Comparison of Two Legendary Salesmen
Joseph Samuel Girard holds the Guinness World Record for being the greatest salesman. Between 1963 and 1978, he sold 13,001 cars at a Chevrolet dealership averaging over two cars a day. In 1973 alone, he sold 1,425 cars in one year.
In 2017, Ali Reda surpassed Girard’s record by selling 1,582 cars in one year at a Chevrolet and Cadillac dealership in Michigan. This included 1,530 new and 52 used cars. In 2016, Reda sold 1,300 cars, and in 2015, he sold 1,200.
Sales Techniques and Inspirations
Reda personally handles sales, while his assistant manages paperwork. He draws inspiration from Girard, having read his books to improve. Girard became renowned for his sales skills, with customers traveling to buy cars from him and some waiting days for an appointment.
Impact on Sales Industry
Post-retirement, Girard authored six books on sales techniques, inspiring other top salesmen. Among his notable works is "How to Sell Yourself" published in 1977. Historically, the Ford F-Series pickup has been the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. with 17 million vehicles sold in the country in 2019.