In this lively and practical book, Goffee and Jones draw from extensive research to reveal how to hone and deploy one’s unique leadership assets while managing the inherent tensions at the heart of successful leadership.
Why Should Anyone Be Led By You? will forever change how we view, develop and practice the art of leadership, wherever we live and work.
The authors argue that inspirational leaders share four shared (unexpected) qualities: Leaders show and reveal their weaknesses, rely heavily on intuition and associated timing, manage with tough empathy (passionately and realistically), and reveal (and capitalize on) their differences. Goffee and Jones discuss each of these qualities in detail, explaining why these qualities are so important and how leaders show them. There is a short history of leadership and a discussion of some popular myths about leadership: 'Everyone can be a leader', 'leaders deliver business results', 'people who get to the top are leaders', and 'leaders are great coaches'. In addition, there is a short discussion on female leadership, whereby the authors' advice is that female leaders should stay true to themselves. The final conclusion of the article is that the four discussed qualities cannot be used mechanically. Their advice to executives is: "Be yourselves - more - with skill."
This article is much in line with the latest thinking in leadership: Emotional intelligence (EQ/EI) is as important, or even more important, than traditional intelligence (IQ). I see big relations with the Harvard Business Review-articles by Daniel Goleman (What Makes a Leader?, 1998) and Jim Collins (Level 5 Leadership, 2001), which also emphasize the softer, emotional side of leadership. I did like this article and would recommend it to people moving into management and MBA-students. My main complaint is that the conclusion of this article is somewhat too simple. The article is written in simple English. Please note that this article runs on Acrobat eBook Reader software and is not a .pdf-file.
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Amazon.com
Hard to believe anything other than luck and maybe fate, never mind a book, can make someone fall in love with you, but oddly enough, Leil Lowndes seems to offer the advice that can do just that in How to Make Anyone Fall in Love with You. The sensation of falling in love comes from a chemical secreted by the nervous system, phenylethylamine (or PEA, as Lowndes calls it, as in "Scientists tell us only PEA-brained people fall in Love"), and the trick is to trigger the manufacture of PEA in your potential love partner, giving him or her the sensation of being in love. Lowndes offers 85 techniques for "Hunters and Huntresses" to capture their "Quarry." Much of what the book offers is common sense--the power of eye contact and compliments--but it's presented in a new way and with such detail that it seems that it can't help but work.
Following some of her advice will have you treading that fine line between nice and obsequious, and at times, this book may sound offensive to some, advising the reader to play what may sound like games. Lowndes is aware of this, and she offers some caveats, but still it is hard to get past advice such as, "Show him you're smart, but remember--not too smart" or "Watch your Quarry's reactions to outside stimuli, then show the same emotions." In all fairness, Lowndes doesn't play favorites: her advice to men and women can be equally appalling. Yet, the relaxed style of this book, presenting solid wisdom with a bit of scientific support, makes this book appealing, and, who knows, maybe it will make you more appealing, too! --Jenny Brown
Book Description
Here, from bestselling author Leil Lowndes, is a surefire guide to love for anyone seeking romantic bliss. In How to Make Anyone Fall in Love with You readers will find 85 techniques based on scientific studies regarding the nature of love, including:
- Finding potential love partners
- Making an unforgettable first impression
- Dodging "love bloopers"
- Establishing sexual rapport
By using these pragmatic, down-to-earth strategies, anyone can turn new or casual relationships into lasting ones--or make current relationships deeper.
Customer Reviews:
A good read, but not a dummy's guide........2007-09-23
I purchased this book and the online instant view. The instant view wasnt worth the $2.00 because you cant print or save.
The book is good, though i havent read much of it.
I have one complaint. The book isnt an easy read. Usually you must read 4 or 5 pages to understand the authors point or seduction tip. I really would have prefered a short, to the point, version of this book. She gives 100 or 200 seduction tips, but then she talks on and on about stories or the details on why it may work etc. Some of her conclusions are speculative.
Dating Techniques.......2007-09-21
The author, Leil Lowndes teaches you dating techniques for men and women. What you should and should not do when you are dating. It comes in 3 CDs. Some of the techniques are quite simple to apply.
This book ROCKS!.......2007-08-17
I also highly recommend another new besteller - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You by Mandy Simons
How to Make Anyone Fall in Love with You.......2007-07-28
Dumb title, I almost didn't pick it up to even look at it when I saw it at the library. Aside from that, it is an excellent book with TONS of useful info that is helpful in connecting with people for any reason, even just talking to a stranger in the checkout line!
It works...I found my love and have been married for 5 yrs........2007-06-13
It is miracle!
I got this book about 6 yrs before from the bookstore. I was so excited when I read all the techniques in the book. At that time, I met a beautiful and smart girl. I applied all the techniques I learned from this book to make her fall in love with me. And it WORKS!! She loves me. AND WE GOT MARRIED!!!
In the coming Oct, we have been married for 5 yrs. We have a 3-yrs old son and are expecting a baby girl to be born in Sept.
I would like to thank the author, Leil Lowndes. My life was changed since I read this book..
Book Description
The Power to Get In deals with the single most common and frustrating problem for anyone who's in business, a job transition, or a move back into the work force: the problem of gaining access to the correct audience. Today, no other skill is as directly connected to your ability to earn a living as the skill of getting in to see the right people. Michael Boylan's step-by-step system, The Circle of Leverage, will help you cut through bureaucracy, identify the people you most need to see, and get in their doors. Anyone with something to sell, abilities to offer, or ideas to present will find this book invaluable.
Customer Reviews:
OK - There are better titles.......2007-07-08
This book is OK but not special. If you are a student of selling and prospecting is a big part of your job it is a decent addition to your library but something less than a must have title. If you own it you may find a nugget or two that will help you.
The best book on getting heard on a favorable basis high up the food chain in B2B sales is: "Value Forward Selling."
That being said this book will have some value for you.
Simply put, here's EXACTLY why this method works..........2007-05-07
Let's cut to the chase...
Get this book for only ONE reason -- the method WORKS because of the way executives THINK + ACT.
They only do that which is most likely to SAVE THEIR OWN SKIN.
They don't care about being right -- but they are PETRIFIED of being wrong.
It is much safer for them to say NO to incoming new ideas (read: YOU).
They can never be wrong if they simply zap all incoming new ideas (you).
This method turns all that around!!!
The so-called Circle of Leverage involves letting SEVERAL execs (in the company you are targeting) know that you have an incoming new idea.
AND letting each of those execs know that you have also notified the OTHER execs (in that same company).
AND telling all of them about all the OTHER companies you are ALSO notifying.
Now you are playing on each exec's FEARS about being WRONG.
Now each exec CANNOT ignore you, because, if they do, and they are WRONG for ignoring you (your incoming new idea is a winner), they KNOW that every OTHER exec will ALSO know about their MISTAKE.
Also, what if ANOTHER company grabs your new incoming idea? -- That also could make them WRONG for ignoring you.
This method changes their response from "I must NOT respond" to "I MUST respond!"
I used it recently to send a proposal to all the big pharma companies. I did get turned down -- but.... here's the thing -- the rejections all came 6 weeks later. Not immediate, form-letter rejections (as would normally be the case).
I'm convinced that, by using this method, the execs HAD to take the time to seriously consider my proposal before responding.
They could not RISK just ignoring my proposal!
Again, execs are not concerned with being right -- they only act out of FEAR of being WRONG.
GET THIS BOOK!
-- TW
"Open Sesame".......2006-04-16
You just got access to your dream opportunity. You made it. You just popped open the door with your own "Open Sesame" secret (though you're no thief). Do you shudder to think what life would be like if you hadn't gotten in?
Believe it-getting the access you need really is that important. At some point (many points) in your career(s), you're going to need to get in front of that person, group, etc. That's the point from which all your skills, knowledge, and brilliant ideas will germinate. If you can't get the access you need, none of that other stuff will matter.
That's why this book is so valuable.
Michael presents a detailed, methodical approach to getting the audience you need: The Circle of Leverage. It's a step-by-step approach that relies on risk-taking and perseverance. The results might be magical, but the process is real. He shows you why you've been shut out in the past (Section One), why you need to take a top-down approach (pp. 45-52), and a realistic discussion of things you can and can't control (pp. 114-122).
The Circle of Leverage uses ten preparation steps (each of which is discussed in a detailed chapter in Section Three) and five execution steps (a detailed chapter on each in Section Four). The remaining two sections take you beyond the meat-and-potatoes (which are very impressive in their own rights). Chapter 33 gives you guidance on what to do once you're in, and Chapter 34 provides real-world context with sample scenarios and case histories.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who sells, because we can all benefit from learning and applying The Circle of Leverage.
Thought prevoking.......2004-04-15
Michael has put some common thoughts on paper, but has drilled down to their importance inthe sales process. If you go into this with the intention of gaining a leson to add to you collection of resources, you will find this very helpful. If you are looking for the golden egg, sorry but look again.
There is no silver lining in the sales process, but with some sound advice you can dramatically increase your effectiveness which equalls more closed deals. This book gives some very sound advise as to some of the obsticle we as salespeople all face and a means of overcoming them.
I highly recomend this for anyone interested in improving their chances of closing that next deal.
Outstanding augmentation for existing sales processes.......2003-12-25
I am a VP Sales for a technology firm and I only recently read this book. I was so impressed with the innovative material I flew to MN to meet the author! Despite what the negative reviewers have said, this book is NOT a sales manual. It IS a manual for obtaining access. It is an excellent precursor to an existing sales process, but the sales process already needs to be in place. The author uses the term "bolt-on" addition which is a very good visual depiction of how this tool should be used.
Any good executive can tell you how difficult it is to be seen at the appropriate levels. More and more, callers and visitors are sloughed off to the next lower level, and if the caller doesn't have a compelling reason to stay at the executive level, they will invariably continue to be pushed down lower and lower until they are speaking with the lowliest of the non-decision makers, a "recommender." Horrors!
Don't sell this book short. "Getting In" is a master treatise on how to develop and keep access at the C-level. I highly recommend it.
Average customer rating:
- Great Read
- A Must Read!
- One of my favorites of Crusie's
- They can't be that saggy, girlfriend!
- Enjoyable; one last romance before internet era!
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Anyone But You (Hqn Romance)
Jennifer Crusie
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ASIN: 037377138X |
Book Description
For Nina Askew, turning forty means freedom--from the ex-husband, freedom from their stuffy suburban home, freedom to focus on what she wants for a change. And what she wants is something her ex always vetoed--a puppy. A bouncy, adorable puppy.
Instead she gets…Fred.
Overweight, middle-aged, a bit smelly and obviously depressed, Fred is light-years from perky. But he does manage to put Nina in the path of Alex Moore, her gorgeous, younger-by-a-decade neighbor.
Alex seems perfect--he's a sexy, seemingly sane, surprisingly single E.R. doctor--but the age gap convinces Nina that anyone but Alex would be better relationship material. But with every silver-haired stiff she dates, the more she suspects it's the young, dog-loving doc she wants to sit and stay!
Download Description
Nina Askew has always wanted a puppy, but her ex-husband had always refused. Following her divorce and facing her fortieth birthday, she heads to the pound in search of a cute, cuddly, perky puppy to cheer her up. But instead she is drawn toward an older, midsized, seemingly depressed mutt - too big for her apartment, too melancholy for her state of mind, but she can't help but adopt him anyway. With Fred now in her life, everything seems to change - her priorities, her attitude and, unexpectedly, her love life when Fred brings Nina's much younger neighbor, Alex, into the picture. Despite all the waving red flags, Nina allows herself to consider the possibility that maybe somehow he'd miraculously be interested in an older woman with a depressed dog.
Customer Reviews:
Great Read.......2007-10-14
I can't write much more than what has already been written about this book.
The three main characters, Nina, Alex and Fred are extremely likeable and had me hoping that they will eventually become a family from the beginning. The book was about Nina a 40 year old divorced Editor and Alex a 30 year old ER doctor, both trying to find themselves and wanted to enter a intimate relationship, but afraid to ruin their friendship, if things don't work out. Nina is very hung on her age and how she will be able to relate to Alex and how she can compete with the younger women she believes Alex wants.
Alex definitely wants to change the relationship to something more than friendly neighbors, but is concerned that Nina sees him as sometimes immature and uses his age to keep him at arms length. Fred (the dog) plays an important role in introducing the two and keeping them together- I loved the interactions with Fred.
The secondary character (Charity - Nina's best friend & Max - Alex's brother and best friend) add so much to the story without overpowering it, which left me wanting to know more about them as well.
I definitely enjoyed read this book it had me laughing out loud and constantly chuckling.
A Must Read!.......2007-10-06
I adore this story! This is the first book that I've read of Jennifer's, and she definitely didn't disappoint. There's not much to add with what everyone else said, but what I loved about this book was how lovable Nina, Alex, and Fred are. Nina, a recent divorcee, moves to a new place and decides she needs a companion, so she gets herself a 14 year-old dog, which she promptly named Fred. Fred amused me. He loves oreos and a certain bra, but more importantly, he's the one who brought Nina and Alex together. Alex, an ER doctor, tries to find a way to convince Nina that they are good together, but it's hard for him to do so when Nina thinks he's just a kid--though he is 30 to her 40. When they finally do get together, they face some challenges, but they get through it. If you want a fun, humorous, romantic, light read, I definitely suggest this book!
One of my favorites of Crusie's.......2007-09-03
I really, really enjoyed this book!! I discovered Crusie about two years ago, and have thoroughly enjoyed all of her books that I've read so far. Bet Me has been my favorite, Anyone But You is close behind.
As always in a Crusie book, the man and woman have unbelievable chemistry! This, is what I feel keeps me reading, even though I'm not the biggest romance fan, I do enjoy a romance novel now and again. And I feel Crusie's are very tasteful and enjoyable.
I just gave this book to my sister, which I think says a lot for what I think of this book and Crusie's writing. I can't wait for her next book to come out!
They can't be that saggy, girlfriend!.......2007-08-13
Nina Askew married a professional man and put her career on hold for him. She had an expensive house and an upscale lifestyle. Then she got fed up with the married life, living for someone else and having all her decisions made for her. So, now, six months after her divorce, she's sold the big house, moved into a cozy apartment, and started working as an editor again. Only Nina just turned forty and isn't dealing well with it. All she needs is a perky little puppy to cheer her up and keep her company. Enter Fred, part basset hound, part beagle, and on his last day of life. He's not a puppy and he's not perky, but Nina just can't leave him behind knowing she's his last chance. Neither Nina or Fred are too sure about each other at first, but it doesn't take Nina long to figure out that Fred was just what she needed.
Dr. Alex Moore, the thirty year old hottie who's apartment is right below Nina's, has just broken up with Debbie, another in a long line of girlfriends looking to marry a doctor and create a happy family. The problem is Alex doesn't want a family. His family is a dysfunctional disaster. Everyone's a dr, his dad's an alcoholic cardiologist, his stepmom is an recovering speed addict thoracic surgeon, his often engaged half-sister is an oncologist, and his serial dating semi-alcoholic half-brother is a gynecologist and they're putting pressure on him to specialize instead of working in the ER, where he's happy. Then Fred pops in his window and he meets Nina. There's an instant attraction that neither of them is too keen to explore right away. After a failed date, where Nina comes to the rescue, Alex decides he'd really like to get to know Nina better. So he invites himself up to her apartment to watch movies. This becomes a routine and they become fast friends. Unfortunately for Alex, he wants a whole lot more. He's afraid if he makes a move he'll lose what he has with Nina because he's pretty sure Nina sees him as an immature kid. Now he's rethinking his whole career. He's thinking of taking his dad up on a cardiology position so that he'll have money and Nina will see he's getting somewhere. But is that what Nina really wants?
I'll lead off by saying that I liked both lead characters a lot. They seemed very real and like they were good people. I really loved Alex, even when he went a little crazy there and you kind of wanted to smack him upside the head so that he's just snap out of it. He was just so cute ... him and his Daffy Duck shorts. His brother Max was also highly lovable and I hope to see him hook up with Nina's friend Charity in another book. They seemed to hate each other on sight, but I think there might be something there. Nina was great, but I though the whole Incredibra issue was flat out ridiculous! I'm thirty and have had a couple of kids, so the girls aren't where they used to be, but to get that uptight over having your lover see you nekkid? If you can't stand for them to see you sans clothing, then you probably aren't ready to be sleeping with them. Her insecurities were a little overplayed, I think. She just mentioned her forty year old body one too many times for me.
Enjoyable; one last romance before internet era!.......2007-07-03
For me this is a very enjoyable book. I am in Nina's age bracket and had experienced almost identical circumstances (just in a different setting) that she had with her pre-divorce life and post-divorce re-grouping. I loved how her motivation for getting a "puppy" turned into a "rescue" of a Bagle (Bassett-Beagle, for those of us in dog rescue). Moreover, that the dog becomes her staunchest mute ally in garnering attention from her neighbor and love interest Alex and helping them both get over themselves proves how wonderful dogs are for we humans.
This being my first Harlequin book ever, I cheered for Alex' deep compassion and single-mindedness; and for Nina being able to praise her attributes and acknowledge her worth. I also loved love scenes. I think the family troubles were dealt a flat hand and I'm sure Crusie is capable of more developed writing. I really liked the fact that this was written on the cusp of internet dating, matching and online researching; I guess because I went through that transition in my work just as Nina did that I really appreciated that special slice of the end of the 20th century.
Product Description
Peter Montoya is the recognized leader in Personal Branding and The Brand Called You is the definitive work on Personal Branding. Want to make money with less work? Create a Personal Brand that tells customers how you're different from your competition and build your relationships with them daily. The Brand Called You is the ultimate resource for building your Personal Brand, one that sells you, not your product or company. With action plans, insight and case studies, The Brand Called You is your guidebook to getting the best customers, growing your business, and making more money.
Customer Reviews:
Very Helpful!.......2007-01-19
Do you want to brand yourself? This book with provide you with ideas to improve your image to others.
Nuts and Bolts of Branding YOU.......2006-12-06
Peter and Tim have done a fantastic job documenting the nuts and bolts of building your personal brand. Tom Peter's in his ground breaking book Re-Imagine tells us that we need to become our own company and sell ourselves to the corporations and then move on. Peter's tells you the WHY, this book tells you the HOW. They have an excellent section at the end of each chapter that leads you through your own personal brainstorming and gives you tips on mistakes to avoid that can kill you. This book is an easy read and one you will want to keep close to refer to repeatedly as you develop your business.
Buy this book! Five stars out of Five.
Read an outline for this book and the best in business thought at [...]
Es la base para cualquiera interesado en Personal Branding.......2006-10-30
Yo he leido bastante material acerca de marketing para empresarios y para micro empresas, y ahora que leo este libro entiendo el por qué de las diversas recomendaciones que otros autores hacen. Yo creo que este libro es absolutamente necesario, para cualquier micro empresario o profesionista.
I had read a lot about marketing for professionals and micro business, and now I can understand the why of the other author's recommendations. I think this book is a necessity for professionals and micro entrepreneurs.
Kindred Spirit Found in the Power of Branding!.......2006-02-28
What a find! I have been searching for a kindred spirit in the power of branding. And now I have found a kindred spirit in Peter Montoya. Peter not only shares, he promotes the belief that people, not the products and services, produce effective branding! And Peter with Tim Vandehey have written a "world class" primer that I believe is a must read for business owners and professionals who want to realize the power of branding. I strongly recommend the purchase and reading of this book and then putting its advice to work to Brand YOU!
Reviewed by: J. Glenn Ebersole, Jr., Founder & Chief Executive, J. G. EBERSOLE ASSOCIATES and THE RENAISSANCE GROUP (tm), Lancaster, PA. and Author of "Glenn's Guiding Lines - Thoughts From Your Strategic Thinking Coach" newsletter www.renaissanceman4u.com
Consistency Is Key.......2005-08-19
The biggest takeaway from Montoya's book is the need for consistency.
The fact is some experts lose track of the need for a steady hand on the wheel, thereby blurring their "brand" (ugh, that word is far too overused and meaningless; but that's a debate for another day). Whether they are authors, trainers, lecturers, or entrepreneurs (or a combination of each), all signs must point to a consistent image that the expert consciously tries to cultivate.
Some of Montoya's techniques are a bit simplistic and oversold. It is important to remember that readers have the ability to take what works for them and discard the rest. If I get one or two "wow" ideas from a book these days, I consider it a worthwhile read. Montoya's emphasis on consistency was a pertinent "wow" reminder.
Amazon.com
The Internet has made many enterprises easier since its rise to popularity in the mid-90s: book sales, personal correspondence, and, in the case of John Robinson, serial murder. Even before he ever went online, Robinson had forged a life consistent with a killer's profile. Despite being fired and arrested numerous times for fraud and theft, he wriggled out of serious trouble thanks to a smooth charm and cunning intelligence. For decades, Robinson's more sinister activities escaped the notice of nearly everyone, including law enforcement and, incredibly, his own wife. But what makes Robinson's story, as told here by John Douglas and Stephen Singular, uniquely disturbing is the presence of the World Wide Web and the ease with which a murderer can use it. Online, Robinson frequented chat rooms and sites dedicated to the lurid underground world of bondage and sadomasochism. In this anonymous space, he was free to assume honey-tongued new identities that he used to lure women, especially those in vulnerable situations, to Kansas with promises of employment, protection, or sex. Their subsequent disappearances were explained away with letters that appeared to be written by the victims but were actually typed by the killer on pieces of paper the women had previously signed. Ultimately, dogged law enforcement officials were able to catch up with Robinson and put him on trial after finding gruesome evidence of his deeds. While they are skilled true-crime writers, Douglas and Singular occasionally stray into hyperbole, which is far from necessary given the elements already present in Robinson's horrifying story. It is likely that any reader will walk a little more warily by their computer after reading this book and getting an idea of who might be hiding behind a given nickname. --John Moe
Book Description
Legendary FBI profiler and #1 New York Times bestselling author John Douglas explores the shocking case of John Robinson, a harmless, unassuming family man whose criminal history began with embezzlement and fraud -- and ended with his arrest for the savage murders of six women and his suspected involvement in at least five disappearances. Most disturbing was the hunting ground in which Robinson seduced his prey: the world of cyberspace. Haunting chat rooms, targeting vulnerable women, and exploiting the anonymity of the Internet, his bloody spree was finally halted by a relentless parole officer who spent ten years trying to nail Robinson as a cold-blooded killer.
A cautionary tale set in a virtual world where relationships are established without the benefit of physical contact, and where mainstream Americans can be drawn down a dark path of temptation and death, Anyone You Want Me To Be is a contemporary real-life drama of high-tech crime and punishment.
Download Description
"JOHN DOUGLAS -- THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF MINDHUNTER AND THE UNDISPUTED MASTER PROFILER OF SERIAL CRIMINALS -- TELLS THE CHILLING TRUE STORY OF JOHN ROBINSON, THE INTERNET'S FIRST SERIAL MURDERER. In Olathe, Kansas, a balding, pudgy father of four sits in prison convicted on three counts of homicide -- two of capital murder -- and suspected in at least five other disappearances. During the last half of the 1990s, John Robinson exploited the Internet's active world of sadomasochism with horrific results. By haunting chat rooms, he pinpointed vulnerable women who were looking for romance and stalked them on-line, nefariously convincing them of his maturity, sensitivity, and financial stability. He seemed like the perfect man. He enticed these women with offers of a solid relationship and a lucrative job, persuading them to move to his hometown. Once they arrived in Kansas, the women invariably disappeared. After a dramatic trial and days of intense jury deliberation, Robinson now faces the death penalty. Disturbing as his crimes may be, what's most alarming is how he selected and lured his victims and how willingly they responded. John Robinson expanded the hunting ground, the techniques, and the technology of the sexual predator. He is the world's first-known Internet serial killer. Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and the coauthors of Anyone You Want Me to Be have struggled to unravel the enigma that is John Robinson.
Customer Reviews:
Was John Robinson a true serial killer?.......2007-09-18
After all, it has been said (by Mr. Douglas or someone else - I can't remember which) that 'Night Stalker' Richard Ramirez wasn't. In Mr. Robinson's case the same elements are present -- and the same elements are missing.
Both of these guys were nasty SOB's. But Ramirez's killings weren't sexually based. He didn't go around killing people for the gratification it got him, nor did he have a need to go out and kill again when the gratification from the last killing dissipated. He was fundamentally a burglar. If he picked the wrong house and someone walked in, he'd kill out of sheer spite -- or he'd run away. Or if a woman was home, he'd commit a rape of opportunity -- or he'd just slap her around and let her go. All serial killers are sociopaths, but not all sociopaths are serial killers.
John Robinson's contribution to us was a dandy of a demonstration as to how the internet could be used by a serial killer to lure his victims to him, rather than make him have to roam about looking for them. Mr. Robinson's winning formula is that he's a con artist, a scammer, a swindler. He's also into BDSM sex -- probably another way his desire to manipulate/dominate/control shows up. But his killings don't follow naturally as a result as they would with a true serial killer.
Linkage blindness alert: old wives tales about sexual minorities. Remember the one about how 'all homosexuals (gay men specifically) molest children'? Or how a lesbian can be easy -- and indeed, a wild woman in bed who'd challenge your sexual prowess -- if just the right guy makes just the right advance? These came about because of the sort of thinking that equates other-than-strictly-hetero sexual practices with a fulfillment issue -- 'any guy who'd use another man for gratification (or allow another man to use him as one would a woman) will do anything to get off . . .', or 'any woman who'd use another woman just needs a guy to satisfy her: the problem is, not every guy has what it takes . . .'. Not necessarily true. Nor is it true that BDSM has to culminate in sexually-based homicide, or even accidental death or serious injury from playing risky games with those whips and chains and spiked dog collars. (If BDSM is indeed as popular as this very book would have us believe -- and I don't doubt that -- then you'd see a lot more bodies turning up if more than a very, very small minority of its practitioners engaged in practices that resulted in death or high risk of death or serious injury). I point this out, however, because a) those in behavioral science agree that linkage blindness is sometimes a problem and b) I've indeed seen investigators reach bad conclusions by linking things that had no correlation, or by missing significant links that were indeed there. That they know to watch for the error doesn't make them immune from making it.
Evidence that Mr. Robinson't killings weren't sexually based?
First, the number of women that he lured into his web that he let go, that he didn't kill. Barbara Sandre. Alecia Cox. Vickie Neufeld. Jeanna Milliorn. (In Neufeld's and Milliron's case, even late in the series). Others.
Second, the missing pieces in Robinson himself. We see no elements of the 'homicidal trial' in his early life. We see a long record of fraud schemes and con games, but no nuisance sex offenses other than the occasional risque crack to a woman neighbor.
Third, there is no indication of ritual elements in the way the killings were carried out, nor in Robinson's postoffense behavior. True, it's odd that he kept the bodies in 55-gallon barrells on his properties, but for souvenir value? Or perhaps because he'd given no thought as to a better way to dispose of them. Or because they were so heavy that moving them would require an accomplice -- and a potential witness against him if things went wrong later.
Finally, all of the killings were disorganized. A hammer blow, or the use of some other blunt instrument to the head in each case? There are less messy ways of doing the job of intentional, premeditated murder.
More likely, one by one, these women got out of control somehow, caught on to the fact they were being used, caught on to who was picking up the alimony checks and disability checks at the Mail Room and cashing them. Or maybe they just wanted out, but knew too much to be let go without putting Robinson at risk. A confrontation occurred. And each of the killings in turn was Robinson's response to just that thing going wrong, his need to cover up his activities and his frauds (the discovery of which would no doubt lead to an investigation and the discovery of his double life).
Indeed, if the killings were done to cover up other crimes, that's a different classification of murder; not the sexually-based killings that are the mark of true serial killers.
The killings followed in sequence, and were related to, someone's need for kinky sexual gratification. But they weren't part of that need. They didn't happen as even a result, never mind a necessary result, of Robinson's sick kinky sex games. They didn't necessarily follow.
This one is like the Susan Smith tragedy in South Carolina, which I reinvestigated in more detail. The pieces go together if you hook them together one by one, as in the old 'Barrel of Monkeys' game that was popular in the '60's. But just because someone did that doesn't mean that one thing follows the next naturally, that the next thing that occurred had to occur because the last thing that happened happened. They only follow in sequence because someone hooked them together in a way that made sense at the time.
Here, we have a string of related killings that follow sexual exploitation. Accordingly, we naturally assume a serial killer. But it doesn't add up to how we define a serial killer.
Unlike Susan Smith's story, the moral of the story is still the same. If Robinson had indeed been a true serial killer, his ability to lure his victims via the Internet would be exactly what you would see happening. As for Robinson himself (again, unlike Susan Smith), he still did it (and quite intentionally), he still got exactly what he had coming to him for what he did, and he doesn't have my shoulder to cry on. He may escape execution, but he belongs in prison, forever, finally, keep him there, lock him up and weld the door shut. Period. For the victims and their families, it's still not a happy ending, but justice prevails.
And when criminal behavioral science experts make a mistake, it's easy for someone, somewhere to catch if they don't simply accept his work without question. It's going to happen once in awhile. We all have our bad days on the job.
John Douglas has done some great stuff, and I admire his work, but this isn't one of his better pieces.
A horrific tail....I can't believe this really happened.......2007-09-03
This is a fast paced true Crime novel about the murderer John Robinson, who started off his criminal career with fraud and embezzling money. Later as the Internet became more popular he would surf the net looking for his victims. Finding women who he could lure into his sadistic life.
This book has some really graphic parts and also deals with the world of S&M, getting into detail about his relationships with some of the girls and how he made them sign slave contracts.
Once again it is amazing to see what someone can accomplish and get away with for so many years just by being a smooth talker and knowing how to read other people. Compiling more and more information on them through casual conversations and then using that knowledge against them. Quite sick. Makes you really think about how much information you give out over the internet, do you really know who you have been talking too???
This book also contains 8 pages of photos of John Robinson and some of his victims.
Cyberspace: The Hunting Ground!.......2007-08-18
It is sickening to think that a family man as Robinson was able to sustained a family--a household-- and at the same time committed hideous crimes. Robinson used cyberspace as his hunting ground alluring vulnerable young women and take them into his world of sadomasochistic and sex-slavery, financially robbed them and ultimately killed them. In cyberspace, he portrayed himself as a charming, successful businessman, "claiming whoever he wanted to be." It was unfortunate that many fell for it. The story was engrossing at the same time horrific and plain gross. While this type of crime is less likely to occur in this generation, we are now facing another revolution of crime such as identity theft, phishing, bank fraud, cyberterror and child pornography. Hopefully, the Robinson's case is a cybercrime history that will never repeat itself, for it involved many precious lives. As a writer, this book is very helpful. It allowed me to take a peek at the mind of a psychopath and how he eluded the authorities. Cold Eyes
book purchase.......2007-01-15
I received this item in a timely manner and it is in womderful condition.
Factual but interesting.......2007-01-04
I got this book on a tip from a friend regarding a name in it. It was so well written that I read it cover to cover. Didnt think I would like the subject matter but it was written using all aspects of the case. And of course it had a good ending.......the culprit caught and convicted. The fact there was so much left unsolved has me intrigued if there will be a sequel to this book in the future??
Book Description
Are the people who report to you giving you their best? Is your team--whether a group of employees, a classroom of students, or your family--performing at its fullest potential? NFL coaching legend Don Shula and renowned business consultant Ken Blanchard team up in Everyone's a Coach to share their secrets for inspiring others to greatness. At the heart of their book is a simple acronym that describes the qualities of an effective leader: -Conviction-driven--never compromise your beliefs. - Overlearning--practice until it's perfect. - Audible-ready--know when to change. - Consistency--respond predictably to performance. - Honesty-based--walk your talk. Using an effective "tag-team" approach, Shula and Blanchard personally "unpack" the five leadership secrets behind this acronym. First, Shula tells you how each coaching concept worked on the field. Then, Blanchard explains how to apply that concept to your leadership situation. Complete with a self-test for measuring your personal coaching effectiveness, Everyone's a Coach will help you unleash the excellence in anyone.
Customer Reviews:
Hits the Spot!.......2004-04-08
What makes this book so effective is that the advice offered is not only solid, but it can be applied immeditely. It's a "hands on" doer's guide. The strength Ken Blanchard brings is his strong Christian influence. Shula's credentials consist of his long term track record as an NFL coach. In this book Shula describes how he leads by example and thorough preparation.
One place this book separtes itself from books of this genre is that it emphasizes "follow through" as contrasted with goal-setting. That's an action focus. It puts the spotlight on doing something.
A Coaching Legend's Leadership Lessons.......2003-12-29
Don Shula, the National Football League's all-time winningest coach, teamed up with Ken Blanchard, the internationally known and multiple award-winning author, educator, and management and leadership consultant, and together they co-wrote an outstanding book about leaders getting the best performance from the individuals and organizations they are privileged to lead. Whether you are responsible for the performance of multiple organizations, or for just one other individual, the leadership wisdom and insights in this book can help you maximize your coaching and leadership effectiveness.
The winning combination of the two separately distinguished leaders in their respective fields, and the complementary structure of the book were brilliant. Organized around the acronym C.O.A.C.H., the five coaching "secrets" that Shula had practiced and Blanchard has been teaching for over 30 years, the book alternated synergistic passages from Shula then Blanchard to explore and explain the acronym in theory and practice from the football gridiron to modern business situations, and ultimately to the game of life.
Here's how Shula and Blanchard define and think about the acronym C.O.A.C.H.:
Conviction-Driven: Effective leaders stand for something.
Overlearning: Effective leaders help their teams achieve practice perfection.
Audible-Ready: Effective leaders, and the people and teams they coach, are ready to change their game plan when the situation demands it.
Consistency: Effective leaders are predictable in their response to performance.
Honesty-Based: Effective leaders have high integrity and are clear and straightforward in their interactions with others.
Conviction-Driven: "Someone has said that a river without banks is a puddle. When I apply that saying to human interactions, it reminds me of the job of a coach. Like those river-banks, a good coach provides the direction and concentration for performers' energies, helping channel all their efforts toward a single desired outcome. Without that critical influence, the best achievements of the most talented performers can lack the momentum and drive that make a group of individuals into champions."
Overlearning: "To me a game doesn't end when the clock finally runs out. It ends on Monday, after we've analyzed every play and learned all we cana from it...Failure is successfully finding out what you don't want to repeat...Learning is defined as a change in behavior. You haven't learned a thing until you can take action and use it."
Audible-Ready: "Preparation means everything to me. I'm passionate about my players being ready for anything. Now, part of being ready is being able to shift your game plan at will. I see myself as a battlefield commander who has the guts to make the right moves to win. I want to be prepared with a plan - and then to expect the unexpected and be ready to change this plan. I must preserve the right to change - even to change at the last moment - as circumstances demand...Audibles aren't surprises - just new ways of doing what you already know how to do. Business people need to learn to call audibles, because in today's world, nothing stays the same."
Consistency: "Your team will soon learn what your standards are and perform accordingly. I not only insist on practice perfection, I'm there to see that it takes place. I don't miss practices. I need to be out there smelling out whatever isn't working. Even the slightest deviation from perfection needs to be noticed and corrected on the spot. Correcting and redirecting performance is strategically important - it's where we outstrip the competition. Some coaches will let little things go. Right there is where the difference is made. To me, it's not a matter of how many times we've done it or how late it is or how tired the players are. We'll do it until we get it right. Then we won't deviate from it in the game. I'd rather throw out a play or formation during practice than find out it can't be done correctly in the ball game. We seldom try anything on game day that we haven't been able to perfect in practice. If I'm asking our players to do something they can't do, I want to know about it now."
Honesty-Based: "I have a straight-up approach. I don't know how to go around corners or how to finesse. My players know this and they expect candor from me. Congruence is important to me. What you see with Don Shula is what you get. I don't play games. Effective coaches confront their people, praise them sincerely, redirect or reprimand them without apology, and above all are honest with them. Integrity pays, and integrity means being honest with yourself and others. This is a key ingredient in my coaching philosophy."
In his introduction to the book, Blanchard stated that he is on a search for simple truths to help leaders and managers be their best. With Shula's proven long-term coaching effectiveness as the foundation for this book, Blanchard has found and shared many simple leadership truths and complexities. This book would be a welcome addition to anyone's coaching or leadership collection.
GREAT BOOK.......1999-02-22
This is a must buy for every coaches library. Coach Shula explores all of the areas a coach is confronted with. He gives the reader his philosophy on coaching and relates it to life's teachings.
Excellent use of examples........1997-08-08
Of the 1000's of books written on leadership in the past 100 years, this one presents a very real picture of world we live in. Too many of the books I've read lately give us the magic formulas to follow, some leading us through a veritable mathematical maze to tell us what kind of leader we are. "Principle-Centered Leadership" by Covey and "The Platinum Rule" fall into this category. What Blanchard and Shula have done, and done quite successfully is to integrate theory with actual examples. While I don't agree with everything that Shula has done, I do applaud his efforts. I do absolutely believe in his philosophy of "Lead by example," and the necessity of developing trust. Both Shula and Blanchard emphasize this aspect of leadership as critical. There are too many so-called leaders in the corporate world who do not lead by example. They are quite willing to demand of you what they are unwilling to do themselves. On top of the quality of the reading, the book is very easy to read. I hi
Book Description
Provides the learning tools needed to absorb new information and sharpen classroom skills.
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- A Breath of Snow and Ashes (Outlander)
- A-List #8, The: Heart of Glass: An A-List Novel (A-List)
- A Perfect Mess: The Hidden Benefits of Disorder--How Crammed Closets, Cluttered Offices, and On-the-Fly Planning Make the World a Better Place
- All-Boy Scrapbook Pages: The Growing Up Years (Memory Makers)
- Allure: Confessions of a Beauty Editor
- America Alone: The End of the World as We Know It
- And If I Perish: Frontline U.S. Army Nurses in World War II
- Barragan: Space and Shadow, Walls and Colour
- Beyond The Shadow of Doubt
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