Watch and Learn: Sales Movies! The Goods Live Hard Sell Hard

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 movie "The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard" is a comedic take on the cutthroat world of used car sales. It follows the story of Don Ready and his team of skilled salespeople who are hired to help a struggling dealership during a Fourth of July sale. While the film is a comedy, it does offer some interesting takeaways for sales professionals.

Confidence is Key: Don Ready's character exudes confidence, which is a critical trait for any salesperson. Believing in yourself and the product you are selling can significantly influence potential buyers.

Know Your Audience: The sales team in the movie understands the importance of knowing their customers. They tailor their pitches to meet the individual needs and desires of each buyer, showcasing the importance of personalization in sales.

Adaptability: The team is faced with various challenges throughout the movie but adapts their strategies accordingly. This highlights the need for flexibility in sales tactics.

The Art of Persuasion: One of the most memorable scenes involves Don Ready convincing a flight attendant to allow him to smoke on a plane, showcasing his persuasive skills. While the methods used in the film are exaggerated, the underlying principle of persuasion is a fundamental sales skill.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: The film emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving sales goals. Each member of Don Ready's team brings a unique skill set that contributes to their collective success.

Humor Can Be an Effective Tool: The use of humor, when appropriate, can help build rapport with clients and create a memorable sales experience.

One of the standout quotes from the movie that encapsulates the spirit of sales is:

"Pain is weakness leaving the body." - Don Ready

This quote reflects the resilience needed in the sales industry. It suggests that the challenges and rejections faced by salespeople are not setbacks but opportunities for growth and strengthening one's sales acumen.

"The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard" may be a comedic exaggeration of the sales world, but it does provide some valuable insights wrapped in humor. Whether you're a seasoned sales professional or new to the field, there's something to be learned from Don Ready's unorthodox methods and unwavering confidence. Remember, while the movie takes a lighthearted approach, the essence of sales remains the same: understanding your client, being confident in your pitch, and adapting to any situation.