Frank Heijdenrijk ♛
13 min readJan 31, 2024

15 Books About Salesman That Will Elevate You Into An Exceptional Sales Strategist

Picture the bustling marketplace of an ancient city, filled with the aroma of spices and the buzz of chatter. Amidst this, you stand by a vibrant stall, the warmth of the afternoon sun on your back, as you entice passersby with the tales of your wares.

Around you, potential customers from all walks of life gather, listening intently. A curious child tugs at their parent’s sleeve, eyes widening at the colorful descriptions you weave. A seasoned merchant nods appreciatively at your pitch, recognizing the finesse of your craft.

Photo by GR Stocks on Unsplash

You spin a tale about the origins of a silk scarf, describing the faraway lands it came from and the skilled hands that crafted it. Narrating the story of a heroic conquest, you connect an ornate dagger to the valor and bravery that customers may yearn for.

Storytelling has always been an intrinsic tool for connecting people, transcending simple data to engage our imaginations. It is a potent method of communication that allows concepts and ideas to be effortlessly grasped and remembered.

Moreover, mastering the art of storytelling can significantly bolster your presence in the digital sphere. Personally, my storytelling abilities have allowed me to captivate a vast audience across platforms such as Reddit, Quora, personal blogs, and various other digital forums.

Perfecting your narrative skills can bring numerous advantages, such as:

  • Enhancing your charisma as a motivational leader, both in the physical world and online.
  • Capturing the attention of your audience in any setting.
  • Conveying your points succinctly and impactfully.
  • Propelling your journey to authoring your own compelling narratives.
  • Upping your social game, ensuring you’re the life of the party, not the one overshadowed by poor anecdotal efforts.

To ascend to the rank of a master storyteller, immerse yourself in the worlds contained within books. My personal journey through hundreds of titles, many focusing on the fine art of telling tales, has been transformative.

Enclosed is a selection of 15 exceptional reads guaranteed to sharpen your storytelling skills and elevate your salesmanship to new heights.

1. Secrets of a Master Closer: A Simpler, Easier, And Faster Way To Sell Anything To Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere

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I recommend this book because it provides a step-by-step guide on how to smoothly and effectively convert skeptical prospects into happy customers who will refer you to others. Unlike the typical sales techniques that rely on gimmicks and pressure tactics, this book focuses on genuine and respectful salesmanship that leaves the customer feeling satisfied and supported. By following the specific laws and stages of sales outlined in this book, you can build a loyal customer base that will continue to support you through loyalty, repeat orders, and referrals. This book covers essential topics such as the eight precise steps of every sale, identifying qualified prospects, avoiding presentation mistakes, creating closing opportunities, and overcoming objections. It is not just a book but a comprehensive sales training course that includes exercises to help you master each technique and step of the sales process. Whether you are new to sales or an experienced professional looking to improve your performance, this book will greatly increase your chances of success. As a bonus, the author provides a free “Road Map” in PDF format, which serves as a handy cheat sheet to reference during sales interactions or for refreshing your knowledge. If you want to learn the secrets of master closers and sell more easily and efficiently, I highly recommend reading this book.

Check out Secrets of a Master Closer: A Simpler, Easier, And Faster Way To Sell Anything To Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere

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2. Death of a Salesman

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I recommend this book because it explores the hardships and struggles of a salesman who has spent most of his life trying to make a living. Willy Loman, the protagonist, has dedicated 34 years to this profession, but now finds himself at rock bottom. The book delves into his experiences and emotions as he confronts the harsh realities of his past and the uncertainty of his future. With one last courageous act, the reader finds themselves questioning whether Willy is truly a hero or simply fooling himself. If you enjoy thought-provoking stories that delve into the human psyche and challenge societal expectations, this book is a must-read.

Check out Death of a Salesman

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3. The Greatest Salesman in the World, Part 2: The End of the Story

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I recommend this book because it is hailed as the most important book of our generation and is considered a flawless masterpiece by many, including Denis Waitley, author of Seeds of Greatness. This inspirational classic has already touched the lives of over nine million people, offering them solace and hope. Now, the long-awaited sequel is finally here, revealing what happens to the greatest salesman in the world after his retirement and how he embarks on a new career. Initially faced with failure, he receives a special gift that changes everything and allows him to return triumphantly to his homeland. There, he pens his own Ten Vows of Success, which are meant to be shared with anyone seeking a better life, including you. This book, The Greatest Salesman in the World — Part II: The End of the Story, not only continues the beloved tale of Hafid but also introduces his wisdom to a whole new generation of readers.

Check out The Greatest Salesman in the World, Part 2: The End of the Story

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4. The Car Salesman’s Bible: How to truly make six figures selling cars

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I recommend this book because it has received one of the greatest compliments ever — a salesperson who had been in the car business for years found value in the training steps listed in the book. The steps mentioned in the book were so helpful that salespeople had been passing them around for years, as they had never received better training from their employers. The book is written for both new hires and experienced professionals, making it extensive and comprehensive. It serves as a map to success for anyone aspiring to become a professional car salesperson. I hope you find this book to be a valuable tool in your journey and have the discipline to follow the process outlined in it. In essence, this book can become your go-to guide, your Car Salesman’s Bible.

Check out The Car Salesman’s Bible: How to truly make six figures selling cars

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5. The Salesman’s Bible: Effective Techniques for the Ambitious Salesman

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I recommend this book because it sheds light on the importance of being a salesman, a profession that is often overlooked in today’s society. It emphasizes how this profession has contributed to the advancements and improvements we enjoy in our daily lives. If you want to enhance your skills as a salesman, this book is the right place to start. Inside its pages, you will discover the secrets of creating a compelling Sales Story, the significance of practicing the essentials, effective closing techniques for different types of prospects, and the impact of delivering a high-quality presentation. This book is your first step towards a better future and taking control of your own destiny. Join the author on their journey to make this profession great again!

Check out The Salesman’s Bible: Effective Techniques for the Ambitious Salesman

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6. The Greatest Salesman in the World Part II — The End of the Story AND The Greatest Salesman in the World (TWO BOOKS SOLD AS A SET)

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“The Great Gatsby” is a classic American novel written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Set during the Roaring Twenties, it tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire who throws extravagant parties in hopes of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The novel explores themes of love, wealth, and the pursuit of the American Dream, while providing a vivid portrayal of the Jazz Age and capturing the social and moral decay of the time.

“I recommend this book because it offers a captivating glimpse into the glamorous and tumultuous world of the 1920s. Through the lens of Jay Gatsby’s pursuit of love and wealth, F. Scott Fitzgerald skillfully explores themes of ambition, desire, and the consequences of unchecked materialism. The characters in ‘The Great Gatsby’ are complex and flawed, making their journey through the decadent Jazz Age all the more compelling. Fitzgerald’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of society in the grips of social and moral decay. This timeless novel is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the dark underbelly of the American Dream.”

Check out The Greatest Salesman in the World Part II — The End of the Story AND The Greatest Salesman in the World (TWO BOOKS SOLD AS A SET)

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7. Death Of A Salesman, Certain Private Conversations In Two Acts And A Requiem

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I recommend this book because it is a Pulitzer Prize-winning tragedy that explores the deferred dreams of a salesman. Death of a Salesman, first performed in 1949, is a renowned milestone in American theater. Arthur Miller’s portrayal of Willy Loman, an aging salesman who relies on charm and deception, redefines the concept of a tragic hero. Loman’s dreams are both overwhelmingly ambitious and dangerously fragile, making him a symbol of grandiosity. This play encapsulates a wide range of emotions, from humor to anguish, promising a thought-provoking experience. It is an exceptional drama that has earned its place among the finest in American theater.

Check out Death Of A Salesman, Certain Private Conversations In Two Acts And A Requiem

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8. In Pursuit of the Traveling Salesman: Mathematics at the Limits of Computation

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I recommend this book because it delves into the captivating world of the traveling salesman problem, which is one of the greatest unsolved problems in mathematics. Despite its seemingly simple premise, the problem has stumped mathematicians for years and continues to do so even today. William Cook takes readers on a journey through the history of the problem, starting with its origins in the 1800s and tracing its evolution to present-day attempts at finding a solution. Along the way, he explores the various applications of the traveling salesman problem, ranging from genome sequencing and computer processor design to music arrangement and planet hunting. This book not only challenges our understanding of complexity but also invites readers to join in the pursuit of discovering the solution to this intriguing mathematical puzzle.

Check out In Pursuit of the Traveling Salesman: Mathematics at the Limits of Computation

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9. Death of a Salesman (Book 3 of a Harriet Rose Cozy Murder Mystery Series) (Harriet Rose Humorous Cozy Murder Mysteries)

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I recommend this book because it takes you on an exciting journey with amateur sleuth, Harriet Rose and her friend Libby. They thought they were heading for a peaceful vacation in the snowy mountains of upstate New York, but little did they know that they would be caught up in a thrilling murder case. Trapped at the WindLake Mountain Resort during a snow storm with no police or working phones, Harriet must race against time to solve the mysterious murder before the killer strikes again. With unusual crime, suspicious suspects, and an eerie castle, this book is a captivating read that will keep you hooked until the very end. What’s great is that there is no cursing, gore, or sex in this book, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a traditional cozy mystery. If you enjoy page-turning mysteries set in a coastal town, then this series is definitely for you. Each book in the Harriet Rose Mystery series can be enjoyed as a standalone read, but they are best enjoyed in the following order: Death of a Celebrity: Harriet Rose Mystery #1, Death of a Liar: Harriet Rose Mystery #2, and Death of a Salesman: Harriet Rose Mystery #3.

Check out Death of a Salesman (Book 3 of a Harriet Rose Cozy Murder Mystery Series) (Harriet Rose Humorous Cozy Murder Mysteries)

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10. The Greatest Salesman in the World

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I recommend this book because it is a thought-provoking read by Og Mandino titled “The Greatest Salesman in the World.”

Check out The Greatest Salesman in the World

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11. Death of a Salesman (Viking Critical Library)

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I recommend this book because it tells the powerful story of Willy Loman, a salesman who has dedicated his life to the American dream. Despite his efforts, Willy has been unable to achieve the success and respect he desires. As he reflects on his life at the age of 63, he searches for the moments that led to his downfall and the betrayal that damaged his relationships with his wife and son. Willy lives in a world of excuses and daydreams, desperately trying to understand himself and a world that once held so much promise. Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play is a landmark of the theater, exploring the tragic flaws of the American dream. In this edition, you’ll find the complete text of the play, along with facsimiles of the original typescript. It also includes a wealth of critical and contextual material, including conflicting reviews, articles by Miller himself, and essays by renowned critics. This edition provides a comprehensive look at the play and its impact, making it a must-read for anyone interested in American literature and theater.

Check out Death of a Salesman (Viking Critical Library)

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12. Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present (The Path to Calm)

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I recommend this book because it offers practical solutions to overcome negative thought patterns and reduce stress in your life. Overthinking is often the main cause of unhappiness, and this book helps you break free from that never-ending thought loop. The author, Nick Trenton, understands the exhausting situation you’ve put yourself in and how anxiety and stress can trap your mind. He provides detailed and proven techniques to help you rewire your brain, control your thoughts, and change your mental habits. Additionally, the book offers scientific approaches to completely change the way you think and feel about yourself, thus ending vicious thought patterns. By following the strategies outlined in the book, you will be able to stop ruminating and dwelling on negative thoughts, be aware of your triggers, find relaxation and focus, and overcome stress attacks. This book empowers you to unleash your unlimited potential and start living a stress-free life, allowing you to live in the present moment and achieve more. Say goodbye to self-deprecating talk and sleepless nights with racing thoughts. Free your mind from overthinking and unlock your true potential.

Check out Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present (The Path to Calm)

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13. Fanatical Prospecting: The Ultimate Guide to Opening Sales Conversations and Filling the Pipeline by Leveraging Social Selling, Telephone, Email, Text, and Cold Calling (Jeb Blount)

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I recommend this book because it provides valuable insights and practical guidance on the crucial activity of prospecting in sales and business development. In “Fanatical Prospecting,” Jeb Blount highlights the importance of consistently filling your pipeline with qualified opportunities and avoiding sales slumps. He offers a step-by-step approach that can be applied by real people in the real world. This book uncovers the secrets and techniques used by top earners, including the 30-Day Rule, the Law of Replacement, and the Law of Familiarity. Blount also shares strategies for social selling, effective telephone and email prospecting, and leveraging text messaging. With powerful strategies, techniques, and tools, “Fanatical Prospecting” equips readers with the ability to overcome objections, secure more appointments, engage in more sales conversations, and close more sales. If you want to escape the feast or famine sales cycle and improve your sales productivity, this book is a must-read.

Check out Fanatical Prospecting: The Ultimate Guide to Opening Sales Conversations and Filling the Pipeline by Leveraging Social Selling, Telephone, Email, Text, and Cold Calling (Jeb Blount)

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14. The Inner Work: An Invitation to True Freedom and Lasting Happiness

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I recommend this book because it is the ultimate self-help guide that can truly transform your life. If you are in search of motivation and inspiration, “The Inner Work” is the perfect choice for you. Through a profound exploration of your subconscious mind, this book will lead you on a heroic journey to unlock your full potential and find lasting happiness. It goes beyond just positive thinking, and instead offers a practical three-step method to uproot limiting beliefs and overcome the patterns of suffering. Drawing from various ancient wisdom traditions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and yoga philosophy, this spiritual book is inclusive to all. Within its pages, you will learn how to heal past traumas, reframe your thoughts, break negative cycles, and improve your mindset to optimize every aspect of your life. Additionally, “The Inner Work” guides you on a path of self-discovery, helping you to identify and heal your inner wounds and tendencies. It also teaches the importance of presence and meditation for a better quality of life, and offers insights on forgiveness, compassion, and connection with your higher Self. This book challenges the mainstream idea of “manifesting” and presents a more holistic approach to personal growth, recognizing that each individual is unique and requires their own path to healing. By understanding the themes of consciousness and using the three-step method outlined in this book, you can gain a deeper understanding of your emotions, thoughts, and patterns, and find the healthy balance that is right for you. “The Inner Work” will revolutionize your perspective on healing, showing that negative emotions are not a curse, but rather an opportunity for growth and freedom. So if you are ready to embark on an inner journey of transformation, this book is a must-read for you.

Check out The Inner Work: An Invitation to True Freedom and Lasting Happiness

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Frank Heijdenrijk ♛

Sometimes I believe I have amazing things to write about. Most of the times I am absolutely wrong.