Book Description
Bestselling author Harvey Mackay reveals his techniques for the most essential tool in business--networking, the indispensable art of building contacts.
Now in paperback,
Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty is Harvey Mackay's last word on how to get what you want from the world through networking. For everyone from the sales rep facing a career-making deal to the entrepreneur in search of capital,
Dig Your Well explains how meeting these needs should be no more than a few calls away. This shrewdly practical book distills Mackay's wisdom gleaned from years of "swimming with sharks," including:
What kinds of networks exist
How to start a network, and how to wring the most from it
The smart way to downsize your list--who to keep, who to dump
How to keep track of favors done and favors owed--Is it my lunch or yours?
What you can do if you are not good at small talk
Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty is a must for anyone who wants to get ahead by reaching out.
Customer Reviews:
Great book - Straight-forward Advice.......2007-08-13
Dig Your Well... is full of great advice and real-world situations which make Harvey Mackay one of my favorite authors. He is well-networked and likeable, showing that building a network of trusted friends, advisors and business associates is valuable for success at any career level.
Meghan Wier
Confessions of an Introvert: The Shy Girl's Guide to Career, Networking and Getting the Most Out of Life
A good network is critical to success - read this book to build a solid one........2007-07-09
Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty is one of the best networking books I have read ("Never Eat Alone" is another great one) and one of the most important books for anyone who wishes to get ahead. Having a solid network of people will do more for your career advancement than almost anything you can do. Harvey Mackay list the top-ten most important things a network can do. Here are a five of those:
1) A network replaces the weakness of the individual with the strength of the group
2) A network can enrich your life anywhere in the world
3) A network can help you help others
4) Job security? Don't rely on the corporation. Rely on your network
5) A network expands your financial reach infinitely
Mackay goes in great detail on how to build solid networks by adding value to others and keeping in touch. He believes that the most valuable tool in your office is your Rolodex. Harvey Mackay certainly knows what he is talking about, not only does he write books and give speeches, he has built an incredible company, in the envelope business, with over 100 million in annual revenue. He did this by learning EVERYTHING he could possibly know about his clients, not just their order history and size of company, but also the owners favorite sport, team, children's names, ages, spouse's name, where they grew up, what they are passionate about, what they are proud of, etc, etc. In this book he teaches us how to ask for that information, how to maintain the data fresh and how to use it to grow our networks.
My favorite quote from the book is: "No salesperson who knew the names of his customer's kids ever went broke." This is as true as: No person who reads this book and applies its principles will ever go broke. Enjoy!
Networking Leads To Opportunity.......2007-05-15
Harvey Mackay is a master of networking. All of his books stress the importance of professionals focusing on how to make, keep and grow their business relationships.....in this book it the the whole enchillada.
Although I read the book years ago, it is still a wonderful reference for me, now that I speak on the topic. I have learned much from Mr. Mackay, and this book is a must read for anyone who wants to make networking a higher priority.
You will love this book as a networking beginner.......2007-04-30
I have to say, although I have gotten my Ph.D. degree in computer science and have worked around 3 years, I am a beginner in term of networkig (not the computer network). As a beginner, I really love this book because it answers the following questions using real and good stories:
1. What is the network.
2. Who should be in the network.
3. How to meet a new people and make him/her part of your network.
4. How to let others to remember you.
5. Where to start your networking.
6. How to keep your network.
I really enjoy it.
Overall pretty good, just a little too much fluff.......2007-04-13
Overall pretty good, just a little too much fluff. The book in made up of about a 100 short stories about good and bad networking tips. About 70% is pretty good, while the other 30% is fluff. Still a good read.
Book Description
The international bestseller--more than 500,000 copies sold!
With their 1994 international bestseller, Dealing with People You Can't Stand, Drs. Rick Brinkman and Rick Kirschner armed a civility-starved world with no-nonsense strategies for dealing with difficult people with tact and skill. Since then, cell phones, the Internet, voice mail, and other technological wonders designed to bring people closer together have only made it that much harder to avoid "people you can't stand;" even worse, they've also created exciting new ways for annoying people to realize their talent for being pains in the butt.
Updated and revised for the digital age, this new edition of Brinkman and Kirschner's bestselling guide shows readers how to successfully combat the whiners, grenades, tanks, snipers, close-talkers, pedants, and other rude, crude, and inconsiderate people who can ruin your day at work, in stores, on the street, in restaurants, at the movies, in waiting rooms, by fax, phone, and E-mail, and in cyberspace.
Customer Reviews:
Very short & general.......2007-10-02
This is like a small handbook/manual to refer to after you've read a more in depth book on the subject. I wouldn't even call it a book, it's not very long at all.
It's not a bad read but if you have never read anything about "difficult people" before you'll find a LOT lacking. I think maybe it'll be good to refer to if you need reminders of the things you've learned.
A more comprehensive book on the subject which i have read and like a lot is called Coping with difficult people by Robert M. Bramson.
Should be called Dealing with Difficult Behaviours.......2007-09-12
I really enjoyed this book. The crux of it is that you are dealing with bad or difficult behaviour, not necessarily bad people. If you understand what drives the behaviour you can be more successful in dealing with it. It is also a good guide on what NOT to do. AND the book is not a weighty tome that drones on and on to prove a simple point ... it is nice and to the point. I was a IT consultant for 10 years working with many different global coporate companiess, and now run my own business employing 15 people. I can recognise each and every behaviour type. I have tries lots of these strategies for dealing with these behaviours (successful and unsuccessful) and a lot of this advice rings so very true.
the difficlties of self-knowledge.......2007-05-15
I found this book is quite helpful in identifying differing communication styles and in giving suggestions for how to deal with them. One of the major, salutary, insights is that each of us probably has a communication styles that irritate somebody, somewhere. Ouch! But recognizing that aspect of "the problem with OTHER people" gives us a better chance to improve matters. I liked the humor, too.
Don't be put off by the extreme sounding title.......2007-04-13
This is one of the best books about effective communication I have come across.
As a manager of a large teaching staff, and working for local government, I have found this book to be one of the best resources I own.
The book clearly breaks down difficult personality characteristics, identifies the motivation behind the behaviours, and gives clear strategies to deal with the situation. From the bulldozing boss, to the meek mouse, this book helps to bring out the best from the people you work with.
It's also effective with difficult friends and family. It is also very readable.
Dealing With People You Can't Stand........2007-03-15
Excellent Book. It gives practical tips in how to deal with difficult people. I am requiring my staff to read the book.
Book Description
A proven system for improving your own work and for working better in a team
Used by such organizations as the Walt Disney Company, Silicon Graphics, the Federal Reserve Bank, and the CIA, the Enneagram is a proven psychological system based on nine number types that helps people achieve self-awareness and develop strategic approaches to interpersonal interactions. In Bringing Out the Best in Yourself at Work, Enneagram teacher and business consultant Ginger Lapid-Bodga shows professionals how to apply this popular tool to their work as a way to improve their productivity and help them build positive relationships among coworkers. This practical guide explains how to use the Enneagram to:
- Communicate more effectively
- Provide constructive feedback
- Prevent and resolve conflict
- Bring out their strongest leadership skills
- Discover methods for professional development
- Work better in teams
Customer Reviews:
Finally..........2006-08-26
The genuine nugget in this book is its use of the Enneagram to move forward the original Center for Creative Leaderhip research about what derails successful professionals. Lapid-Bogna's gift is to communicate the most profound and deeply thoughtful insights with deceptively casual language. I agree it needs to be read twice: Once to understand the techniques it describes, and a second time to appreciate how she builds on her hard-earned understanding of what works and doesn't work in OD and career development. Then, consider reading it a third time to appreciate the Enneagram for the doors it opens to truly deep personal growth. Not just another book written as a practice-building marketing piece for the author. It contains enough material for at least two books.
The most practical enneagram book out there for business applications.......2005-10-03
I love this book. I am an executive coach and I find this very useful for helping my Enneagram-aware clients apply the model directly and quickly to work situations -- to help debug relationships, communications, conflilct, etc.
I especially like Lapid-Bogda's distinctions and examples around "Pinch" and "Crunch" for each of the types.
I don't know of any other books except Michael Goldberg's "The Nine Ways of Working" that fill this business-application niche quite so well.
Highly recommended for those who need a practical, hands-on way of using the Ennegram in day to day work interactions.
Betsy Siwula Brandt, Breakthrough Consulting, Santa Fe, NM .......2005-09-03
Finally a groundbreaking book on the 9 ways of working that can be handed to your HR director! Enneagram Personality System books started being published in the 1980's; not until now has there been one that systematically applies this system to organizations. As an organization development consultant, I have always found the enneagram to be essential to my executive coaching and development. Now, in a practical and most excellent way, Lapid-Bogda applies the system to all key areas of organization life-- including employee feedback, conflict in teams, leadership and team development, etc. You can take the applications and use them immediately on the change initiatives you already have underway in your orgaization-- such as your 360 degree feedback sessions.
Not only does Lapid-Bogda make it easy for you to apply this system, but once familiar with her book and work, the reader can order tailor made tools that go with each organization topic that will further assist your ease of application.
If you are "stuck" in your own personal career development or trying to lead others in theirs-- and looking for a breakthrough-- then buy this book!
A Life Changing Book.......2005-08-20
This book has helped me in ways that I never imagined. The information in this book has been extremely useful in my quest to better understand myself and others. "Bringing Out the Best in Yourself at Work" is very much a must read for anyone interested in improving their relationships at work and in life in general.
Personality Traits in the Business Environment.......2004-09-01
This is a book on using the Enneagram system specifically oriented to todays business environment. The Enneagram is not unlike other personality oriented systems. First an individual is asked to examine nine different personality types and to identify himself with one. Then the Enneagram, a diagram of the interaction of the various types can be used to predict behavior.
The book, however, reverses the normal trend in personality testing books where the book is organized around the personality type. Instead the book describes several common business situations and then describes how the various personality types react to the situation.
Book Description
BUILDING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BOSS The Boss and The Assistant. It's a basic business relationship, and the structure is easy: The Boss gives orders, and The Assistant obeys. But there's an alternative that's better for both assistant and boss, and it's called "partnership." In this eye-opening book, assistants learn how they can break out of old, narrow roles and enjoy working with a boss instead of for a boss. This change liberates creativity and self-confidence, and reveals hidden skills and interests. It also makes an assistant more valuable (and promotable) to the boss and the company. Readers learn specific techniques for how to: ** initiate the transition to a partnering relationship ** understand their boss' work style and adapt to it -- without losing their sense of self ** become a proactive worker who takes responsibility for mistakes and credit for successes JERRY WISINSKI (San Antonio,TX) is a consultant with expertise in interpersonal skills, assertiveness training, and team building. He served as Executive Director of International Trainers, Educators, and Consultants at Trinity University, and is the author of Resolving Conflicts on the Job (Amacom).
Customer Reviews:
Good for nothing!.......2004-08-08
I bought this book thinking it would provide pointers on how to handel specific, everyday, and even "ordinary" situations assistants encounter with their bosses, and others in the workplace. Pointers that when carried out correctly would prove that you indeed are a "take charge assistant".
Instead, this book focuses on getting on your bosses good side, which is great, if all you want to be known for is being the dependable "worker". I was expecting somethig way more contrete, This book was too wishy-wasy for me.
I give it one star because eventhiugh I don't think it specifically states it there is an underlying message of the importance of communication.
An essential starting point.......2003-10-09
Being a corporate coach who specializes in the relationship between executives and assistants, I find this book very useful. While it is not the end-all, be-all solution, it is a perfect start to building a partnership. The book is easy to read with realistic tips; I give it to my clients to augment our coaching sessions. I especially like the stages of partnership model explained in the book. It builds on the basic stages of management and is useful for both the executive and assistant. Well done! righthandresources.com
Eh?.......2003-08-15
There are better books out there about being an assistant to a boss. This book does not go into depth. It's too basic, and not meaty enough.
Essential to Partnering with Your Manager.......2002-07-27
This book is outstanding. I highly recommend it if you want to take your working relationship with your manager up to the next level. If you think you're working relationship is great now, this book can make it even better. I liked the way the author lists the steps in preparing this concept to your manager. It was easy to follow and really makes you put a good deal of careful thought in the preparation process. I also liked the idea of action items not just for the assistant, but for the manager too. Remember a good working relationship involves both assistants and managers. Just working through this process together improves the relationship. Luckily, my boss endored it!
Good for Beginners.......2002-05-01
This book is helpful for people new to their jobs. If you don't have anyone who can give you good advice, try this book and you will gain understanding and wisdom about how you should act in your workfield.
Book Description
In this ground-breaking new book, acclaimed diversity expert Mark Williams offers ten "eye-opening" lenses to help you, your organization, and everyone in it, understand how cultural diversity affects the way we live and work. There's the Assimilationist who believes that everyone should act like a true blue American, and the Culturalcentrist who believes that a person's race or ethnicity is central to their personal and public identity; the Meritrocratist who is sure that if you have the abilities and work hard enough you can make your dreams come true regardless of race or culture, and the Victim/Caregiver who believes that because of bias they will never succeed. Learn more about these lenses, as well as six other lenses that Mark Williams has developed to respond to cultural diversity.
Customer Reviews:
The 10 Lenses: Your Guide to Living & Working in a Multicultural World.......2007-01-04
I first read the 10 Lenses several years ago after meeting author Mark Williams at a Summit on Leading Diversity Conference in Atlanta. I have been using The 10 Lenses in our diversity education programs ever sense. This book has proven to a great conversation starter, without the usual "blame and shame" sometimes associated with diversity training. In fact, we have even established a very successful four-week course around "The 10 Lenses" in our Hampton Diversity Leadership Academy. Mark has advanced the entire discussion of "diversity" with this book. I highly recommend it to any diversity/inclusion professional.
John L. Johnson
Certified Diversity Professional
Executive Director
Hampton Citizens' Unity Commission
22 Lincoln Street, 5th Floor
Hampton, VA 23669
Promising, but in the end Disappointing.......2003-12-04
This is a useful Guide to Living as & Working with Immigrants in a Multicultural USA, not a Multicultural World. It really has little or no street-credibility outside the USA.
I've worked for a US Fortune500 Company for 20 years, and in over 30 Countries.
The book confesses upfront to its limitations : although the information is US-centric, Williams, Clifton & Thomas believe their concepts are universal - but they haven't the experience to back that up. They admit they don't know whether current observations will hold up in different cultures, or whether different cultures have different profiles with respect to the lenses. The initial research has focussed on race, culture, nationality & ethnicity. In practice 90% of its focus is on race & ethnicity. Sexual orientation is ignored, and the word 'gay' doesn't appear until over 80% of the way through the book - and its only for one sentence.
Consider some of the Lenses :
For the Assimilationist they talk about "adapting US business norms appropriately, given global norms and standards" - well I've never met a "Global norm" - and as for being able to adapt US norms, there's the problem - you have to reject US norms in order to get on with the outside world. The Assimilationist must think about "Western cultural arrogance" - woah - what about "US Cultural arrogance" - ask a Canadian or a Mexican or the French how they feel about US hegemony.
The Culturalcentrist talks about the "Irish, Polish & Italian Communities", and in the same breath about the "Asian Community" - I'm sure the "Asians" would argue they had less in common between India, Vietnam, Korea etc than those Europeans, who at least had Catholicism in common.
For the Seclusionist : "Globalisation ... diminishes the authority of the USA" - hmm, I thought everyone was rioting recently complaining that Globalisation meant US hegemony? The Seclusionist "rewards the efforts of the majority group" - oh so Williams has never thought of a Society where the dominant group is itself a Minority, such as in Apartheid-era South Africa, and a number of other inequitable Societies today?
The Transcendant options were just not for me - according to Williams you are either 'Religious' or you are 'Spiritual' - nothing else applies. I am neither, and quite happy thank you. I'm always made to feel uncomfortable with this aspect of US Society, and it would be good if Williams had a section on how to work with 'agnostics'.
The Elitist offered no alternatives - what about Communism or Socialism - the inequalities of US Society would not be tolerated in Scandinavia. As I say to my friends in Minneapolis, it's a pity the wrong shipload of explorers colonised North America.
For all the talk about race, there's no mention of working with people in mixed-race relationships or of mixed-race ethnicity - over 10% of marriages in the UK are mixed-race, even though the ethnic minorities constitute less than 8% of the population. I find mixed-race marriages in the USA to be a tragic rarity - and why aren't they promoted in TV programs?
There were no examples of other diversities which can be just as sensitive in Society, such as no case studies featuring Native Americans, Hindus, Moslems, Lesbians, Vegetarians or people with Physical/Mental disabilities.
The much-promoted mystical Chapter on the Eleventh Lens was a real disappointment - just some new world 'Nirvana' where everyone loved each other and did right by each other (I presume so long as you could still hire & fire at will).
When I looked through the Bibliography, I understood; of the 86 references, only 2 of them weren't published in the USA, and they were published in London (both looking back at the USA). You can't write a book about a Multicultural world if you don't read/travel widely.
Williams continually refers back to Title VII of the (US) Civil Rights Act (pity he didn't include it as an Appendix). It would have been nice to talk about the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights - since so much of US Society doesn't comply with it. I recall when one of our Senior US Executives starting to spout about Affirmative Action etc at a staff meeting in Germany - he had to be told to leave or they'd call the Police - because his US-speak was illegal under anti-Nazi legislation.
I scored myself on the Lenses : I am Colorblind, an Integrationalist, Meritocratist and a Multiculturalist. Williams was (in 2001) inviting Contributors to help them develop the book for a wider audience - I'm going to volunteer to help them, because boy do they need it.
The Eleventh Lens.......2003-03-01
Mark Williams' research outlining 10 human mindset "lenses" addresses the problems of conflicting worldviews both in and out of the workplace. His work is extremely well organized for easy reference; you'll recognize in yourself and/or others the Assimilationist, Colorblind, Culturalcentrist, Elitist, Integrationist, Meritocratist, Multiculturalist, Seclusionist, New Age/Transcendent and/or Victim/Caretaker. With hope, you'll also recognize the real point of the book and the research: that you've been reaching for your inclusive ELEVENTH LENS where paradoxical thinking acknowledges and discerns the strengths and weaknesses each limited lens brings to the whole personally, professionally and socially -- and globally. See also the integrative developmental framework in A Brief History of Everything by Ken Wilber and Spiral Dynamics by Don Beck and Christopher Cowan.
"The Ten Lenses" -- A Breath of Fresh Air!.......2001-11-09
"The Ten Lenses" is a badly needed breath of fresh air -- a sophisticated, intellectually grounded, and constructive framework for thinking about diversity issues. It respects and values all people and all perspectives on diversity. It opens a path to understanding each different perspective, even those dramatically different from one's own. It helps take the emotional charge out of verbal interactions between people whose approaches and reactions to diversity issues are widely divergent. It provides a new framework and a new language through which we can talk about diversity and move towards greater understanding. "The Ten Lenses" was an enormous help to me and I highly recommend it.
"The Ten Lenses" Opens Your Eyes!.......2001-11-08
I live and work in Washington, D.C., one of the most diverse cities in America. My department at work was having a lot of problems due to such a diverse workforce. We could not communicate well and our projects were never completed on time and never completed correctly. My boss brought this book in one day after he stayed up all night reading it. He could not put "The 10 Lenses" down. In a very short time, my department has turned itself around using the premises in this book. If you want to have a successful business, buy "The 10 Lenses."
Book Description
Some people really can make you sick!Is there anyone in your life-a relative, boss, friend, even a lover or spouse-who drives you crazy? Are there people who make you feel inadequate, unworthy, or just plain miserable? If there's someone who is not supportive and does not wish you well, then you've got a "toxic" person in your life.Do you recognize any of these toxic terrors?The opportunistic userThe control freakThe meddlerThe arrogant know-it-allThe me, myself, and I narcissistThe instigatorThe emotional refrigeratorThe liarDr. Glass not only helps you identify the "toxic" people in your life, she also provides ten techniques for successfully dealing with them, including:Tension-blowoutUnpluggingDirect confrontationHumor
Customer Reviews:
Fast Self-Help!.......2007-07-12
Excellent, easy to read suggestions for dealing with difficult people. Arms you with ready to use solutions for dealing with toxic personalities. Reminds me of a "Mental First Aid" book. Everyone should read this one!
Toxic People: 10 Ways of Dealing With People Who Make Your Life Miserable.......2006-11-04
No different than any self help book written from the 80's. Human flaws and quirks are just a part of life, and shouldn't be viewed as a constant drama. I interpreted the book as one that perpetuates whining and viewing one's self as a victim. Let me save readers their money: There are no victims, only volunteers. People will treat you the way you let them treat you. If you don't like something, say so and remove yourself from the situation, and if it makes someone mad, they'll just have to get glad at their own pace. Take care of yourself, and everything around you will fall into place.
I gave it a 2 because there were no misspelled words.
Not worth the money.......2006-07-01
The author gives examples that are to specific and, thus, not applicable to the general population. Also, the examples are formulated as little stories.....boring.....better to have step by step procedures. I was looking for something to help me in a work related situation and the book was totaly unhelpful.
UN-ENLIGHTNING READ.......2005-12-30
THIS BOOK READ LIKE A CHILD HAD WRITTEN IT. IT WAS OVERLY SIMPLISTIC AND SOUNDED SO CHILDISH IN ITS SOLUTIONS, I'M WONDERING IF THE AUTHOR IS A PRETEEN.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE BOOK "IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING" OFFERED REVELATIONS IN IDENTIFYING AGRESSIVE PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MANIPULATE YOU IN A GREAT VARIETY OF WAYS.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO IDENTIFY AND EFFECTIVELY DEAL WITH A MANIPULATOR IN YOUR LIFE, READ "IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING".
A comical book, actually!.......2005-01-17
As I was reading this book I came across some comical information. I thought I was just not understanding so I discussed it with my husband. He also agreed that some things written in this book were somewhat odd.
It did not help me at all. The toxic people discribed were elementary. I put the book down and have never picked it up again.
Book Description
A FULLY REVISED AND UPDATED EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER.
What does it take to be a firefighter? Fighter pilot? Top of the heap in the sales department? A brilliant customer service advisor? Esteemed and respected corporate leader?
What does it take to get ahead? To separate yourself from the competition" Lead a less stressful existence? To be fulfilled in personal life and professional pursuits?
What is the most important dynamic of your makeup? Is it your A0 intelligence quotient? Or B0 emotional quotient?
If you picked "A", you are partly correct. Your intelligence quotient can be a predictor of things such as academic achievement. But it is fixed and unchangeable. The real key to personal and professional growth, and happiness, is your emotional quotient, which you can nurture and develop.
The EQ Edge, by Steven J. Stein and Howard E. Book, shows you how the dynamic of emotional intelligence works. By understanding EQ, you can build more meaningful relationships, boost your confidence and optimism, and respond to challenges with enthusiasm--all of which are essential ingredients of success.
The book features case studies and fascinating--and surprising--insights into EQ and the workplace. As an HR or line manager, this book will help you determine which personnel are the right fit for job opportunities and who among your staff will be the most promising leaders and drivers of your business. And because CEOs to front-line workers also have other roles--parent, spouse, caregiver to aging parents, neighbor, friend--The EQ Edge also describes how everyone can be more successful in these relationships.
"Finally, a practical and useable guide to what emotional intelligence is all about. This book peels the onions on what EQ really is and teaches the reader to assess their own EQ and how to increase it. This is the holy grail for career success."
--Michael Feiner, Professor, Columbia Graduate School of Business and author of The Feiner Points of leadership
Customer Reviews:
Practical, Easy to Read and Apply to Real Life.......2007-05-29
Useful summary of what EQ is all about. Describes how to understand the connection to success in relationships and business. Practical exercises help learn ways to apply the theories to improve emotional intelligence quotient (EQ).
Great for People wanting an Introduction on EQ-i.......2003-12-18
This books is very easy to read, it goes through all the stages and criteria of being 'Emotionally Intelligent', while showing examples/stories on different situations and how one could handle it with greater EQ-i ability.
Although I have some backgrounds on this subject, I still find this book encouraging, and it's good to refer back to once in a while.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to better their EQ-i or just curious.
Pleasantly Surprised By Contents.......2001-01-26
I was not sure what to expect when I started to read this book. The second author is a psychiatrist and an organizational consultant. The first author, Steven Stein is a psychologist, but also well known for heading up a very successful test publishing company. Was the book going to be an advertisement for his tests? Would his success as a businessperson enhance the credibility of the message?
The book was very easy to get into. The writing is engaging. It starts with a brief history and definition of emotional intelligence (something Goleman avoids in his first book on the subject). It focuses on Reuven BarOn's definition but also includes Peter Salovey and John Mayer's definition - the originators of the concept.
The book, to my pleasant surprise, does not focus on the test (Emotional Quotient Inventory -EQ-i), but on how to gauge yourself (using exercises provided in the book) and work on improving yourself in the 15 specific areas of emotional intelligence. For the most part the exercises are taken from well-validated methods of cognitive-behavior therapy. As a psychologist I have no problem recommending this book to clients. In fact, there is more data behind this approach than what is proposed in many of the "best-selling" books out there. (For the academically oriented professional, please read the EQ-i test manual.)
Most interesting to me were some of the studies in the last chapter. It is very unusual for self-help books, and books on emotional intelligence to include original research on the importance of the concept. This makes the book great for those people you know who doubt the importance of E.I. To see how E.I. has made a difference to the U.S. Air Force, and companies like American Express and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce is impressive.
I've actually reviewed the research on the EQ-i, the test that much of the research is based on. The normative group is bigger and better than many tests in the marketplace: almost 42,000 people in 36 countries. There are also some good scientific publications on it. While there is no "perfect" test of E.I., I haven't found anything that even comes close to this one. In fact, I've come across many tests being used by companies that don't even come close to having the research that this one has. But the book is not about the test. You can't even get the test unless you are a psychologist or qualified management consultant or vocational counsellor.
Was the book an advertisement? Not really. The examples, which are very realistic, cover work and home situations.
Rated #3 Best Business Book of The Year.......2001-01-24
I bought this book because it was rated the #3 best business book of the year in the Globe and Mail (Canada's National Newspaper), Wednesday, December 15. - even higher than "Who Moved My Cheese?".
I was not disappointed. I found it easy to read and quick to get into. The book gives a great overview of emotional intelligence - I now have a better understanding of what it really is. A few different definitions are given, but the focus is on Bar-On's theory.
While the book's research data, presented at the beginning and end, is based on Bar-On's test, it is not the focus of the book. The bulk of the book deals with each of the 15 areas of emotional intelligence - how you can gauge yourself, and how you can improve.
The examples are very good. After I finished the book, my 12-year-old son picked it up. He started to flip through it and ended up reading it - and he doesn't get through too many books.
I've recommended it to a few people at work and they weren't dissapointed.
Just an "Infomercial".......2001-01-05
I was surprised and disappointed to find The EQ Edge was just an "infomercial" for Reuven Bar-On's emotional intelligence test. Steven Stein is the publisher of the test AND the book's senior author. The book's content is largely a series of testimonials and unsubstantiated claims which have the same credibility as the latest diet fad.
I am a practicing Industrial/Organizational Psychologist who would love to have a genuine test of emotional intelligence; but, in my opinion, Bar-On's EQ-i test fails to measure up to basic professional standards of validity.
In a nut shell, it is under researched and over hyped. At this point in it's development, the test is definitely not something I would dare use for real world personnel decisions.
Book Description
Nothing so needs reforming as other people’s habits,” said Mark Twain. Taking this wry observation to heart, renowned author Aubrey Daniels shows readers exactly what steps are required to live a life filled with harmonious relationships, fulfilling connections, and minimal discord and conflict. Using the proven staying power of positive reinforcement, Daniels offers indispensable advice on how to: Establish effective relationships based on mutual respect and shared expectations Keep the lines of communication open—so friends, family, and co-workers always know exactly what is expected of them How to pinpoint and identify the desired behavior you want How to use positive reinforcement to bring about the desired behavior change
Customer Reviews:
Behavior mod at its best.......2006-05-09
Well-written and well-researched, this book has the power to revolutionize human interaction. On my suggested reading list.
Effective and kind!.......2006-05-07
The words positive reinforcement inspire different thoughts in different people. Sadly, some think "weak" or "manipulative." But, properly understood, it is neither.
"The world can be a cruel place" is often used as an excuse for introducing cruelty to children, or using it on animals and employees. When I hear that argument, that's when the words "weak" and "manipulative" spring to my mind.
Daniels' writing is easy to read, and he makes a great case for the practicality, effectiveness and deep reward of using reinforcement for others, as well as embracing it when it is directed at us. He clearly lays out all of the aspects of using it well and carefully, not just randomly "being nice."
Rewarded by Rewards: The Benefits of Behavior Analysis.......2004-08-03
It seems safe to say that the goal of any responsible person in a position of authority, whether that person is a parent, teacher, therapist, or business manager, is to see others be successful, productive, and satisfied with whatever they do. For most people, however, there is a big question mark as to just how we can accomplish these goals.
Other People's Habits provides some of the clearest examples describing how the principles of behavior analysis can be used to achieve these goals for the benefit of everyone. Daniels does a wonderful job differentiating between recognition, reward, and reinforcement, and how each process is likely to affect the actions of another. His Do's and Don'ts for implementing positive reinforcement successfully are extremely clear and helpful (along with having a great deal of empirical support in the research literature, unlike the majority of procedures described in many pop psychology books). Daniels also describes in detail how most individuals who claim to be using behavior analytic principles are, in fact, often misusing these principles with disastrous results. Rather than turning people into disgruntled non-productive individuals, as author Alfie Kohn likes to suggest in his book Punished By Rewards, positive reinforcement is a very effective process to help each person achieve a productive and meaningful life, when used properly.
Readers who are parents may also wish to look at another book, The Power of Positive Parenting by Latham, for the successful application of behavior analytic principles with children. Scholars who are interested in the intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation debate and how it has played out in the research literature may also wish to pick up a copy of Rewards and Intrinsic Motivation: Resolving the Controversy by Cameron and Pierce.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement.......2004-06-21
This is an exceptionally well-organized and clear book. Superficially, it might seem like "only" a suggestion to compliment others more often. However, what distinguishes it from self-help books that emphasize willpower and attitude is the reliance on the teachings of B.F.Skinner's radical behaviorism.
This is one of the best and few books on applying behaviorism to everyday living that I've aware of. You can read Skinner (e.g. "Science and Human Behavior" or his 3-part autobiography) to understand the scientific foundation of his approach and to get a few ideas how you can manage yourself better, but I have found it difficult to work out just how to apply the lessons of behaviorism in daily life. Advancements have been made in applications to such areas as autism and to education, but these require highly trained behavior analysts.
What Daniels has done is work out and carefully explain a straight-forward way in which anyone can apply behaviorism. His advice seems entirely consistent with Skinner, including the avoidance of punishment. Key basics of behaviorism are made simple by Daniels, who has the clearest explanation of the key behaviorist term "contingency" that I've found.
If he didn't so carefully explain how he arrives at this advice, it might seem simplistic. Just compliment? But significantly more than that, for he identifies a number of rules that must hold to effectively positive reinforce others. And because it doesn't require too many rules, it seems quite manageable. I haven't tried it much yet, but I mean to start doing so soon. I hope to succeed because I'll have the scientific power of behaviorism, the laws of nature and the apparent wisdom of Daniels supporting me and keeping it simple.
Bringing out the best in others is a worthy endeavor.......2003-04-18
I don't see why anyone should settle for second best. I read anything and everything on how to be my best and bring out the best in others. I really like the author's perspective of confronting habits. So much of our activity is automatic, based on old coping mechanisms.
This author recognizes that we do have the power to help others be their best and that self-limiting habits need to be conquered. The reader is given a series of steps to take to overcome these habits. Try them!
Amazon.com
After fourteen years of working shoulder to shoulder with GE tough guy Jack Welch, Roseanne Badowski is not afraid of what she calls the "s-word." She argues that all of us are secretaries as well as managers. In Managing Up, Badowski leverages lessons she learned in building a stellar relationship with her boss. She offers smart and solid advice beginning with her "Can you start on Monday?" interview with Welch, and then turning to the skills of "navigating a boss Monday through Friday." The book' s chapter titles may sound prosaic, but her approach crackles with energy and fresh ideas. For example, she writes about trust by including "time-tested phrases for breaking bad news." She details the perils of being unprepared and puts in a good word for nagging. She also makes a persuasive argument for the advantages of cultivating impatience to enhance productivity. With splashy anecdotes and checklists, Badowski offers realistic and and disciplined counsel. Hero worshippers be warned: Although Welch wrote the book's introduction, Badowski is such an engaging no-nonsense advisor that she becomes the most compelling manager represented in her book. --Barbara Mackoff
Book Description
Everyone has a boss. And anyone who has aspired to move up the corporate ladder knows that their relationship with those they report to is crucial. In Managing Up Rosanne Badowski offers a straightforward, entertaining, no-holds-barred account of what it takes to make your relationship with your boss work to your advantage, no matter where you stand in the corporate hierarchy.
Told through rich, colorful anecdotes about her years spent working with one of the smartest, most demanding and dynamic business leaders of the twentieth century, legendary GE CEO Jack Welch, Badowski reveals the secrets to career success she has gleaned over the years. At heart, it’s about working with the person above you to create a productive and effective partnership.
Everyone is a manager, in one way or another, Badowski points out. She discusses first-hand what it’s like to have to be a mind reader, to anticipate the future, to plan for the unexpected, and to perform the impossible. With refreshing candor and a hint of attitude, Badowski’s advice is unlike any other. She advises us that “Impatience is a virtue,” to “Have no shame,” and to “Beware the too-quiet office.” Having worked in one of the most challenging, high-profile corporate environments anywhere, no one knows more about prioritizing, about making decisions on behalf of your boss, about sifting through a daily barrage of data and information, about multitasking at warp speed, and exhibiting grace under fire. Ultimately, Badowski says, excelling at what you do is about a shared passion for the job.
Managing Up is an invaluable guide for managing your career and juggling responsibilities with finesse and confidence. It should become a management bible for anyone hoping to get ahead in their profession.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Touch of fame elevates Welch's secretary's management tips.......2006-10-19
This is the reminiscence of a famous CEO's secretary, but it is better than you might expect. Jack Welch's former executive assistant and now author Rosanne Badowski spins anecdotes nicely. She also provides some possibly inadvertent grains of salt to season everything else you may have read about her boss. However, the idea that her warmly chatty observations can generate a respectable book is a tribute to the power of his legend - and her entertaining recollections. The image of a CEO whose secretary has to go through his trash to keep track of what he's been doing is very revealing. So is the idea of a secretary going behind her super-boss like Mommy behind a toddler, turning off faucets he can't be bothered to shut for himself. Welch acknowledges in the forewordthat he was a difficult, sometimes aggravating boss. He says Badowski, "lived and breathed work," and he praises her "loyalty, discretion and forgiveness" and well as her long hours, the care she took with confidential information and her talent for dealing with those who seek it. Badowski pulls few punches, so you may well agree with Welch's self-assessment after you read her book. However, Welch was also, on occasion, a brilliant manager, and Badowski became a strong one, too. We find that her up-close viewpoint includes some useful managerial insights and just enough gossip to keep your batteries charged.
Should have been called "My Life with Jack Welch".......2005-11-12
I was disappointed by this book for three reasons. First, the key points Badowski makes about "managing up" are tediously self evident. I already knew this information before reading the book. Second, the author teaches via anecdotes, which is not an effective way to elaborate on key points here. She spends too much time talking about her experiences with Jack Welch, in effect, snuffing out any worthwhile analysis. Finally, the book is laced with logical fallacies, contradictions, and improper advice. For example, instead of being "detail-oriented," the author advises her readers to aspire toward "perfectionism," which is both crippling and problematic. Overall, I felt like I was stuck at a dinner party across from a secretary, name dropping and telling me stories.
Right on Target..........2005-06-10
...which explains her success as a partner with Jack Welch.
Ro has hit the nail on the head here. It's not really about keeping his favorite yogurt on tap or catering to his needs, it's about removing the obstacles and the minutiae so that the leadership can lead instead of wasting time on those things that can be done by others. It's more about being a true partner than it is about being a sterotypical assistant.
My take on this book is that although written by an assistant, it is applicable to anyone who has a boss and who wants to be a solution instead of just an employee. Many people take issue with being asked to handle things that they deem are "personal" for thier boss. That conversation is a waste of time and will be a deciding factor on how high you will go in your career. Make no mistake, for leaders of large organizations, there is no distinction between a personal and a work life. They are one. So, Ro really points out that being a solution for Jack sometimes meant that she had to make sure those "personal" things were managed to completion by someone other than Jack. That freed Jack up to take care of business.
Pre-managing your boss is a great way to bring speed to the entire organization. Ro stated early on that she was a creator of time. That is one of the most powerful offers that one can make to their boss and their organization. Time is the most precious asset that many of us claim to not have enough of. By ensuring that Jack didn't have to sweat the small stuff and sift through unneccessary crap, she was able to create the time for Jack to become the leader he is and to bring more prosperity to the organization and the people who support it. Be it personal or business, she handled it.
Observe also, that while many may think of Rosanne Badowski as just an assistant who wrote a book, she obviously has enough insight and leadership skills of her own to be the assistant of one of the most powerful CEO's for 14 years and...she wrote a book about it. I am also quite sure that she has enjoyed some prosperity as a result of her success with Jack.
Insulting.......2004-11-03
I found this book insulting to women. The issue I have is that Roseann catered to her boss.. keeping his favorite yogurt on hand. I personally was completely turned off when she wrote that she had no family (husband/kids). If this is the kind of life you want.. to be the "left hand" of a powerful person, then this would be the book for you. I'd be more impressed if Roseann fulfilled her role at work AND had a family.
True Comments about Creating Success in any Organization.......2004-05-21
Ro writes a good book because it is all about what matters in creating a successful relationship with those above, below and beside you. Too often books are full of theory and go way too far on processes. The ability to relate insightful information using examples and stories is much more telling of a great communicator. Rosanne Badowski tells it like it is, was and should be to create successful relationships with those around us. Success is not only a goal but it becomes the "Passion" of those that strive for it.
To describe situations of success along with failures is telling that we must strive to do our best as long as it takes no matter how hard the path. Badowski invites you into her daily toils, strategic goals for success and her laugh a day world under Jack Welch. A great story about people and how they make the difference in an organization and how accepting those differences, makes a truly great organization. A great book for all of us to enjoy.
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- E-Commerce: Business, Technology, Society (3rd Edition)
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- Enterprise Services Architecture: Designing IT for Business Innovation
- Freakonomics [Revised and Expanded]: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
- Global Strategy (with World Map and InfoTrac )
- Good to Great and the Social Sectors: A Monograph to Accompany Good to Great
- Good to Great and the Social Sectors: A Monograph to Accompany Good to Great
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Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time
