Watch and Learn: Sales Movies! Baby Boom

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 1987 film "Baby Boom" is more than just a comedy-drama; it's a treasure trove of sales lessons wrapped in an entertaining package. The movie follows J.C. Wiatt, played by Diane Keaton, a high-powered executive who inherits a baby and moves to Vermont. There, she starts a gourmet baby food company, which turns into a successful business venture. 

Here are some sales lessons we can learn from "Baby Boom":

Adaptability: J.C. Wiatt's life takes an unexpected turn, and she adapts by shifting her career path. In sales, the ability to adapt to new situations or market changes is crucial for success.

Perseverance: Despite numerous setbacks, J.C. continues to push forward with her business. This perseverance is a key trait in sales, where rejection and failure are common.

Innovation: J.C. sees an opportunity in a niche market for gourmet baby food and capitalizes on it. Innovative thinking can help sales professionals find unique selling points for their products or services.

Understanding the Customer: J.C.'s success comes from understanding her customers' needs for healthy baby food. Salespeople must deeply understand their customers' needs and preferences.

Personal Branding: J.C. becomes the face of her brand, using her personal story to connect with customers. Personal branding can be a powerful tool in sales to build trust and rapport.

As for a memorable quote from the movie, one that stands out is J.C. Wiatt's declaration of self-confidence and capability: "There is nothing in the world to get uptight about. We are two summa cum laudes. We can handle one little baby for eight hours." This line encapsulates the spirit of determination and self-assurance that is essential in both parenting and sales.

"Baby Boom" offers a humorous yet insightful look at the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship and sales. It reminds us that with the right mindset and skills, any obstacle can be turned into an opportunity. Whether you're a seasoned sales professional or just starting, there's something to be learned from J.C. Wiatt's journey from corporate executive to successful entrepreneur.