In sales (as in life), things will happen to catch you off guard. In this month’s column, E&P columnist Jeff Sleete relays a story about the time he grabbed the wrong week’s music at the church where he serves as a cantor … and the lesson he took from that about preparation being central to success.

In his article “O Sale-o Mio: What Pavarotti Can Teach You About Mastering the Art of Sales,” Jeff Sleete draws parallels between the discipline of legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti and the dedication required for sales excellence. Sleete emphasizes the importance of continuous self-improvement, urging sales professionals to regularly refine their skills, much like a world-class performer hones their craft. By adopting a mindset of relentless practice and commitment, salespeople can elevate their performance and achieve greater success.

In his article “Look Up!” for Editor & Publisher, Jeff Sleete emphasizes the importance of targeting high-level decision-makers—such as owners, presidents, CEOs, and COOs—during sales calls. He argues that while many sales professionals focus their efforts on mid-level contacts, true authority and budget control reside at the top. By directing sales strategies toward these key individuals, media sellers can more effectively secure approvals and drive substantial business growth. Sleete’s insights encourage sales teams to elevate their approach and engage with those who have the ultimate decision-making power.