Watch and Learn: Sales Movies! Margin Call

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.

"Margin Call," a gripping movie set during the initial stages of the financial crisis, provides a stark look into the high-stakes world of finance and the ethical dilemmas that professionals face. The film is not just a narrative about the financial sector but also a treasure trove of lessons for sales professionals and business leaders. Here are some key takeaways:

The Importance of Transparency: The movie underscores the consequences of concealing critical information. In sales, transparency with clients builds trust and long-term relationships, whereas dishonesty can lead to disastrous outcomes.

Understanding Risk Management: The fictional firm's downfall was partly due to a lack of understanding of the risks involved with their investments. Sales professionals should always be aware of the potential risks and rewards of their products and services.

Ethical Decision-Making: One of the central themes of "Margin Call" is the conflict between personal gain and ethical responsibility. Sales teams are often faced with similar dilemmas, and the movie serves as a reminder to consider the broader impact of one's actions.

The Power of Self-Rationalization: Characters in the movie justify their unethical actions for survival, reflecting the ease with which one can rationalize questionable decisions. Sales professionals must be vigilant to avoid falling into this trap.

The Value of Being Proactive: The characters who anticipate and act on the crisis fare better than those who react passively. In sales, anticipating market changes and customer needs can be the difference between success and failure.

As for the best quote from "Margin Call," it encapsulates the cynical reality of the financial world as seen through the eyes of the character John Tuld: "There are three ways to make a living in this business: be first, be smarter, or cheat." This line, delivered with a chilling matter-of-factness, serves as a stark reminder of the cutthroat nature of the financial—and by extension, sales—industry.

"Margin Call" is more than a movie; it's a lesson in the complexities of finance, the weight of ethical choices, and the relentless pressure faced by those in the sales and financial sectors. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the darker side of the financial world and the moral quandaries that come with it.