How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling

How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling is hands down the best sales book I have ever read, and one I will return to again and again. Frank Bettger’s story is incredibly relatable, inspiring, and packed with timeless wisdom. His transformation from a struggling salesman to a top performer is not just a narrative of success but a practical guide for anyone looking to improve in sales—or in life.What I loved most about this book is how Bettger breaks down complex sales strategies into simple, actionable steps. He shares personal anecdotes, failures, and lessons that resonate deeply, making it feel as though you’re getting advice from a mentor rather than reading a textbook. The principles he shares—such as enthusiasm, setting goals, and developing a winning attitude—are not just theories but proven techniques that can be applied immediately.The writing is straightforward, engaging, and filled with insights that transcend sales. Bettger emphasizes the importance of building trust and relationships, which is crucial not only in sales but in every aspect of personal and professional life. His emphasis on genuine enthusiasm and integrity truly sets this book apart.I highly recommend How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling to anyone, whether you’re a seasoned salesperson or someone just starting out. It’s an easy read, filled with actionable wisdom that will leave a lasting impact. This is not just a book for your bookshelf—it’s one to revisit time and time again for renewed inspiration and guidance.

When I first saw this book, I thought to myself, "why would I buy a book that is so small compared to the others, and includes the word failure in its title"? Thankfully I purchased it anyway because it was one of the best books I've ever read. One that didn't even lull me to sleep since that's what happens when a book gets long winded. I was reading Tom Hopkins' book "How to be a successful salesman" and finished reading this book first! It's truly an amazing book because so much of the principles in it were written over 60 years ago, and it still can be applied today. I'm sure that many of those self help "gurus" such as Anthony Robbins or Robert Kyosaki (I think that's how you spell his last name) have read this book and basically plagiarized it's most important principles while calling it "there own ideas". It truly is one of the better books out there and believe me, there are plenty to choose from. Unfortunately, many of them are real losers but not this one. Mr. Bettger (pronounced bet-cher) uses some his own life experiences which is what makes this book such an easy read because he explains it with so much inspiration and enthusiasm. I guess it's because he uses some of the principles he learned from reading books by the REAL INSPIRATIONAL, if not the original gurus of self help, Napoleon Hill & Dale Carnegie. I tell you, when I started reading this book, I just couldn't put it down. It makes you want to do something right away just as soon as you finish reading it. For example, I've been meaning to loose a little weight (ok maybe alot) for some time, but I never got around to doing it. As they always say, something would always come up. If it wasn't one thing it was another. Well after reading this book, I would've ran to the gym and signed up except that it was about 12 in the morning. So I signed up the next day. I am proud to say that I have lost about 10-12 pounds so far and I'm feeling like a melting snowman. You see my friends, reading this book isn't just for people who are looking for a career in sales. It's a book that inspires anyone who is looking to do something with his life that should have been done ages ago! You just needed that little push and this book can help give you that push. So for anyone who feels his life is in a rut or needs to get a little inspired, or if you're a litte broke and don't have the $10.40 for this book because you just spent $25.00 on the last Anthony Robbins book,(man there's so many of his books) borrow it from someone! I urge you to get this book. As I said before it's an easy read and you can even read it to your children because since it was written 60 years ago, it contains no foul language. And you can "bet your life" on that!

After feeling a little bit dissapointed on my performance and ready to quit my position I knew nowhere to look. I found this book and decided to give it a try; knowing nothing about the author but just going by the reviews. I'll tell you. I do not regret a thing about buying this book and I'm actually glad for doing so.I was ready to quit my sales position in my company and was going to enter a "customer service" position which obviously pays less than sales. I felt dissapointed by my performance and my numbers; I thought I knew the business.It was then when I picked up this book. Even though it was written a bit ago, it still reflects proper techniques and successful sales guides that anyone can easily follow. I didn't know that such a strong but often unimportant word "why" would matter so much. After using this word "why not sir..." I could really get customers to go to the real truth; and of course, I had answers that made 100% sense to those rejections.In a couple of weeks I was able to double my commissions and felt more confident about myself. I started enjoying my job more. I felt like my sales job was a game, and I was the leader on my team! Now if I really want I feel like I can get around any rejections and by just asking "why" you can make the sale. It works! Just ask, "WHY?" And you'll get to the point; eventually your customer will not be able to give you an answer strong enough to justify that "why" and will make the sale. Of course, it doesn't happen all the time, depending on your sales offer and your job and your customers.Anyways, so to keep my story short. If you think you're failing at your sales position please give this book a try. Study it, keep it next to your desk, in your pocket or briefcase. Refer to it any time you need it. Learn that enthusiasm is one of the main keys to selling, and learn to love the customer's property, learn to ask "why?" and to agree with the customer.Frank Brettger wrote this book using real life examples from his own experiences, and he shows you how to put them to use.Think again. If you think you've failed, purchase this book. With very little time and dedication, you'll see real results.