About The Author

About the Author

Robert Heckel is a seasoned sales strategist, speaker, and author who has spent more than two decades helping professionals succeed in high-pressure environments such as boat shows, expos, and trade events. His career has been built on a deep understanding of what makes people buy. He proves through his in-depth knowledge of the field that it is not just traditional tactics, but genuine connection, trust, and value. Over the years, Robert has guided countless salespeople to move past outdated approaches and follow strategies that resonate with today’s buyers. His style is practical, direct, and focused on results. At the heart of his work lies a simple belief: sales is not about pushing products, it is about telling stories, building trust, and delivering value that lasts. Through his writing, training, and speaking, Robert continues to inspire sales professionals to elevate their craft and achieve lasting success.

Qualifications and Achievements

Robert’s expertise comes from decades of hands-on experience in customer engagement and closing strategies. He is the author of The art of selling boats : the boat show boss. A book that combines practical frameworks, real-world stories, and proven techniques to help salespeople rock in competitive spaces. With more than 20 years in the industry, Robert has trained and mentored professionals across different markets, equipping them with tools to adapt to new generations of buyers. He has also created signature frameworks such as The BOAT Method and The Hail Mary Close, which have become essential resources for sales teams. His reputation as a credible voice in the marine and trade industries has made him a trusted speaker, trainer, and consultant.

Specialization and Expertise

Robert specializes in high-stakes sales environments, especially boat shows and trade events where competition is tough and time is limited. His strength lies in teaching salespeople how to engage quickly, build authentic connections, and create customer experiences that stand out. He is an expert in adapting sales strategies to meet the expectations of Millennials and Gen Z, ensuring that professionals stay ahead of shifting buyer behavior. His training sessions focus on customer psychology, storytelling, and closing strategies that drive measurable results.

Future Goals and Vision

Looking ahead, Robert is committed to shaping the future of sales by preparing professionals for a fast-changing marketplace. His vision is to continue sharing strategies that blend traditional principles with modern techniques, ensuring that salespeople are always equipped to succeed with new generations of buyers. He aims to expand his impact through books, workshops, and keynote sessions that reach global audiences. The future of sales, for Robert, is about deeper trust, smarter connections, and long-term relationships between buyers and sellers. His mission is simple: to equip sales professionals everywhere to grow, adapt, and master the art of selling in any environment.