Selling Things by Orison Swett Marden and Joseph Francis MacGrail

" Selling Things" by Orison Swett Marden and Joseph Francis MacGrail is a guide on salesmanship written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the principles and techniques crucial for being an effective salesman, highlighting the demand for skilled salespeople at the time. It aims to provide practical advice for individuals looking to excel in sales, emphasizing the importance of training, personality, and approach when engaging with customers. The opening of the text emphasizes the high demand for competent salespeople in every field, making a case for the necessity of training and skill development in sales. Marden begins with a vivid anecdote about the qualities of a successful salesman, likening the necessary skills to a person who can "swim," metaphorically suggesting that true sales professionals can navigate challenges and deliver results. He stresses that being a great salesman requires more than just natural ability; it also involves persistence, initiative, and the willingness to learn from experience. The chapter invites readers to understand that with dedication and the right training, anyone can become a successful salesman, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of sales techniques and strategies in the subsequent chapters.