Watch and Learn: Sales Movies! The Big Short

 Not all of these movies cast the sales profession in the best light. Few of them tie directly to the work we do today of engaging prospects and building relationships in the digital space. But as you watch these heralded classics, you’re bound to come away with some insight and food for thought.

At the very least, you’ll have a stomach full of popcorn and candy. Now there’s an easy sell.

"The Big Short," a film adaptation of Michael Lewis's book, is not just a gripping tale of the 2007-2008 financial crisis but also a treasure trove of lessons for sales professionals and investors. The movie showcases how a group of investors managed to foresee and profit from the impending economic collapse. Here are some key sales lessons gleaned from the narrative:

Do Your Homework: The characters in the movie did extensive research to understand the housing market and the flawed mortgage system. Similarly, in sales, it's crucial to thoroughly research and understand your product, market, and customers.

Question the Status Quo: The protagonists didn't accept the common belief that the housing market was stable. In sales, challenging the prevailing wisdom can uncover new opportunities and niches.

Risk Assessment: The movie illustrates the importance of evaluating risks carefully. In sales, understanding and mitigating potential risks can prevent significant losses and help in making informed decisions.

Diversification: One of the lessons from the movie is not to put all your eggs in one basket. Diversification can help spread risk and increase the chances of overall success in sales portfolios.

Trust Your Convictions: Despite skepticism from others, the main characters trusted their analysis and judgment. In sales, believing in your strategy and seeing it through can lead to success, even if it goes against popular opinion.

Ethical Considerations: "The Big Short" also touches on the ethical dilemmas faced by those who profited from the crisis. In sales, maintaining ethical standards is crucial for long-term success and reputation.

As for a memorable quote from the movie, one that stands out is: "Truth is like poetry. And most people fucking hate poetry." This line encapsulates the film's critical view of the financial industry's complexity and the general public's aversion to confronting harsh realities.

"The Big Short" serves as a cautionary tale and a learning opportunity for sales professionals, reminding us that success often lies in diligence, ethical conduct, and the courage to bet against the consensus when warranted. The movie's narrative and its real-life implications continue to resonate, offering valuable insights into the world of sales and finance.