Which of the following is NOT a step in the personal selling process?

The personal selling process consists of several key steps that guide sales professionals in effectively engaging with potential customers. Among these steps, prospecting, research, and closing the sale are all integral components.

Prospecting involves identifying potential customers who may have a need for the product or service. Research refers to the process of gathering information about these prospects to tailor the pitch and understand their needs better. Closing the sale is the critical final step where the salesperson finalizes the transaction and secures the commitment from the customer.

Public speaking, while it can be a valuable skill for sales professionals, is not a defined step in the personal selling process. It may aid in enhancing communication and presentation skills, but it does not directly relate to the structured sequence of actions that comprise personal selling. Thus, it is appropriately identified as the option that does not fit within the personal selling process.