BIG MONEY!

If there is one person we could learn the art of persuasion from, it has to be Marcus Lim. The former casino rainmaker, who served the highest of high-rollers, has just turned published author sharing his wisdom on hooking whales. We quiz him on his book and his colourful experiences.

- YANNI TAN

Today the CEO of Vault Corporation, which advises integrated resorts on optimising their revenue and managing their governance and compliance practices, Marcus Lim hails from one of the flashiest and most controversial sectors in Singapore. Through his 15-year career in the casino industry here and abroad, he continuously broke sales records (billions, we learnt) and was one of the top salesmen serving high-rollers. And his rags-to-riches story has something to do with his success.

As a "poor" pupil in an elite primary boys school, he hawked comic books and VHS tapes at eyewatering prices to privileged schoolmates. At 12, he made so much money he was taking the taxi everywhere and buying his own toys. He began his wheeling and dealing adulthood as a businessman, making his first million before age 21, before eventually establishing himself in casino marketing.

A hustler is what he is, and he's just written a book called How to Hook a Whale: Secrets of Selling to the Ultra High Net Worth, published by Marshall Cavendish. The goal, it states, is on closing the sale - not just with anyone but the wealthiest and most private. We find out more about the man behind the pages and his tips on making it.

Your book has great lessons on being a good salesperson.

Sales revolves around the art of effective communication and persuasive prowess. Negotiation is a constant part of our everyday interactions. I perceive sales not merely as a transactional act of selling, but as the skill of persuading others to accept your proposition.