20 best books on how to sell – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re looking to master the art of selling and boost your business to new heights, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on how to sell that are guaranteed to transform your sales strategies and make you a sales superstar. Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, these books offer valuable insights, proven techniques, and practical advice to help you close deals like a pro. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of selling and discover the secrets to success!


Contents

To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others

by Daniel H. Pink

Are you ready to uncover the secrets of persuasion and influence? Look no further than “To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others” by Daniel H. Pink. This captivating book is not your typical run-of-the-mill book on how to sell, but rather a thought-provoking exploration into the art of persuasion.

With his signature wit and engaging storytelling, Pink challenges the conventional wisdom about salesmanship. He argues that in today’s world, we are all in sales, whether we realize it or not. Whether you’re convincing your boss to give you a raise, persuading your kids to do their homework, or enticing customers to buy your product, the ability to move others is an essential skill.

Pink dives deep into the science behind selling, revealing fascinating insights from social psychology and behavioral economics. He uncovers the ABCs of selling: attunement, buoyancy, and clarity. Through captivating anecdotes and real-world examples, Pink shows how these principles can be applied to various situations, empowering readers to become more effective influencers.

But “To Sell Is Human” is not just a book about how to sell. It’s a guide to understanding human behavior, communication, and the art of persuasion. Pink demonstrates how empathy, problem-solving, and storytelling are powerful tools that can help us connect with others and motivate them to take action.

So, if you’re looking for a refreshing take on the world of sales, grab a copy of “To Sell Is Human.” This how to sell book will not only teach you valuable strategies for moving others but also provide you with a deeper understanding of what it means to be human in an ever-changing marketplace.

The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation

by Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson

The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation is a game-changing book about the art of selling. If you’ve ever wondered how to sell more effectively, this book is your secret weapon. Forget everything you think you know about sales techniques and get ready to embrace a whole new approach.

Unlike traditional sales methods that focus on building relationships and meeting customer needs, The Challenger Sale introduces a revolutionary concept: challenging the customer’s thinking. The authors, Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson, argue that the most successful salespeople are the ones who disrupt the customer’s status quo, offering unique insights and pushing them out of their comfort zones.

This book is not just a manual on how to sell; it’s a guide to becoming a sales superstar. By adopting the Challenger approach, you’ll learn how to engage customers in meaningful conversations, provide valuable insights, and ultimately, drive them to make a purchase. Dixon and Adamson provide practical advice, real-world examples, and actionable strategies that you can start implementing right away.

So, if you’re tired of the same old sales techniques and want to gain a competitive edge, The Challenger Sale is the book for you. It’s a game-changer that will transform the way you think about selling and help you achieve unprecedented sales success. Get ready to challenge the status quo and take control of the customer conversation!

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

by Robert B. Cialdini

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini is a captivating book about the art of persuasion, a must-read for anyone who wants to master the subtle power of influence. This book is not just another run-of-the-mill ‘how to sell’ book; it is an enlightening exploration into the science behind persuasion.

The Art of Selling to the Affluent

by Matt Oechsli

The Art of Selling to the Affluent by Matt Oechsli is a compelling book on how to sell effectively to high-net-worth individuals.

With his extensive experience in the luxury market, Oechsli shares valuable insights and strategies that can help sales professionals connect with affluent clients and close deals.

This book about how to sell is not your typical sales manual; it dives deep into the psychology and behavior of the affluent, offering a unique perspective on how to approach them.

Through real-life examples and practical advice, Oechsli teaches readers how to build trust, establish credibility, and create long-lasting relationships with wealthy clients.

Whether you’re a seasoned salesperson or just starting out, this how to sell book is filled with actionable tips and techniques that can take your sales game to the next level.

If you’re looking to expand your client base and increase your sales in the high-end market, The Art of Selling to the Affluent is a must-read.

The Sales Acceleration Formula: Using Data, Technology, and Inbound Selling to Go from $0 to $100 Million

by Mark Roberge

The Sales Acceleration Formula is an innovative and game-changing book on how to sell, written by Mark Roberge. In this captivating read, Roberge unveils his groundbreaking strategies for using data, technology, and inbound selling to skyrocket sales from zero to a staggering $100 million.

Rather than relying on traditional, outdated sales methods, Roberge introduces a fresh approach that leverages the power of data and technology to drive sales success. He shares his personal experiences and insights gained from his time as the first sales hire at HubSpot, a leading software company.

This book about how to sell is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering practical tips and actionable advice for sales professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Roberge emphasizes the importance of aligning sales and marketing teams, using data-driven decision-making, and implementing a scalable sales process.

By embracing the inbound selling methodology, which focuses on attracting, engaging, and delighting customers, Roberge demonstrates how businesses can create a sustainable sales engine. He also stresses the significance of hiring and training top-notch salespeople, as well as utilizing technology to optimize their performance.

If you’re searching for a how to sell book that will revolutionize your sales approach, The Sales Acceleration Formula is a must-read. Roberge’s expertise and practical guidance will empower you to transform your sales organization and achieve remarkable growth in today’s competitive marketplace.

The Psychology of Selling: Increase Your Sales Faster and Easier Than You Ever Thought Possible

by Brian Tracy

The Psychology of Selling: Increase Your Sales Faster and Easier Than You Ever Thought Possible by Brian Tracy is an exceptional book on the art and science of selling. If you’re looking for a book about how to sell that will truly transform your approach and skyrocket your sales, then this is the one for you.

Brian Tracy, an internationally renowned sales expert, delves deep into the psychology behind successful selling. He unravels the secrets of top salespeople and presents practical techniques and strategies that will help you become a master in the field. This book is like a treasure trove filled with invaluable insights, tips, and advice.

Tracy doesn’t just focus on surface-level tactics; he dives into the mindsets and attitudes that separate average salespeople from extraordinary ones. He explores the power of positive thinking, goal setting, and self-confidence, showing you how to harness these qualities to your advantage.

Furthermore, Tracy emphasizes the importance of understanding your customers on a profound level. He teaches you how to connect with people, build trust, and influence their buying decisions through effective communication and persuasion. By mastering the art of empathy and listening, you’ll be able to tailor your sales approach to each individual customer, ensuring higher success rates.

One of the most significant strengths of this book is its practicality. Tracy provides step-by-step action plans, exercises, and checklists that you can implement immediately. Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting your journey, you’ll find immense value in the actionable strategies presented throughout the book.

The Psychology of Selling is not just a book; it’s a guide that can transform your sales career. Packed with wisdom, insight, and proven techniques, it offers a comprehensive roadmap to achieving unparalleled success in the world of selling. So, if you’re ready to take your sales skills to new heights, grab a copy of this book and get ready to unleash your selling potential.

The Sales Bible: The Ultimate Sales Resource

by Jeffrey Gitomer

The Sales Bible is the ultimate sales resource for anyone looking to master the art of selling. Written by acclaimed sales expert Jeffrey Gitomer, this book is more than just a guide – it’s a game-changer.

Considered a bible for sales professionals, this book covers everything you need to know about selling, from the fundamentals to advanced strategies. Gitomer’s expertise shines through as he shares his proven techniques, tips, and tactics to help you close deals and exceed your sales targets.

Unlike other sales books, The Sales Bible dives deep into the psychology of selling, providing invaluable insights into understanding your customers and building strong relationships. Gitomer’s conversational and engaging writing style makes it easy to digest and apply his advice in real-world situations.

Whether you’re a seasoned salesperson or just starting out, this book will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in any sales environment. It’s not just a book about how to sell, but a comprehensive resource that will transform you into a sales superstar.

So, if you’re ready to take your sales game to new heights, The Sales Bible is a must-read. Get ready to close more deals, build lasting relationships, and become a master in the art of selling.

The Little Red Book of Selling: 12.5 Principles of Sales Greatness

by Jeffrey Gitomer

Are you looking for a game-changing ‘book on how to sell’? Look no further than The Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer. This brilliant and captivating ‘book about how to sell’ is a must-read for anyone in the world of sales.

Gitomer’s book is not just your average ‘how to sell book’. It goes beyond the traditional sales techniques and dives deep into the mindset and principles that make a salesperson truly great. With his witty and engaging writing style, Gitomer presents his 12.5 principles of sales greatness in a way that will have you hooked from the first page.

What sets this ‘book on how to sell’ apart is Gitomer’s emphasis on building relationships and providing value to your customers. He stresses the importance of understanding your customers’ needs and finding creative ways to meet them. Gitomer’s principles are not just about closing a deal, but about creating long-lasting connections that lead to repeat business and customer loyalty.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, The Little Red Book of Selling is packed with practical advice and actionable tips that you can implement immediately. Gitomer’s insights will challenge your thinking and push you to become the best salesperson you can be.

So, if you’re ready to take your sales game to the next level, grab a copy of this game-changing ‘book about how to sell’. Gitomer’s principles of sales greatness will revolutionize the way you approach selling and set you on the path to success.

The Ultimate Sales Machine: Turbocharge Your Business with Relentless Focus on 12 Key Strategies

by Chet Holmes

The Ultimate Sales Machine: Turbocharge Your Business with Relentless Focus on 12 Key Strategies by Chet Holmes is the ultimate guide for anyone looking to skyrocket their sales and take their business to new heights. This groundbreaking book on how to sell is packed with invaluable insights, practical strategies, and actionable advice that will transform the way you approach sales.

Unlike any other book about how to sell, The Ultimate Sales Machine dives deep into the twelve key strategies that are crucial for success in today’s competitive market. Holmes, an acclaimed sales expert, shares his proven techniques that have helped numerous companies achieve extraordinary results.

With a relentless focus on these twelve strategies, Holmes takes you on a journey of mastering the art of selling. He covers a wide range of topics, including time management, marketing, customer service, and effective communication. Each chapter is filled with real-life examples, case studies, and step-by-step instructions, making it easy for readers to apply the concepts to their own businesses.

What sets this how to sell book apart is Holmes’ emphasis on the power of consistency and discipline. He emphasizes the importance of creating systems and processes that ensure consistent results. By implementing these strategies, you’ll be able to build a sales machine that generates predictable and sustainable growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, The Ultimate Sales Machine is a must-read. It provides a comprehensive roadmap to success, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to overcome obstacles, outperform your competition, and achieve your sales goals.

So, if you’re ready to turbocharge your business and take your sales to the next level, grab a copy of The Ultimate Sales Machine and unlock the secrets to becoming a sales superstar!

SPIN Selling

by Neil Rackham

SPIN Selling by Neil Rackham is a game-changing book on the art of selling. If you’ve ever wondered how to close deals more effectively or boost your sales performance, this book is a must-read. Rackham’s insightful strategies and techniques will revolutionize the way you approach selling. This isn’t just another run-of-the-mill book about how to sell; it’s a treasure trove of knowledge that dives deep into the psychology behind successful selling.

The Science of Selling: Proven Strategies to Make Your Pitch, Influence Decisions, and Close the Deal

by David Hoffeld

The Science of Selling is an exceptional book on how to sell, authored by David Hoffeld. In this insightful guide, Hoffeld explores the art of persuasion, providing readers with proven strategies to make their pitch, influence decisions, and ultimately close the deal. This comprehensive book about how to sell provides a fresh perspective on sales techniques, delving into the underlying science behind successful selling.

The Sales Development Playbook: Build Repeatable Pipeline and Accelerate Growth with Inside Sales

by Trish Bertuzzi

The Sales Development Playbook is a dynamic and insightful guidebook that equips sales professionals with the tools and strategies they need to excel in the world of inside sales. Authored by Trish Bertuzzi, this book is a treasure trove of expert advice and proven techniques for building a repeatable pipeline and accelerating growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales veteran or just starting out in the industry, this book is an invaluable resource that will help you master the art of selling. With its practical tips and real-life examples, Bertuzzi breaks down the complex process of sales development into manageable steps.

What sets this book apart from others is its emphasis on the importance of inside sales. Bertuzzi recognizes that the sales landscape is constantly evolving, and inside sales has become a vital component of any successful sales strategy. She provides readers with a comprehensive roadmap on how to leverage inside sales to generate leads, engage with prospects, and ultimately close deals.

Throughout the book, Bertuzzi shares her own experiences and insights gained from years of hands-on experience in the field. She covers a wide range of topics, including building an effective sales development team, creating a winning sales culture, and implementing the right technology tools to support your sales efforts.

Whether you’re looking to refine your existing sales processes or completely revamp your approach, The Sales Development Playbook is the ultimate guidebook to help you achieve your goals. With its practical advice, actionable strategies, and engaging storytelling, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to excel in the art of selling.

The Perfect Close: The Secret to Closing Sales – The Best Selling Practices & Techniques for Closing the Deal

by James Muir

The Perfect Close: The Secret to Closing Sales is an absolute game-changer for anyone looking to master the art of selling. This captivating book by James Muir is not just any ordinary “how to sell” book; it is a salesperson’s holy grail, packed with the best-selling practices and techniques to seal the deal.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting your journey in the world of sales, this book is a must-read. Muir’s approach is refreshingly different, as he doesn’t focus on pushy tactics or manipulative techniques. Instead, he teaches you the art of closing sales by building genuine relationships and understanding your customers’ needs.

One of the standout features of The Perfect Close is Muir’s emphasis on asking the right questions. He provides a comprehensive framework of powerful questions that will guide you through the sales process, helping you uncover your customers’ pain points and demonstrate how your product or service can provide the perfect solution.

What sets this book apart from others is Muir’s dedication to helping you perfect your closing technique. He breaks down the closing process into three simple steps, making it easy to implement and apply in real-life sales scenarios. With his proven methodology, you’ll be able to confidently close deals without any of the typical sales pressure.

Throughout the book, Muir shares insightful anecdotes and real-life examples that illustrate how his techniques have worked for him and countless others. This not only makes the book engaging but also helps you connect the dots and apply the concepts to your own selling situations.

If you’re looking to take your sales game to the next level, The Perfect Close is an invaluable resource. It’s a book that will transform the way you approach sales, enabling you to build authentic connections with your customers and effortlessly close deals. Prepare to become a master of closing sales with the wisdom and guidance found within these pages.

The Sales Enablement Playbook: How to Achieve Sales Excellence Through Enablement

by Cory Bray and Hilmon Sorey

The Sales Enablement Playbook: Achieving Sales Excellence Through Enablement is an insightful and practical guide for anyone looking to enhance their sales skills and drive success in their organization. Co-authored by Cory Bray and Hilmon Sorey, this book offers a comprehensive roadmap for sales professionals to excel in their roles and achieve remarkable results.

Bray and Sorey understand that selling is more than just a transaction; it’s about building relationships, understanding customer needs, and providing value. In this book, they take a refreshing approach by emphasizing the importance of sales enablement, which involves equipping sales teams with the right tools, knowledge, and support to succeed.

This book goes beyond traditional sales techniques and explores the concept of sales enablement in depth. It covers various aspects, including understanding buyer personas, creating effective sales playbooks, leveraging technology, and aligning marketing and sales efforts. By addressing these critical areas, Bray and Sorey provide readers with a holistic understanding of how to sell, empowering them to drive revenue growth and achieve sales excellence.

The Sales Enablement Playbook adopts a practical approach, offering actionable insights, real-world examples, and useful templates that readers can apply directly to their own sales processes. Whether you’re a sales manager, executive, or individual contributor, this book equips you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of modern selling.

With its engaging writing style and wealth of valuable information, The Sales Enablement Playbook is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their sales skills, improve team performance, and ultimately drive business success. Get ready to transform your approach to selling and achieve sales excellence with this exceptional book.

The Sales Manager’s Guide to Greatness: Ten Essential Strategies for Leading Your Team to the Top

by Kevin F. Davis

The Sales Manager’s Guide to Greatness: Ten Essential Strategies for Leading Your Team to the Top by Kevin F. Davis is not just another typical book on how to sell. It is a game-changing manual that equips sales managers with the necessary tools and knowledge to transform their team into a powerhouse of success.

Within the pages of this book about how to sell, Davis shares invaluable insights and strategies that have been proven to drive results. He understands that being a sales manager is not just about hitting numbers and achieving quotas. It’s about inspiring and motivating a team to reach their full potential.

With ten essential strategies, Davis guides sales managers through the intricacies of leading a high-performing sales team. From building a winning culture to recruiting top talent, he covers all aspects of sales management with clarity and precision.

What sets this how to sell book apart is its practicality. Davis provides real-life examples and actionable steps that sales managers can implement immediately. He understands that theory alone won’t yield results; it’s the execution that matters.

Throughout the book, Davis emphasizes the importance of effective communication, coaching, and accountability. He delves into the art of motivating individuals and creating a cohesive team that thrives on excellence.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales manager or aspiring to become one, The Sales Manager’s Guide to Greatness is a must-read. It will not only enhance your leadership skills but also equip you with the knowledge to drive your team towards unprecedented success. So, if you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the basics of selling and dives deep into the art of leading a sales team, this is the book for you.

The Salesperson’s Secret Code: The Belief Systems That Distinguish Winners

by Ian Mills, Mark Ridley, and Ben Laker

The Salesperson’s Secret Code is a captivating book about the art of selling, written by Ian Mills, Mark Ridley, and Ben Laker. If you’re on the lookout for a game-changing book on how to sell, look no further.

Unlike traditional books about how to sell, this masterpiece delves deeper into the belief systems that set successful salespeople apart from the rest. The authors explore the mindset, strategies, and techniques that can transform any salesperson into a true winner.

Within the pages of this how to sell book, you’ll discover an array of secrets and insights that unlock the potential within every salesperson. By challenging existing beliefs and introducing new perspectives, the authors guide readers on a journey to becoming top performers in their field.

With a fresh and engaging approach, The Salesperson’s Secret Code brings together the science of psychology, the art of persuasion, and real-life anecdotes to create a comprehensive guide for those seeking sales success. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this book will equip you with the tools and knowledge to excel in the competitive world of sales.

So, if you’re ready to uncover the secrets of the trade and take your selling skills to the next level, grab a copy of The Salesperson’s Secret Code. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and empowered as you unlock the belief systems that distinguish winners in the world of sales.

The Sales Survival Handbook: Cold Calls, Commissions, and Caffeine Addiction – The Real Truth About Life in Sales

by Ken Kupchik

The Sales Survival Handbook is a game-changing book about how to sell that pulls back the curtain on the often misunderstood world of sales. Written by Ken Kupchik, a veteran salesperson with years of experience under his belt, this book is like a survival guide for anyone navigating the challenging terrain of sales.

But don’t be fooled, this isn’t just another generic book on how to sell. It’s a witty, honest, and downright hilarious account of the real truth about life in sales. Kupchik’s writing is so engaging that you’ll find yourself laughing out loud as you read about his experiences, failures, and triumphs in the cutthroat world of sales.

From commissions to cold calls, and everything in between, this book covers it all. Kupchik doesn’t hold back as he shares his insider tips and tricks, as well as the harsh realities of the sales profession. He dives deep into the art of selling, providing practical advice on how to close deals, handle objections, and build lasting relationships with customers.

But what sets this how to sell book apart is its unique focus on the human side of sales. Kupchik explores the emotional rollercoaster that salespeople often find themselves on, from the highs of making a big sale to the lows of dealing with rejection. He offers valuable insights on how to maintain a positive mindset, handle stress, and stay motivated even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

So, if you’re looking for a book on how to sell that goes beyond the typical sales jargon and offers a refreshingly honest perspective, look no further than The Sales Survival Handbook. Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, this book is guaranteed to entertain, inspire, and equip you with the tools you need to thrive in the world of sales.

The Sales Development Playbook: Build Repeatable Pipeline and Accelerate Growth with Inside Sales

by Trish Bertuzzi

The Sales Development Playbook is a highly acclaimed book that serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals and teams looking to build a repeatable pipeline and accelerate growth with inside sales. Written by Trish Bertuzzi, this book is the ultimate resource for anyone seeking to excel in the art of selling.

With an engaging and practical approach, Bertuzzi provides invaluable insights and strategies that are applicable to both new and experienced sales professionals. This book is not just a typical “how to sell” guide, but rather a playbook that offers a step-by-step framework for success.

Bertuzzi delves into the world of sales development, covering essential topics such as prospecting, qualifying leads, creating effective messaging, and managing the sales pipeline. She emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with prospects and customers, and provides actionable tactics for doing so.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the role of inside sales in modern business. Bertuzzi recognizes the growing significance of inside sales teams and offers valuable advice for leveraging technology and data to drive results. She also highlights the importance of collaboration between sales and marketing teams to achieve optimal outcomes.

Whether you are an individual looking to enhance your sales skills or a sales leader seeking to improve your team’s performance, The Sales Development Playbook is a must-read. Packed with real-world examples, practical tips, and proven strategies, this book is a game-changer for anyone in the business of selling.

The Sales Boss: The Real Secret to Hiring, Training, and Managing a Sales Team

by Jonathan Whistman

The Sales Boss is a dynamic and game-changing book on how to sell that provides a refreshing approach to hiring, training, and managing a sales team. Written by Jonathan Whistman, this insightful guide offers a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies for any sales leader looking to achieve unparalleled success.

The Sales Acceleration Formula: Using Data, Technology, and Inbound Selling to Go from $0 to $100 Million

by Mark Roberge

The Sales Acceleration Formula is a game-changing book about how to sell, written by Mark Roberge, a renowned sales professional and former Chief Revenue Officer at HubSpot. In this insightful guide, Roberge shares his proven strategies and techniques for taking a company from zero to $100 million in revenue using data, technology, and inbound selling.

Rather than relying on traditional sales methods, Roberge emphasizes the importance of leveraging data and technology to optimize the sales process. He introduces the concept of the Sales Acceleration Formula, a framework that combines hiring, training, and managing salespeople with the power of inbound selling to drive exponential growth.

Roberge’s approach is a refreshing departure from the typical sales advice found in other books about how to sell. He emphasizes the importance of building a scalable sales team by hiring the right people and providing them with the necessary tools and training to succeed. He also emphasizes the significance of using data to identify key performance indicators and make data-driven decisions.

The Sales Acceleration Formula is packed with real-world examples and actionable insights that can be applied to any sales organization, regardless of its size or industry. Whether you are a sales professional, a sales manager, or an entrepreneur looking to scale your business, this book is an invaluable resource that will help you unlock your full sales potential.

So, if you’re seeking a book on how to sell that goes beyond traditional sales tactics and offers a fresh perspective on driving sales growth, then The Sales Acceleration Formula is a must-read. Get ready to revolutionize your sales approach and propel your business to new heights!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about how to sell are an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their sales skills and achieve success in their career. Whether you are a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, these books offer practical advice, proven strategies, and valuable insights from experts in the field. From mastering the art of persuasion to building strong relationships with customers, each book provides actionable tips that can be implemented immediately. So, if you want to take your sales game to the next level, be sure to add these books to your reading list!