Watch and Learn: Sales Movies! Death of a Salesman

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.

Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" is a poignant narrative that delves into the American Dream and the life of a salesman named Willy Loman. While it is a work of fiction, the play offers valuable lessons for sales professionals and anyone looking to understand the complexities of human ambition and failure. Here are some key takeaways:

Accept Change and Adapt: Willy Loman's inability to adapt to the changing business landscape leads to his downfall. Sales professionals must be flexible and willing to embrace new methods and technologies to stay relevant.

Self-awareness is Crucial: A lack of self-awareness and an inflated sense of self-importance can blind one to reality. Understanding one's strengths and weaknesses is vital for personal and professional growth.

Value Relationships Over Transactions: Willy often prioritizes his self-image over genuine connections, which costs him relationships that could have supported him through tough times. Building and maintaining trust with clients is more sustainable than chasing quick deals.

Set Realistic Goals: Willy's unrealistic expectations for himself and his sons create a life of delusion and disappointment. Setting achievable goals helps maintain motivation and progress.

Learn from Failure: The play shows that not learning from past mistakes can lead to repeated failures. Embracing failures as learning opportunities can lead to success in the future.

Work-Life Balance: Willy's obsession with work leads to neglect of his family, which contributes to his tragic end. Balancing professional ambitions with personal life is essential for overall well-being.

Integrity Matters: Willy's questionable ethics and dishonesty ultimately do not pay off. Integrity in sales builds long-term credibility and success.

Understand Your Value: The play's famous quote, "You can't eat the orange and throw the peel away - a man is not a piece of fruit," reflects the need to understand and assert one's value beyond mere productivity.

"Death of a Salesman" is a reminder that success is not just measured by sales figures or social status, but also by the integrity and fulfillment one finds in their work and life. 

The best quote that encapsulates this message is:

"Why am I trying to become what I don’t want to be … when all I want is out there, waiting for me the minute I say I know who I am." – Arthur Miller, "Death of a Salesman".

This quote highlights the importance of self-realization and pursuing a life that aligns with one's true desires and identity. It serves as a powerful reminder to sales professionals and all individuals to seek out what truly matters to them.