview; it was strong and clear.  She was an excellent writer.

“I . . . I guess.  What did you have in mind?”

“I have a friend here in Singapore who runs a salesmanship school.  You could get started with one of his–”

She was offended and cut him off.  “You’re suggesting I learn how to sell?”

“Well, yes.  What’s wrong with that?”

“I’m a professional!  I went to school!  I have a master’s degree!  I shouldn’t have to sell–all salespeople want is money, and I’ll never stoop so low as that!”  She was shoving materials back into her suitcase.

Kiyosaki picked up a copy of his book.  “Look at this.”

She paused.  “What?”

“What does it say under the title?”  She looked, but didn’t see.  Kiyosaki continued.  “It says best-selling author . . . not best-writing author.  You’re a great writer; I’m a terrible one.  The difference is that I know how to sell.  You’re one skill away from great wealth.”

Great talent is not enough.  Great talent combined with the skills to market it and connect with an audience . . . that’s the whole package.  It’s worth learning how to do, or finding someone who can do it for you.