I know where you're coming from and I think it depends a lot on what you're selling. For example, I have become personal friends with employees of a few of our largest vendors who I ended up corresponding with on a daily/weekly basis, but for a lot of minor contracts it's completely impersonal. And yes, don't force anything... that would be sleazy and a turn off for most.

I'm a bit curious about the sales process, too, and occasionally tempted by the opportunity to learn more about how many different companies work (with a chance at making high six figures in the meantime)... but I'm too risk averse to seriously consider a commission based job. Good luck!