A question I get asked a lot is what resources I use to learn about sales and how I hone my craft. I thought it would be helpful to compile all of my favorites here! Remember, you don’t have to be a “salesperson” to benefit from learning how to sell. We are all selling and influencing and negotiating every day and these skills will help you in your career and personal life.
Books
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
This book changed my life. I read it when I was in 8th grade and going through a particularly rough patch making friends (I referenced this in my last post) and it has continued to serve me well in my professional aspirations. I love the older writing style and stories, and refer to this book often!
The Challenger Sale by Brent Adamson and Matthew Dixon
This book is the latest iteration in how we can approach our customers differently. It’s all about challenging norms and helping your customer think about their problems in a new way. Their website has some good resources as well.
Never Spilt the Difference by Chris Voss
This is the latest in the negotiations world. Voss is a former hostage negotiator and his stories and techniques are incredibly interesting and useful.
Right on Pitch by Austen Tosone
Austen is an accomplished content creator who knows how to pitch, negotiate, and sell in a complicated and varied industry. Her ebook on pitching is great for learning how to craft your message and create compelling reasons for others to work with you. She also shares tips constantly on social media, so make sure to give her a follow!
Podcasts and Websites
Daily Sales Tips Podcast
Scott shares a great sales tidbit each day, with a wide range of guests. Compelling Presentations is one of my favorite episodes. I also recommend Value Propositions and Concession Trading.
WISE (Women in Sales Everywhere)
I volunteer with WISE and am so excited about the work we are doing! There’s a backlog of blog posts (you can see mine here) and panel events to check out, with more coming out regularly. We cover tons of topics, so you’re sure to find something that is helpful for you.
Sales Hacker
This website has many forums where others in the sales community contribute their knowledge, challenges, and advice. From webinars, to podcasts, to articles, there is so much to explore! There’s also a fun series on daily routines. I was profiled here if you’re curious about the day in the life of a salesperson (pre-COVID).
I have a bunch of sales posts you check out here on this site too!
Are there any resources you use to get better at communicating and selling?
-Alyssa J
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