This book was recommended reading for my Leadership Class for my MBA program 8 years ago. Unlike some of the other recommendations, Fish and Moving My Cheese for instance, this has some value.
This is an essential updating of "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. He wrote several successful books in the 1930s and 40s (sold 30 million copies). This book's major difference is that is more unabashedly focused on influencing people in order to make money, which is logical since the book is aimed at business people. Carnegie's rules are reiterated: be euphoric if you can and, if you can't, at least don't be negative; respect others and try to make them feel praiseworthy and deserving of recognition; listening is just as important as talking, perhaps more so. Business people are advised that they can be leaders if they realize that the pyramidal structure of the corporation is being replaced by teamwork; and if they set goals and keep them constantly in mind, business people have a good chance of realizing their objectives
What struck me as I was going over it was how central the basic messages are to most of the useful leadership books on the market today. Certainly among the more academic books you will find more material which is inherently useful to higher level leaders/managers and professionals but in the context of middle and line management, the central tenants hold true. To name just two, good listening skills, and trying to see things from the perspectives of others are golden rules from which none of use should deviate.
Indeed, one is almost tempted to say that these are the sort of things that should be taught in schools as components of civics classes except that I am sure many others would agree, schools should concentrate on getting basic skills right before they release students into the world of work.
Thus the book covers the essentials of leadership, from communication, motivating others to tactics on handling criticism. I believe the book is an excellent primer for individuals embarking on a management/leadership role, whether it will be as a coach, a parent, supervisor or CEO. It is worth the read. The stories are interesting and relevant. The chapters on Risk are noteworthy. It's a good book for the money so I totally recommend it to everyone.
Enjoyyyyy!!
Leave a comment for your boy!!
Rony Delgarde
