The 10 Best Sales Books You Need To Read To Crush Quota in 2023

Are you looking to reduce your learning curve and take your sales skills to the next level? Look no further than sales books written by experts in the field. These books provide valuable insights and personal experiences that can help improve your sales performance without negatively affecting your quota or efficacy.

With so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. But fear not – I’ve covered you with my curated list of the top-ranked sales books. This list covers various topics geared explicitly towards sales professionals, so you can easily find the right sales book, to help you up your sales game.

Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill

Think and Grow Rich is a timeless self-help masterpiece that empowers salespeople to unleash their full potential and attain unparalleled success. Penned by the legendary Napoleon Hill in 1937, this book draws on extensive interviews with the most accomplished figures of his era. 

This is one of the best sales books I have read.

By distilling their wisdom and insights into a robust framework, Hill shows readers how to cultivate the winning mindset and habits of the world’s most successful individuals.

As a renowned American author who has authored several acclaimed works on business success, including Outwitting The Devil and The Law Of Success, Napoleon Hill’s invaluable teachings have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and transform people’s lives.

Why should people read this?

Think and Grow Rich is a groundbreaking book that shatters the myth that formal education is the only path to success. Instead, Napoleon Hill, the mastermind behind this iconic work, asserts that a winning mindset is equally crucial for achieving one’s dreams.

In his meticulous analysis of the world’s most accomplished individuals, Hill unveils a treasure trove of robust methods and techniques that can transform readers’ thinking and enable them to achieve unparalleled prosperity.

 By unlocking the secrets of the human mind and sharing invaluable insights into the mindset of the most successful people in history, Think and Grow Rich has become a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and empower millions worldwide.

Reader Review

“Second time reading this book, and for me, it’s a ‘must read’ if you want to develop all areas of your life.

Yes, some of its a bit dated – it was published in the early 20th century – however, the lessons and principles are still applicable for the 21st century, for now, the PRESENT!

When I first stumbled on this book a few years back, I saw how ‘The Secret,’ the movie about the Law of Attraction, came about. This is the secret of using your thoughts and believing them, having faith.” – Taiwo Williams.

Verdict 

One of the things that impressed me the most about this book is the way that Hill weaves practical advice with inspirational stories and examples from some of the most successful people in history.

He covers everything from having a clear vision and setting specific goals to the power of persistence and taking action.

What I found most valuable about “Think and Grow Rich” was the emphasis on the importance of mindset. Hill stresses the importance of developing a positive mental attitude and provides practical tips and exercises for cultivating the mindset necessary for success in any field.

Overall, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a professional looking to take your career to the next level, or someone wanting to achieve more, “Think and Grow Rich” is an absolute must-read. 

The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation by Matthew Dixon & Brent Adamson

If you want to master the art of sales and drive revenue growth in your company, then “The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation” is a game-changing must-read.

This book is not just another sales guide; it’s a transformative approach to understanding and engaging with customers that will revolutionize your sales strategy.

Written by sales experts Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson, who work for the highly respected advisory firm CEB, Inc., “The Challenger Sale” is based on extensive research and real-world experience.

It gives sales executives a deep understanding of what motivates customers to make buying decisions and how to leverage this knowledge to take control of the customer conversation.

But this book goes beyond just understanding your customers; it also delves into what makes some salespeople more successful than others.

Dixon and Adamson reveal the five key characteristics of top-performing salespeople and provide actionable strategies for developing these traits in yourself and your team.

If you’re serious about growing your business and becoming a successful salesperson and guru, then “The Challenger Sale” is an absolute must-read.

The insights and strategies in this book will transform how you approach sales and help you achieve unprecedented success.

So don’t wait – dive into this book today and start taking control of the customer conversation!

Why should people read this?

Unlock the secret to successful salespeople’s success! Dive into this must-read book if you’re eager to gain insight into the sales industry and discover why some salespeople consistently outperform others.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your sales abilities and steadily elevate your product-led growth sales process using the knowledge you will gain. Take your sales game to the next level!

Reader Review

“I loved the premise of this book. Without any question, I agree with the message that the authors present. Salespeople must evolve into consultants and teachers who challenge the customer and force a conversation about goals and insights.”–Jacob.

Verdict

This book was a game-changer in my approach to customer conversations.

The authors’ research-based approach to sales is both thought-provoking and practical. 

They challenge traditional sales methods and encourage sales managers and readers to shift their focus from simply pushing products to providing value through insightful conversations.

In addition, I appreciated their emphasis on building customer trust and credibility by offering unique perspectives and challenging their preconceptions.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book was the real-world examples and success stories of salespeople who have implemented the Challenger approach. The authors’ evidence-based insights, combined with these stories, make the book engaging and informative.

Cracking the Sales Management Code: The Secrets to Measuring and Managing Sales Performance by Jason Jordan and Michelle Vazzana

Discover the ultimate guide to achieving outstanding business results through sales performance with this powerhouse book by Jason Jordan and Michelle Vazzana.

With Jason’s economics degree from Duke University and Michelle’s expertise in sales agility and management research, this book offers unparalleled insights and actionable steps for success as the ultimate sales machine.

This book delves into every critical process that drives sales performance, from building a winning team to selecting the right metrics for your business objectives.

Packed with key takeaways and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to take their sales game to the next level and achieve unparalleled success

Why should people read this?

Packed with actionable advice, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their sales performance and achieve outstanding business results.

This book provides a comprehensive roadmap for success, from the sales conversation and defining your objectives to mastering essential sales skills, metrics, and tools.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting, the insights and strategies presented in this book will help you take your sales game to the next level.

If you’re ready to transform your sales cycle and achieve unparalleled success, this book is the guide you’ve been waiting for. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from the best and unlock your true sales potential.

Reader Review

“I wish someone had given this book to me several years ago. The authors start with thinking about metrics that can bring more rigor to sales and classify the ~300 most commonly used sales metrics into Results Metrics, Objectives Metrics, and Activities Metrics.”–Akshay.

Verdict

This book is an absolute gem for sales management, and I highly recommend it.

The authors have done a fantastic job of breaking down the complex world of sales management into simple and actionable steps.

The book provides a comprehensive framework for measuring and managing sales performance based on the authors’ extensive research and experience in the field.

What I particularly appreciated about this book was its emphasis on data-driven decision-making. The authors make a compelling case for the importance of using data to make informed decisions about sales performance and provide practical guidance on how to do so effectively.

This is a refreshing departure from the all-too-common approach of relying on gut instinct and intuition.

Another aspect of the book that I found valuable was its focus on the role of sales management in driving organizational success. The authors argue that effective sales management is a crucial driver of overall organizational performance. They provide numerous examples of companies leveraging sales management to achieve their goals.

Overall, “Cracking the Sales Management Code” is an excellent resource for anyone involved in sales management. It is well-written, well-researched, and provides practical and actionable advice for improving sales performance. I recommend it to anyone looking to take their sales management skills to the next level.

To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others by Daniel H. Pink

Prepare to have your beliefs shattered as you delve into Daniel H. Pink’s eye-opening book, To Sell Is Human. Through extensive research, Pink debunks common misconceptions about selling and reveals why it’s a skill that’s essential in today’s world. Brace yourself as 

Pink shows how you are always selling yourself and your ideas to others, regardless of your profession. Pink’s expertise extends beyond just sales with six books under his belt, including bestsellers like Drive and A Whole New Mind.

His articles on business and technology have been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Wired.

Why should you read this book?

If you’re in a sales team and aspire to master persuading others, this book is a must-read. It offers valuable insights on selling ideas, pitching a new product-led growth concept, or negotiating a raise with your boss. 

With its practical lessons and proven sales strategies throughout, this book has the power to transform your sales skills and take your career to new heights. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to unlock your full potential and become a master communicator – grab this book today!

Reader Review

“This is another great book by Dan Pink. I recommend everyone read for an improvement in their everyday interactions”.–Will Ducey.

Verdict

The main takeaway from the book is that selling is no longer just the domain of salespeople. In today’s world, we are all in sales. Pink argues that understanding the art of selling is critical for success.

What I particularly liked about this book was the research-backed insights and practical tips that Pink provides.

For example, he explains how to become more effective at selling by understanding human nature, using the right words and body language, and listening actively.

He also emphasizes the importance of empathy and building rapport with customers.

One of my most valuable takeaways was Pink’s concept of ‘servant selling,’ where the focus is on helping the customer rather than just making a sale. This approach aligns with ethical and sustainable business practices that are increasingly important today.

Overall, I highly recommend ‘To Sell Is Human’ to anyone looking to improve their sales skills or gain a new perspective on persuasion. 

The Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer

Prepare to supercharge your sales career with The Little Red Book of Selling, one of the best-selling classic sales books ever. Packed with advanced selling strategies and techniques for sales cycles, this book is overflowing with ideas, insights, and inspiration to help you become a top-notch salesperson.

With Jeffrey Gitomer as your guide, you’ll discover a proven approach to selling anything to anyone and achieve tremendous success in your sales career. 

Gitomer’s expertise is unmatched as an accomplished American author, professional speaker, and business trainer. He shares his wisdom in multiple best-selling books, including The Sales Bible, Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, and Customer Loyalty is Priceless. So don’t wait to start your successful sales career and journey with The Little Red Book of Selling and Gitomer’s syndicated column “Sales Moves,” featured in over 80 business publications.

Why should you read the book?

Discover practical strategies for qualifying prospects and achieving your sales goals while mastering the art of persuasion and influence in your sales conversations. Then, take your cold-calling skills to the next level and learn the crucial role of time management in successful product-based selling. Don’t miss out on this must-have resource for sales professionals looking to excel in their craft!

Reader Review

“This isn’t just a book one reads. It’s a book one carries around as a reference, like a dictionary.”– Ron Graham.

Verdict

This book is a goldmine of sales wisdom and practical advice from which any sales professional can benefit.

What I loved most about this book is how Gitomer presented his ideas clearly and concisely, making them easy to understand and apply to my sales approach. He covers many topics, from the importance of building relationships with prospects to the power of storytelling in selling.

One of the standout chapters for me was “The Elements of Value,” which delves into how customers perceive value and how we, as salespeople, can tailor our approach to meet their unique needs. This was a real eye-opener for me and has already positively impacted my sales performance.

Overall, I highly recommend “The Little Red Book of Selling” to anyone looking to up their sales game. Gitomer’s insights are practical, actionable, and backed up by years of experience in the field. So whether you’re a seasoned sales veteran or just starting out, this book is a must-read.

Influence: Science and Practice by Robert Cialdini

Get ready to unlock the secrets of sales psychology with Cialdini’s groundbreaking book. Delve into the decision-making process and uncover the hidden factors that drive our purchasing behaviors. With his expert analysis of behavioral economics and a focus on product-based selling, Cialdini offers invaluable advice on how to master the art of persuasion in your daily life.

Discover Cialdini’s robust principles and learn how to apply them to your conversations, effortlessly convincing others to see things your way. With his vast knowledge and experience as a professor of psychology and marketing at Arizona State University, Cialdini is an internationally recognized speaker and psychologist sought after by top corporate leaders.

If you want to become a master of your sales tactics and persuasion, Cialdini’s book is an absolute must-read. With many readers already under his belt, there’s no doubt that his insights will change the way you think about selling and communicating forever.

Why should people read this?

Get ready to be fascinated by this groundbreaking book’s incredible scientific and psychological insights. Drawing on years of experience in the field of influence, the author presents a wealth of invaluable knowledge that will revolutionize how you interact with others daily.

With an extensive background in scientific studies on this topic, the author has carefully crafted a must-read book that offers unparalleled insights into the workings of human behavior.

Whether you’re interested in sales methodology or simply looking to improve your communication skills, this book is essential.

With its eye-opening revelations and practical advice, this book will help you understand the subtle nuances of human interaction and give you the tools you need to succeed in any situation. So don’t miss out on this opportunity to unlock the secrets of influence and take your interpersonal skills to the next level.

Reader Review

“This book can’t be summarized…it can be very strongly recommended”–Sundeep.

Verdict

This book is packed with fascinating insights into the science of influence and the psychology behind human behavior.

Cialdini’s years of experience in the field of influence shine through as he expertly breaks down the subtle nuances of human interaction and reveals the secrets to successful persuasion. His scientific studies and real-world examples make this book both informative and engaging.

One of the things I appreciated most about this book was its practicality. Cialdini doesn’t just present abstract theories; he offers concrete advice and actionable strategies for improving your communication skills and becoming more influential.

Overall, I highly recommend “Influence: Science and Practice” to anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior or improve interpersonal skills. Whether in sales, management or just looking to improve your relationships, this book is a valuable resource you won’t miss.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck

This groundbreaking book takes a step-by-step approach to understanding the importance of mindset in achieving success.

Author Carol Dweck identifies two distinct types of mindsets – fixed and growth – and presents compelling evidence that those who adopt a growth mindset experience greater motivation, willpower, satisfaction, and success in all areas of their lives.

If you’re ready to take your life to the next level, “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” is the ultimate resource. With its powerful strategies and real-world examples, this book will help you develop the growth mindset you need to succeed in any area of your life.

Why should you read the book?

This book inspires readers to reexamine their sales strategy and make necessary adjustments to achieve tremendous success. By adopting a growth mindset and leveraging the power of psychology, business owners can unlock the full potential of their sales team and drive revenue growth.

Reader Review

“Excellent book. This one sounds like a typical self-help book, but it’s a real find. The author is a psychology researcher at Columbia, and her book is filled with insights and illustrations regarding the differences between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset when applied to business, parenting, school, and relationships.”–Micheal.

Verdict

This book is a must-read for anyone looking to achieve tremendous success in their personal or professional lives.

What I appreciated most about this book was its practicality. Dweck offers a wealth of actionable advice and strategies for developing a growth mindset, from changing how you think about failure to creating a love of learning.

As a psychologist and professor at Stanford University, Dweck is an expert in motivation and personality. Her insights into the psychology of success are truly invaluable, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read her work.

In conclusion, if you want to achieve tremendous success and fulfillment, “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” is the book for you. Its powerful insights and practical advice will help you transform your mindset and unlock your full potential. You are highly recommended!

Emotional Intelligence for Sales Success: Connect with Customers and Get Results by Colleen Stanley

This book by Colleen Stanley offers many proven strategies and techniques to help salespeople improve their interactions with customers and close more deals.

With over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and management, Stanley is a highly respected expert in the field. As the president of SalesLeadership Inc., she has helped countless sales leaders and teams achieve success through her sales training and consulting services.

In addition, her deep understanding of the sales industry and her expertise in emotional intelligence make her insights invaluable.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or starting in the industry, “Emotional Intelligence for Sales Success” is a must-read. It offers a roadmap for improving your emotional intelligence and leveraging it to build stronger relationships with customers, close more deals, and achieve tremendous success in sales.

Why should people read this

By reading this book, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the power of emotional intelligence and learn practical strategies for improving your sales skills.

With a focus on building stronger relationships with customers, you’ll discover how to connect with them on a deeper level and create a lasting impression.

As suggested in this book, you’ll be better equipped to succeed in today’s competitive sales environment by improving your emotional intelligence and sales strategy. 

Reader Review

“An interesting read. A book about self-awareness and introspection when dealing with, and encountering customers and situations. One must have the ability to recognize one’s emotions and choose the correct reaction to them.”– Angela Alfonso.

New Sales. Simplified: The Essential Handbook for Prospecting and New Business Development by Mike Weinberg

We all strive to close deals and end our sales processes on a high note. However, achieving this can be a time-consuming task. That’s where New Sales come in – this book can help you attract potential customers and retain and grow your customer base.

Packed with essential insights, New Sales highlights various vital points that can help create loyal customers.

In addition, it provides in-depth details on implementing a customer-focused sales process, enabling you to pursue a winning sales strategy in the long run.

As a Top Sales Influencer recognized by Forbes, the author Marc Weinberg has distilled all of his experience and expertise into this book. With New Sales, you can improve your prospecting process and elevate your sales game.

Why should people read this?

Packed with real-life stories and case studies, it offers practical advice to implement immediately.

This book features several action-oriented items that can be effortlessly executed in the market. Whether you’re a top sales rep, team member, or manager, you’ll find real-world techniques to boost your sales throughout business development.

This invaluable resource prepares you to take your sales game to the next level.

Reader Review

“This is an excellent book about sales prospecting and new business development. The author offers specific advice with things you can do and examples.”–Jerry.

Verdict

This book is excellent for anyone looking to improve their sales skills. The book is filled with practical advice that can be implemented immediately, thanks to the real-life stories and action-oriented items it includes.

Weinberg’s experience and expertise in the field of sales are evident in how he presents the book’s content. His insights into prospecting and new business development are invaluable, and his tips on creating a customer-focused sales process are actionable and practical.

I particularly appreciated the emphasis on creating loyal customers and pursuing a winning strategy in the long haul. It’s not just about the sales reps closing deals but about building lasting customer relationships.

Overall, ‘New Sales. Simplified’ is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their sales process and boost their sales. Weinberg’s straightforward and practical approach to sales is refreshing and effective, making this book a valuable resource for anyone in the field.

DISCOVER Questions Get You Connected: for professional sellers by Deb Calvert

Deb Calvert’s book, “DISCOVER Questions Get You Connected,” is a must-read for anyone in sales. With over 15 years of experience, Calvert shares her insights on improving sales processes and becoming more effective.

Using her DISCOVER framework, Calvert emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions throughout the sales process.

Each letter in DISCOVER represents a question that can be applied in various stages of the sales cycle, allowing for more meaningful conversations with prospects and customers.

Additionally, the book delves into the importance of building strong customer relationships and developing trust through effective questioning strategies.

Why should people read this

This book delves deep into the concept of SPIN selling and prioritizes sales skills to motivate customers. In addition, it provides a comprehensive guide to defining your objectives and finding the right questions to ask your prospects, enabling you to obtain the necessary answers. This book is a must-read if you’re seeking an in-depth understanding of SPIN selling.

SPIN selling is a technique introduced by sales manager Neil Rackham in his book “SPIN Selling.” The acronym SPIN stands for Situation, Problem, Implication, and Need-Payoff. It’s a consultative selling approach that involves asking the prospect questions to uncover their needs and pain points.

Reader Review

“This book was referred by Jeb Blount as a great (and updated) continuation of the classic SPIN Selling by Neil Rackham. SPIN changed my sales career for the better.”–Tom Carroll

Verdict

Calvert emphasizes the importance of asking sales managers the right questions to build strong customer relationships and provides a practical guide on how to do so.

What I particularly enjoyed about this book is how it goes beyond just the DISCOVER framework and provides valuable insights into building trust and effective questioning strategies. In addition, the real-life stories and examples make it easy to understand and apply the concepts.

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