Book Description
A "textbook with passion", Hardwiring Excellence offers a road map and practical how-to guide for creating and sustaining a culture of service and operational excellence. In this book, author Quint Studer, CEO of Studer Group, draws on his personal experience as a former hospital executive who led two organizations to the top 1% in patient satisfaction and his experience coaching hundreds of healthcare organizations since.
Studer, a nationally acclaimed educator, coach, and thought leader in healthcare today, is a master storyteller, mixing "chicken soup style" stories with personal insight, simple tools, and in-depth recommendations on how good organizations can become great ones.
Based on Studer Group's Nine Principles SM, Quint Studer shows how to retain more employees; ensure better customer service; build strong leadership, align organizational values, goals, and results; increase communication; reward and recognize individual success while also requiring accountability; and move operational performance for better financials, market share, and growth.
At the core of the journey, he says, is a sense of purpose, worthwhile work and making a difference. When organizations learn how to harness this passion in their employees, they create a success spiral with ever increasing momentum.
In fact, Richard L. Clarke, FHFMA, President and CEO of Healthcare Financial Management Association says, "Quint Studer's Nine Principles of service and operational excellence provide the missing link between people power and strong financials. It's about courageous leadership."
Customer Reviews:
A Do-It-Yourself Manual to Leadership.......2007-09-19
Leadership and managment roled into one do-it-yourself manual. There are many books out there about management and leadership theory. Theory is important because creates the mindset that is the foundation for success. We are often then put to task creating our own application. Or we could read and implement the systems laid out in Hardwiring Excellence, the singule best book on HOW TO manage and lead to greatness. Could I be any more clear?
While Quint Studer focuses on what he know best, big healthcare, this book can and is being applied to every industry. (I have applied its systems to hospitality, customer service, and production.) The fact that Quint focused on what he does best is a great example of leadership, and an example of how Quint practices what he preaches.
I have the priviliege of living the same city as Quint Studer and interacting with his organization on a regular basis. I can attest that they practice everything they preach and have excelled wilding while doing it.
in anticipation.......2007-09-13
I just re-read this book in anticipation of Quint's new book, Results that Last (I think it's due out in October). The practical recommendations for healthcare leaders found in this book just make sense for leaders in any industry. I am really looking forward to seeing how he builds on these ideas in a book that is aimed at business in general.
Hardwiring Excellence.......2006-11-10
For health care executives who want to see positive, lasting changes in their organizations, a must read. This is a very thorough yet simple guide with explicit instructions and tools for how to get the right people in the right seat and continually doing the right thing for the right reasons. I was pleasantly surprised that the author was able to take such a complex organizational structure and develop simple procedures for achieving excellence. Want safety and quality in healthcare, adopt the principles of this book and you can achieve success. Reads like a novel, well worth the investment in money and time. Our entire management team has read this book and is adopting the principles to ensure all are doing worthwhile work and making a difference each day in someone's life.
Hardwiring Excellence: Purpose, Worthwhile Work, Making a Difference.......2006-11-10
Easy to read and very helpful information for those in the professional realm.
Realistic and Practical.......2006-08-13
This is one of the best "how to" books on management I have read in years. It captures the culture of hospitals (and health care facilities in general) very accurately and the realism lends credibility to the book. He gives authentic scenarios and tells how he and his managers dealt with them. Also, he is realistic in that he includes some tough remedies such as helping someone find opportunities outside the organization when she absolutely poisoned her departmental relationships and refused to change. If you are wanting to change the culture in your organization this book will certainly help you and give you a different perspective. And, although it will be most helpful to health care managers, it will also be applicable to managers in any setting that want to change their culture and become a better, more productive, and more satisfying place to work.
Amazon.com
"The best way to understand the dramatic transformation of unknown books into bestsellers, or the rise of teenage smoking, or the phenomena of word of mouth or any number of the other mysterious changes that mark everyday life," writes Malcolm Gladwell, "is to think of them as epidemics. Ideas and products and messages and behaviors spread just like viruses do." Although anyone familiar with the theory of memetics will recognize this concept, Gladwell's The Tipping Point has quite a few interesting twists on the subject.
For example, Paul Revere was able to galvanize the forces of resistance so effectively in part because he was what Gladwell calls a "Connector": he knew just about everybody, particularly the revolutionary leaders in each of the towns that he rode through. But Revere "wasn't just the man with the biggest Rolodex in colonial Boston," he was also a "Maven" who gathered extensive information about the British. He knew what was going on and he knew exactly whom to tell. The phenomenon continues to this day--think of how often you've received information in an e-mail message that had been forwarded at least half a dozen times before reaching you.
Gladwell develops these and other concepts (such as the "stickiness" of ideas or the effect of population size on information dispersal) through simple, clear explanations and entertainingly illustrative anecdotes, such as comparing the pedagogical methods of Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, or explaining why it would be even easier to play Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon with the actor Rod Steiger. Although some readers may find the transitional passages between chapters hold their hands a little too tightly, and Gladwell's closing invocation of the possibilities of social engineering sketchy, even chilling, The Tipping Point is one of the most effective books on science for a general audience in ages. It seems inevitable that "tipping point," like "future shock" or "chaos theory," will soon become one of those ideas that everybody knows--or at least knows by name. --Ron Hogan
Book Description
"The best way to understand the dramatic transformation of unknown books into bestsellers, or the rise of teenage smoking, or the phenomena of word of mouth or any number of the other mysterious changes that mark everyday life," writes Malcolm Gladwell, "is to think of them as epidemics. Ideas and products and messages and behaviors spread just like viruses do." Although anyone familiar with the theory of memetics will recognize this concept, Gladwell's The Tipping Point has quite a few interesting twists on the subject.For example, Paul Revere was able to galvanize the forces of resistance so effectively in part because he was what Gladwell calls a "Connector": he knew just about everybody, particularly the revolutionary leaders in each of the towns that he rode through. But Revere "wasn't just the man with the biggest Rolodex in colonial Boston," he was also a "Maven" who gathered extensive information about the British. He knew what was going on and he knew exactly whom to tell. The phenomenon continues to this day--think of how often you've received information in an e-mail message that had been forwarded at least half a dozen times before reaching you.Gladwell develops these and other concepts (such as the "stickiness" of ideas or the effect of population size on information dispersal) through simple, clear explanations and entertainingly illustrative anecdotes, such as comparing the pedagogical methods of Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, or explaining why it would be even easier to play Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon with the actor Rod Steiger. Although some readers may find the transitional passages between chapters hold their hands a little too tightly, and Gladwell's closing invocation of the possibilities of social engineering sketchy, even chilling, The Tipping Point is one of the most effective books on science for a general audience in ages. It seems inevitable that "tipping point," like "future shock" or "chaos theory," will soon become one of those ideas that everybody knows--or at least knows by name. --Ron Hogan
Customer Reviews:
Behavior Patterns, Stickiness?.......2007-10-23
This is an interesting study of behavior patterns. The author gives the reader plenty of statistics without the usual dryness. The first example about the hush puppies was odd & overblown. But, the example of why we remember Paul revere instead of William Dawes was logical enough, the former simply knew far more people. The author has a fine ability to draw a connection{James Burke like} between things that appear totally different & yet they intersect. The focus of the book is that there are three points that converge to bring about big changes in society. They are the idea, the folks involved, & the situational environment when it reaches a "tipping point." He classifies these people into three groups, connectors, mavens, & salespeople. The former are the most curious & adaptable. The second are those who desire & have knowledge, while wishing to help others. The latter is obvious, salespeople are great persuaders. Without them we would not have an economy. When these three groups combine their talents societies can change for the better. I think his best point was in the crucial importance of gathering "empirical data about ideas, rather than relying on assumptions & theories." A very different sort of read, that I don't hesitate to recommend.
Easy read.......2007-10-23
I really enjoyed this book, it is a unique and valuable read for anyone who wants a different point of view of the everyday things that we do that can end up making a big difference. I found this easy to read, the stories within are entertaining and captivating. I am also reading BLINK, Gladwell's other book. They are both really fun to read and encourage you to get involved with some creative thinking about the world, how it works and how we work in it. I highly recommend both of them.
Critical Phase Transition.......2007-10-23
The phenomenon is the same everywhere in nature. A critical phase transition looks the same, whether it is an outbreak that becomes an epidemic, a stock that becomes the next Google, or a symbolic act that unleashes a cultural transformation. There is always a highly turbulent period and then a point of bifurcation . . . and then the shift. Mavens, connectors, salesmen . . . these are the word of mouthers that create the critical mass. These are the people to influence. This book really lit a fire in my mind.
also read Superperformance
BLAH BLAH BLAH.......2007-10-20
boring book, and many of the example he uses to prove this theory dont do that. For every example that seemed to make sense, there was another he used that didn't.
Not a good book.......2007-10-18
This is not a good book. The author tries to make the book longer by talking about the same simple idea again and again. Just search on Google and you will get all the ideas in the book. I am not recommending anyone to buy this book.
Book Description
Philip Yancey probes the very heartbeat—the most fundamental, challenging, perplexing, and deeply rewarding aspect—of our relationship with God: prayer. What is prayer? Does it change God’s mind or ours—or both? This book is an invitation to communicate with God the Father who invites us into an eternal partnership through prayer.
Customer Reviews:
Not for the faint of heart.......2007-10-21
Phillip Yancy writes for me only, I believe. My 18 year old son died of cancer 5 years ago. I was raised in a very loving Christian home; I was an excellent Pharisee, we didn't question God or his decisions. After my son died, I had to look harder at what I believed about God. All of his books that I have read let me question without abandoning my faith. I suppose that my absolute favorite is What is so Amazing about Grace. After I read it, I was so relieved; God cannot love me anymore and He cannot love me any less. But I was also ashamed; I do not look at all the people who are not like me as people who God also loves. My actions are not the same unconditional love that recognizes that we ALL have a thirst for someone who loves us. However, if you cannot wonder, you will not like most of his books.
Prayer Does It Make Any Difference?.......2007-09-26
This book should be interesting both to secularists and people of faith. The author's use of epigraphs provide launching points for thoughtful people of all backgrounds.
Honest, inspiring book on prayer.......2007-09-15
Philip Yancey has done it again. His book "The Jesus I Never Knew" is the best book I have read on Jesus. His book, "What's So Amazing About Grace?" is the best book I have read about grace. Now his book, "Prayer: Does it make any difference?" is the best book I have read on prayer. That is a strong statement for me to make, even as a person who loves the writings of Philip Yancey. I have read dozens of great books on prayer, including great books by people like Richard Foster, Ole Hallesby, Bill Hybels and Oswald Chambers.
What sets Yancey's book apart is his brutal honesty about the struggles people have with prayer, balanced with inspiring stories of how prayer has changed people's lives. Yancey is particularly self-effacing about his own struggles with prayer and his feelings of inadequacy in failing to pray. Yet by the end of the book, it is apparent that Yancey is much more of a prayer warrior than he admits at first.
The books' 22 chapters are divided into five parts. Part One, "Keeping Company with God," explores what prayer is. He points out that Jesus "virtually invented private prayer" (p. 63).
Part Two, "Unraveling the Mysteries," discusses frustrations and questions that people have about the effectiveness of prayer. He gives a disarmingly profound answer to those who ask why we should bother to pray when some prayers seem unanswered: "Why pray? Because Jesus did" (p. 78). Later in the book he gives another simple but true answer: "Why pray? God likes to be asked" (p. 143).
Part Three, "The Language of Prayer," discusses how to pray. He gives great practical advice on handling distractions to prayer, and reminds the reader that there is no right way to pray, because different styles of prayer fit different personalities. "Keep it simple, keep it honest, and keep it up" he advises (p. 191).
Part Four, "Prayer Dilemmas," returns to questions people have about prayer, especially unanswered prayer. I would disagree slightly with his defintion of "unanswered prayer," as he includes in that definition prayers that receive a "no" answer. Yancey's approach to prayer for physical healing is balanced and insightful, as he reveals scientific research showing healing that cannot be explained, while recognizing the importance of using medicine and how God usually works through natural processes.
Part Five, "The Practice of Prayer," provides motivation for faithful praying.
Yancey's writing includes frequent illustrations from a variety of sources, from popular culture to literature to world history. Being a famous author and editor for Christianity Today, Yancey has received many letters about prayer, and he shares this correspondence throughout the book. One unique quality about this book is that each chapter includes a couple of sidebars written by others, sharing personal experiences in prayer. For example, on p. 224-225 a prostitute whose prayer for deliverence resulted in her miraculous salvation. Although each sidebar story can be read alone, they relate to the chapters where they are inserted.
I disagree with Yancey in chapter 7, when he discusses Abraham's prayer that "changed" God's mind. Yancey does not notice that Genesis 18:33 says that it is God who ended the conversation with Abraham, not Abraham with God, so God did not change His mind.
Also, I believe that Yancey misinterprets Job 21:15 on p. 95. There he says that Job asks "What would we gain by praying to him?" However, the context of the chapter implies that Job quotes the wicked in this passage; Job does not say that he himself questions prayer.
It is remarkable that these were the only two places that I disagreed with Yancey, because he makes bold and strong statements throughout the book. I am sure many people will be offended or disagree with some things he said, just because he asserts so many strong opinions. But this is one of the values of the book: Yancey stimulates you to think deeply about prayer, and challenges your preconceived notions. Yet he does so while remaining fiercely loyal to the Bible's teachings on prayer.
In summary, this book is destined to be a classic book on prayer, useful for group study or personal review and study over and over again.
The Stuff No One Talks About.......2007-09-13
Philip Yancey has an uncanny way of addressing taboo subjects within the world of religion. His candid approach to the subject of prayer is refreshing and void of cliche's intended to manipulate or give a false sense of security. He reveals the true power of prayer, AND more importantly, the misconceptions about prayer. His book will take its reader on a round-trip journey of belief, doubt, and belief again with only one difference: the return of belief will be a more stable and deeply-rooted belief that will not be easily shaken.
What? Only four stars for a Philip Yancey book?.......2007-09-11
"Prayer -- Does it Make Any Differnce?"
For an avid and respectful Philip Yancey fan like myself, it is embarrassing to withold a full five stars. But my one reservation is a very serious one. Would it be fair to describe Yancey's position as "it is good to pray constantly, but don't expect a specific tangible answer to a personal prayer"?
In a book that addresses the question of whether prayer makes any difference it is a serious oversight not to investigate and report on ministries where it demonstatedly does make a differnce, such as the MacNutt's in Jacksonville. These mild-mannered, well educated, and considerate people of integrity do not claim healings that didn't happen, and have kept careful records of their years of experience. Has Yancey seriously studied their ministry with an open mind? Is he willing to sit down to talk with them? Or does he cling to the devastating 19th century nonscriptural doctrine that "miracles are not for today"?
A controlled experiment, published in December 2000, compared the effect of prayer on three groups with the same terminal illness: by trained, hands-on believers (James 5:14,15) by distant intercessors, and a control group is significant.
A test should be patterned after the way God actually heals today rather than one that tells God what he must do to convince us.
A book on Prayer certainly is should include exploring the effect of praying the kind of healing taught by Jesus and practiced by his disciples. See where it is working, not where we've failed.
Respectfully sharing. RHP
Book Description
In his inspiring new book, You Don’t Need a Title to Be a Leader, Mark Sanborn, the author of the national bestseller The Fred Factor, shows how each of us can be a leader in our daily lives and make a positive difference, whatever our title or position.
Through the stories of a number of unsung heroes, Sanborn reveals the keys each one of us can use to improve our organizations and enhance our careers.
Genuine leadership – leadership with a “little l”, as he puts it, is not conferred by a title, or limited to the executive suite. Rather, it is shown through our everyday actions and the way we influence the lives of those around us. Among the qualities that genuine leaders share:
• Acting with purpose rather than getting bogged down by mindless activity
• Caring about and listening to others
• Looking for ways to encourage the contributions and development of others rather than focusing solely on personal achievements
• Creating a legacy of accomplishment and contribution in everything they do
As readers across the country discovered in The Fred Factor, Mark Sanborn has an unparalleled ability to explain fundamental business and leadership truths through simple stories and anecdotes. You Don’t Need a Title to Be a Leader offers an inspiring message to anyone who wants to take control of their life and make a positive difference.
Customer Reviews:
You Don't Need a Title--GREAT LEADERSHIP!.......2007-10-22
If you have read the FRED FACTOR, this is a great follow up. (If you haven't, you need to!) This book helps identify the critical components of leadership in everyday life. It clarifies the obvious and reinforces the reality of how so many great leaders never even know they are leading! This book is a great book to give to those folks--teachers, co workers, friends--to acknowledge what you have seen and to encourage them to continue on! It is a quick read but very poignant.
One of the best books ever written on leadership.......2007-09-25
This books definitely defies the myth that true leaders are born leaders. The author uses examples of stories and excellent quotes to explain principles of leadership in a very efficient manner. I am quite sure that I can be a true leader if I follow the advice given by Mark Sanborn in his book. In addition, the book is concise and straight to the point which makes it quite appealing to the reader. Overall, this book is a must to the collection of a true leader.
Great Little Book.......2007-08-06
I recently started a new job and was looking for a book to build a two-day leadership offsite around. I found this little gem in an airport bookstore, read it on the plane, and knew it was the one. The contents perfectly mesh with my theory of leadership and the types of behaviors I expect. It's a fast read, and is practical and inspirational without being sappy.
I bought a copy (via Amazon, of course!) for my each of my management staff and used the 6 leadership principles as the framework for the first day of the offsite. It was a huge hit. I have since bought copies for every employee in the group, as they all expressed interest. We are having a group meeting in a few months (we are in several locations) and a review and discussion session centered around this book will be a must on the agenda!
Good treatment of leadership ideas.......2007-07-22
While there's nothing particularly new in this book, Sanborn does a good job of making leadership something personal. A great book to get for employees.
You Don't Need A Title To Be A Leader.......2007-06-11
A well written book. Easy to read and very positive and energizing. Will be a treasure for my family.
Book Description
Leadership expert John Maxwell believes attitude is one thing that can make all the difference in your life---and now shows you how you can make it your best asset.
Customer Reviews:
Maxwell Book.......2007-10-20
This book was advertised as used, but it sure looked new to me! I was very pleased with my purchase - the quality of the book and the price!
The Difference Maker:Making Your Attitude Your Greatest Asset.......2007-10-06
Excellent easy to follow. Well worth the purchase. I use it as a guide and reinforcement to be more positive.
Making The Difference.......2007-10-04
This book taught me that it is the 1% that seperates us from the less fortunate. Not only just saying change your attitude but an easy step by step process for having a correct perspective on doing so. I have read it 6 times and discover something new and wonderful each time.
-Timothy KendrickPTSD: Pathways Through the Secret Door
Challenge to Grow.......2007-09-14
Everyone should read this book. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing a sustained period of adversity, reading it is even more critical. It not only inspires but also equips readers with the techniques to get through tough times.
My manager gave this book to everyone in his district because market and external forces were creating a difficult working environment. This book helped many of us get through that time and still reach our goals.
Great Book!.......2007-09-11
Any time I read a book and see myself in it I enjoy it more. When I read this one I understood myself better, those around me better and most of all, why I just can't give up. As an entrepreneur I know that many try and fail and never try again. Others, with the right attitude, try and try and try and may fail but refuse to give up. This is a great book for all members of the family.
I recently attended a John Maxwell conference and heard him discuss some of the points in his new book, "Talent is Never Enough". That is the next book I will read! The folks at Amazon are wise to offer these two books together.
Maxwell is the consumate leadership guru.
Book Description
Women and men live in different worlds...made of different words.
Spending nearly four years on the New York Times bestseller list, including eight months at number one, You Just Don't Understand is a true cultural and intellectual phenomenon. This is the book that brought gender differences in ways of speaking to the forefront of public awareness. With a rare combination of scientific insight and delightful, humorous writing, Tannen shows why women and men can walk away from the same conversation with completely different impressions of what was said.
Studded with lively and entertaining examples of real conversations, this book gives you the tools to understand what went wrong -- and to find a common language in which to strengthen relationships at work and at home. A classic in the field of interpersonal relations, this book will change forever the way you approach conversations.
Customer Reviews:
really understand each other!.......2007-09-18
i received this book as a gift years ago. i read it and found it to be fascinating as well as enlightening. men and women really do communicate in different ways, and what you "heard" may not be what was actually "said."
now i've bought this book as a gift for someone else. read this book, and share it.
An explanation for "testosterone poisoning".......2007-07-16
In an earlier edition of this book, Tannen said she was "married to a man who is a partner and friend." In the margin, I wrote "What a novel idea!" And when she wrote "It is a continual source of pleasure to talk to him," I wrote "Wow!"
Yes, I was addicted to exclamation points seventeen years ago, but you get the idea. Any woman who has felt frustrated at having to babysit a male ego can benefit from this book, mainly because it gives women a way to understand that we are NOT required to "babysit" our husband / partner / colleague's ego. If we learn to understand the ways in which the men in our lives use the same words as we do, but mean different things by them, then we have a much better chance of connecting on a meaningful level. It is, after all, far better to understand, than it is to denigrate another person's communication style.
As a mystery writer, I have to write male/female conversations. I use Tannen's book often to help me try to "get it right," and I always put this book on my Recommended Reading list for the writing classes I teach.
I can't speak to whether men would get anything at all out of this book. Women, though -- don't you know what it's like to stand and listen to men talking and feel that wave of testosterone leaking out of every pore? Reading YOU JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND helped me not to feel threatened by male conversational styles. It helped me grow up. And I sincerely hope it helps you, too.
Very helpful in improving communication.......2007-05-30
It is not for nothing that therapists say communication is one of the main reasons couples come for counseling. My boyfriend and I found we couldn't talk to each other in mutually satisfying ways, or resolve difficulties through dialogue and, after about 2 1/2 years, were about to break up. As an alternative, I poked around on the net and in bookstores, found this book and suggested we read it together. We've had a few sessions with it so far. Of course one can pick holes in any theory. We don't agree with, or relate to, everything Tannen writes. But, this reading project is giving us a larger framework within and against which to discuss our differences and views. Unlike previous discussions, which generally spiraled into blame-game arguments, we're having some of the best conversations we've ever had. It's not about who's at fault. It's about clarifying for each other - and ourselves - the expectations and intentions behind our words. Our self-awareness and understanding of each other is progressing and so is our relationship, in a positive direction. I highly recommend.
Must Read!.......2007-05-27
Short review: If you hope to understand the other sex, you must know how to communicate. I read this book years ago when it was featured in several seduction books. I recently skimmed it again and found it just as relevent and just as excellent. If you have doubts, nearly 500 other authors have referenced this book. Enough said.
You Just Don't Understand.......2007-05-13
The product sent is in very good condition. The product was sent properly and I got the book on time.
Book Description
Author of the greatest inspirational bestseller of our time offers positive strategies for success in business and personal life. The remarkable self-help phenomenon,
The Power of Positive Thinking, plus the successful
The Positive Principle Today and
Enthusiasm Makes the Difference show why Norman Vincent Peale has helped millions of readers transform their lives and find joy and fulfillment.
Customer Reviews:
Very good book.......2007-06-06
I own the first book "Power of positive thinking". I can hardly wait to read the other two. At one point in my life I was covered with negative thinking and it drastically affected my actions and situations around me. However, using this book changed my life. I trust in God more now, have more faith in him, and I am much happier today. Also, more people started noticing and they liked the happier, more in control me. Praise God!!
Full of Stories, no real direction.......2007-03-27
The book teaches through others inspirational stories; there is no real teaching on how to have a positive attitude. I was expecting the book to give me steps on how to have a positive out look. It is also a religious book, which I didn't expect when I ordered it.
Excellent Boost!.......2007-01-05
This book is an excellent comprehensive boost for anyone who wants to welcome change and new ways of seeing their world and the issues they may have in relationships, wealth, success and life in general. I haven't finished reading it yet - but have found that even just one page a night before bed does wonders in slowly opening us up to change and positive ways of thinking. It's difficult to do in a world that bombards us at lightening speed with so many mixed positive and negative, draining messages. This is a great way to keep your feet on the ground, mind focused on the important things and even if you aren't religious to explore yourself and spirituality. Like a pocket psychotherapist ;-)
PEALE SOME OFF FOR ME!.......2006-11-18
STILL APPROPRIATE AFTER ALL THESE YEARS. I READ IT 30 YEARS AGO, NOW IT IS HELPING MY SON.
Buy it. NOW........2006-11-04
Easily the best book I've ever bought. If I could rate this book six stars, I would.
Six months ago, I decided to change my life and head for the military. I wanted to be the best and decided to try out for the Rangers, an especially ambitious goal considering my activity level was on par with most vegetables. My friends laughed at me, I bought this book.
Using this book as my motivational guide and Stew Smith's 12 Weeks to BUD/S as my exercise plan, my pushup/run/situp/swim scores absolutely shot through the roof. I have never felt motivation like I felt after reading through Norman Peale's book and if it wasn't for this purchase, I honestly believe I would have abandoned this goal and would still be miserable, sitting on my couch, and playing video games, not out getting in shape for the Rangers.
That was over six months ago now, and am heading off to basic pretty soon with my body ready and my mind motivated.
Thank you Mr. Peale even though you are probably dead, I am a very happy customer and have even bought a couple copies for my friends. The concepts in this book are the best things that have ever happened to me and have absolutely revolutionized my life.
They can revolutionize yours too. All you have to do is buy it and use it.
Book Description
As U.S. organizations continue to explore overseas business opportunities, they will be challenged to adapt to the new market's local characteristics, legislation, fiscal regime, sociopolitical environment and cultural system. Riding the Waves of Culture shows international managers how to build the skills, sensitivity, and cultural awareness needed to establish and sustain management effectiveness across cultural borders. This revised edition is updated with new research and statistics.
More than an encyclopedia of cultures and customs, this essential guide:
- Describes successful and failed cross-cultural business transactions of multinational organizations such as AT&T, Heineken, Motorola and Volvo
- Offers techniques managers can use to anticipate and mediate some of the difficult dilemmas of international management
- Uses country-by-country graphs, examples, and other comparisons to illustrate how different cultures regard and respond to various management approaches
- Includes a CD-ROM of graphs, charts, and exercises to help readers evaluate their effectiveness as a global manager
Customer Reviews:
Outstanding research results in clear & useful guide.......2007-09-19
I was surprised to have my horizons expanded greatly though I had initially expressed skepticism at another book on diversity. On the contrary, this one contains real, practical, appropriate cultural nuances and advice on particulars for many national and cultural traditions. I heartily suggest it as a cornerstone of a modern cultural analysis of the factors that can contribute to enhancing diversity. Even though a bit dated, their research still is valuable. I cannot wait for the next edition!
Essential reading for executives - and politicians.......2006-02-26
This book is deservedly already an international management classic, and should be required reading for anybody who needs to interact with other nationalities and cultures. Hofstede got there first with his classifications of cultural dimensions, but Hampden-Turner & Trompenaars' are arguably more compelling, and - more importantly - the book is both highly readable and replete with case studies. It gives American and Northern European business people insights into why their assumptions about what motivates people from other parts of the world are wrong, and why so many US-centered initiatives founder on the rocks of unrecognized cultural differences. Send a copy to the White House!
For Business Poeple and Managers.......2005-06-30
This is a shorter, and more condensed version of the authors' earlier book 'Building Cross Cultural Competence'. In this book, the authors' target managers and business people who are looking to understand cultural differences and how to deal with them in a variety of circumstances and situations. Each chapter begins with am introduction to one of the dimensions, a discussion of how the differences manifest themselves and concludes with 'tips' on how to deal, and how to do business, with the different culture explored in that chapter.
The authors use the same six dimensions of culture introduced in their earlier work (universalism vs. particularism; individualism vs communitarism; specificity vs. diffusion; achieved status vs. ascribed status; inner direction vs. outer direction; and sequential time vs. synchronous time), but they present these dimensions in a much more accessible and simple manner with more emphasis on what each dimension actually means for business people and how it affects business-related situations.
This book has become the reference for business people and managers in the area of culture. Simple and very well written without losing credibility; this is a book that will enlighten and guide any manager in dealing with people from other cultures. While in some ways it is a 'western-centric' book (targeted to Western - especially US - managers), it remains very useful for managers from other cultures since the authors have attempted to keep the examples and discussion culturally neutral.
A Great Introduction to Intercultural Understanding.......2004-05-03
At last from Europe, a clear, concise, readable explanation of the critical dimensions of international management. It places culture in a perspective that allows for applications internationally and within the diversity of single nations.
David C. Wigglesworth, Ph.D. is an international/intercultural human resource, management, and organization consultant and president of D.C.W Research Associates International in Kingwood, Texas, USA. He can be reached at dcwigg@earthlink.net
Riding the Waves of Culture.......2003-10-02
An excellent overview of culture and cultural differences. For a more specific look at Americans, read Working with Americans (Stewart-Allen/Denslow)
Book Description
The Meaning of Difference is a text-reader about the social construction of difference as it operates in American formulations of race, sex and gender, social class, and sexual orientation. The book is based the conviction that similar processes are at work in the construction of differences of color, sex and gender, class, and sexuality and that these processes likely also apply to other master statuses such as disability. Four framework essays provide the conceptual structure for the book. Following each framework essay is a set of readings that illustrate the concepts and processes described in the essays. The readings have been selected for readability, conceptual depth, and applicability to a variety of statuses.
Customer Reviews:
Diversity Explained.......2007-09-26
A good book. Gives all sides to Diversity issues and is coupled with many first hand articles that are very interesting. Definetly worth a read if you're interested in issues of diversity.
Great articles.......2007-09-23
Very interesting book, great perspective from lots of different authors on diverse social issues such a racial inequality, gender, and sexual orientation. The framework essays are also particularly interesting - I highly recommend it for anyone interested in sociological issues!
facinating insights.......2007-07-16
This book is great for anyone who is interested in questions like why do we as Americans' see white people and black people differently. It answers questions like this for gender, race, ethnicity and disability. The first chapter is terribly dry but it sets the stage for the rest of the book which is very insightful.
(There's a bit of good history in here as well).
Great book on diversity in America.......2006-11-10
This book gives a very broad and encompassing look at many of the topics that contribute to and affect diversity and differences in America today.
College Textbook.......2005-03-04
While the text offers important thought provoking articles and essays on Race Gender and Social Issues, it is not Student friendly text. A text with such a wide array of information should offer a section of review at the end of each reading. By having a review "for students", it ensures an understanding of concepts and objectives. Furthermore, it offers students a place to review when studying for exams. I give the text a 5 star rating for the informative articles and essays but 1 star for none existing review material.
Book Description
"This book should be in the library of everyone who serves--or aspires to serve--on the governing board of any organization, large or small, nonprofit or corporate. Better than any other available resource, it tells what the roles of board members are and what they must and shouldn't do. An indispensable guidebook to leadership excellence."
--George Weber, secretary general, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Geneva
"John Carver's Boards That Make a Difference was required reading for board members of the Calgary Philharmonic Society. It provided a clear and concise road map with which we carried out significant governance restructuring of the society."
James M. Stanford, president & CEO,, Petro-Canada, and past chairman of the Calgary Philharmonic Society, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
John Carver's groundbreaking Policy Governance model has influenced the way public and nonprofit boards operate around the world. Now, as widespread experience with the model continues to grow, Carver enriches his definitive exposition with updated policy samples, a new chapter on the process of policy development, and additional resources for various types of boards. He debunks the entrenched beliefs about board roles and functions that hamper dedicated board members. With creative insight and commonsense practicality, Carver presents a bold new approach to board job design, board-staff relationships, the chief executive role, performance monitoring, and virtually every aspect of the board-management relationship. In their stead, he offers a board model designed to produce policies that make a difference, missions that are clearly articulated, standards that are ethical and prudent, meetings, officers, and committees that work; and leadership that supports the fulfillment of long-term goals.
Customer Reviews:
Very Helpful.......2003-04-01
The world is full of experts at what is wrong with the things that we do. Dr. Carver has a rock-solid, well thought out suggestion concerning how to do it right. One reviewer complained that Dr. Carver's suggestions are not realistic. Right is not often realistic, but right is always right. It's far better to start with an ideal and compromise from that point than to capitulate from the outset. Boards that Make a Difference is well worth reading.
Idealistic.......1999-06-27
The carver style of governance is a tad idealistic and perhaps overly optimistic. I have read everything Dr Carver has written concerning this field and enjoy this material at an academic level. But when it comes to operationalizing this model in boardrooms I've seen it fail time and time again. Not to say that the model is flawed because in fact the model is normative and conceptually complete. However it doesn't capture that element of reality from which, in my experience, the model requires - practicality and real-world application. Dr Carver's notion that Boards can do without Finance and Audit Committees is very naive. Most consultants from the chartered accountant genre are saying the complete opposite. In fact most government policy initiatives are moving toward more control of financial affairs of organizations for boards from charts of accounts to fiscal policy. So I don't think the elimination of Finance and Audit Committees is realistic nor is it a terribly bright suggestion. I guess my only crticism is that the carver model is far to idealistic and philosophical for a practical application in the form Dr Carver suggests. Sorry but a hybrid model of traditional Board governance and the carver model may work given the commitment required from directors to follow-though on everything suggested in that system of governance,
A must-have for not-for-profits!.......1999-03-29
This book was the core piece of a radical change in our board room. It led us down the path we knew we wanted to go but didn't know how to get there. His model for board room organization could revolutionize boards of companies in transition, like those of the rural electric program in America. It's a road map for where you already know in your heart that you want to go.
Essential for public boards seeking to lead strategically.......1999-01-27
After 5 years on a local Board of Education I finally found a book that describes everything I know is wrong with board management practices in schools and nonprofit organizations. But that is the easy part. Carver offers sound alternatives to current practices that put the responsibility and the capability for strategic leadership right where it belongs--on the board.
I winced as I read Carver's description of reactive boards trapped in the "approval syndrome" in which boards rely on staff to bring issues and recommendations to them for approval. This pervasive practice not only takes board members out of the driver's seat, but it confuses the lines of accountability between the board and the CEO for the organization.
Carver offers a framework for changing all that by forcing the board to rethink all of its policy with an eye toward board-determined policies that operate at the highest level possible. In Carver's approach only four types of policies need to be set by the board: 1) "Ends" policies (board expectations), 2) Executive Limitations (the "don'ts" for the organization), 3) Board process policies and 4) Board-CEO relationship policies. *Everything* you need to be involved in can be fit into one of these four categories.
Want to learn how to stop working at the staff level and how to help your organization find a true sense of direction? Carver's book offers practical and straightforward ways of getting there.
Accessible, Codified Common Sense.......1999-01-24
Mr. Carver presents a very readable way of looking at how governing boards should work. His theories are logical and his arguments pursuasive. He offers board members an intellectual framework to consider how their organizations are running. The book is prescriptive, but not preachy. I was very surprised to find it sensible after hearing so much hype from "converts" to his method.
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- Journey to the Impossible: Designing an Extraordinary Life
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