The Art of Talking to Anyone: Essential People Skills for Success in Any Situation

Book Description

From the author of How to Say It, the million-copies-sold bestseller

If you want to improve your conversational skills--and achieve greater levels of personal and professional success--The Art of Talking to Anyone is the ultimate book. Rosalie Maggio has built a career on teaching people how to say the right thing at the right time--and she's made her techniques available to you.

This essential communication handbook includes:

Sample dialogues, topics, and responses
Quick-reference dos and don'ts
Tips for handling special situations
Confidence-building advice and quotations
Key words that get to the business at hand

Whether it's small talk or big, social or work-related, The Art of Talking to Anyone gives you all the tools you need to speak up with confidence, to charm and persuade, and to talk your way through any situation--successfully.

Customer Reviews:

More annoying than helpful.......2007-06-22

I have recently been into social dynamics and thought a book about the fine points of conversation would be helpful. Unfortunately, the book seems to be written by a prude who makes every effort to make your conversations as dull and boring as the book itself is.
Some major issues with the book.
a) Although "art" is the word chosen, most of the advice consists of things to avoid and in very specific detail (for example she says NEVER to say "to make a long story short")
b)More than half of the book text consists of assanine quotes from others that hardly relate to the subject as well as NUMEROUS and seemingly endless lists of statement examples (ie. "How nice of you" etc.) The author fails to realize that reading these are incredibly uninteresting and eliminate any sense of style one may develop. To top it off they are in alphabetical order which makes it easier to quickly glance over them.
c) The author seems to want to make you a parrot by telling you exactly how to respond in certain situations. She also often contradicts herself in these examples. She states to not say anything personal to anyone you meet yet reccomends a converstation starter as "you look fit, what do you do for a workout regiment".

Overall this book is a complete waste of time written by someone who I would never want to have a conversation with. She is so afraid of making a mistake that I would end up talking to her for an hour about the weather.

Conversations (at least socially) are meant to be fun, not exercises in safety. It is not the end of the world if you take a risk. It makes for a memorable conversation. I would avoid this book like SARS.

The Art of Talking to Anyone.......2006-06-30

The author provides savvy, helpful ideas on improving communication in all situations. Very good.

Not at all what I was hoping for.......2006-06-20

I put this audiobook in my Wish List several weeks before it came out. What I was hoping for was some good info on the psychology and execution of the lost art of conversation. What I got was an endless list of do's and do nots. I ONLY recommend this for EXTREME introverts. If you are looking to polish your social skills or socialize with anyone other than friends then keep looking.

How to be a boring individual.......2006-05-25

The first 1 or 2 chapters of this book do indeed give you some good pointers on how to build rapport and to look for common threads, all very important parts of a conversation. However the latter chapters really get dull and tend to advice the reader to shy away from responding openly to real life situations such as when a friend approaches you with a problem, the author advices that you shy away from really putting yourself in their shoes and offering help, rather it gives you advice on how to decline offering help to someone in need. It also advices the reader not to tell jokes in any situation or to shy away from tellign detailed stories. Whilst for a social lepper this maybe sound advice most of us want to live in a world full of excitement and have conversations that are fullfilling for everyone, not just being a bore and trying to "fit in". Perhaps as an Brit this book is very American centric, but I'm sure even Americans are not even so boring!

Basic and Specifics of Talking in Various Situations........2005-08-05

Much of life starts with conversation. To some of us it comes easy, to some of us it is very difficult. Perhaps the hardest is the conversation at a job interview, or that first conversation with someone to whom you are attracted.

In the job interview, the interviewer will usually be asking questions. Your job is to provide the answers he wants to hear. Even if you decide you don't want the job, if you don't get an offer you don't get to decide.

In the romantic area it's really much easier. If both of you are interested, the conversation will flow - once you get it started. If the other person isn't interested, there isn't anything you can do to change it, move on to the next person. Getting it started is your job, and as with the other situations where you need help, this book will give you some good ideas. Good ideas of both things to say, and things not to say.

This book has eight chapters on the basics of being a good conversationalist. Then there are nine chapters on talking in various situations from the workplace to social events to talking with romance in mind. She knows what she is talking about.

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion

Average customer rating:

A must for anyone who deals with difficult people
Outstanding book and program
A must read for all Law Enforcement.
THIS BOOK REALLY,REALLY, SUCKS!!!
Very good book

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion
George J. Thompson , and Jerry B. Jenkins
Manufacturer: Quill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Public Speaking | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0688137865

Book Description

How often do you flnd yourself on the losing end of an argument? What percentage of your success in life depends on your success in conversation? Believe it or not, if you are like most people, your answer would be 98 percent or more.

Do you have a plan ready when you find yourself confronting an adversary at work? At home? On a dark street at night? Or do you just react from habit or emotion? As George Thompson says, "When you react, the event controls you. When you respond, you're in control."

Verbal Judo is a philosophy that can show you how to be better prepared in every verbal encounter: How to listen and speak more effectively; how to engage people through empathy (the most powerful word in the English language); how to avoid the most common conversational disasters; how, instead, to have a proven, easily remembered strategy that will allow you to successfully communicate your point of view and take the upper hand in most disputes.

Customer Reviews:

A must for anyone who deals with difficult people.......2007-08-15

I am an acoustical and systems design consultant, and prior to that have held jobs in sound contracting and public assembly facility technical operations for a total of approximately 25 years. As anybody who has worked in the entertainment, performing arts, hospitality, or religious world can attest, I come into contact with more than my fair share of difficult people and tense situations.

This book and the courses authorized or taught by its author were highly recommended to me approximately 15 years ago by a police lieutenant who gave a guest lecture in a criminology class I was taking in college. This same officer also mentioned the book at an in-house training event at the university sports/concert arena where I worked at the time. It is with no small amount of embarrassment that I must report that it took me until last year to "get around to" buying and reading this book. I certainly could have used its advice, even years before it was written!

Suffice it to say that Verbal Judo is the type of book that is enlightening upon the initial read-through, but whose true value only comes from steady effort to change one's behaviors from long-held bad habits. I believe learning would be far more effective with ongoing practice and coaching, just as with a physical martial art. However, until such a dojo opens its doors in my fair city, I shall have to make do with re-reading the book and discussing its application with others who have been similarly blessed by its wisdom.

Outstanding book and program.......2007-07-16

We are taught Verbal Judo in my line of work. It's an outstanding program. The book goes into how the program originated and explains it in detail. If you're into law enforcement, security or EMS this book should be mandatory reading.

A must read for all Law Enforcement........2007-06-19

I have heard the term "verbal judo" tossed around at work since first becoming a Deputy Sheriff with a metro Atlanta Sheriff's Office almost a year ago. For a few years verbal judo was taught to all new deputies but apparently our department let our certification lapse and as such when I joined it had ceased to be taught.

Well I want to be the best deputy that I can be and thus I went and ordered this book. I couldn't put it down! I carried it with me while I worked at the jail and read it in my office on my down time. In two days I finished the book and felt like I had a new weapon to add to my arsenal when dealing with people.

I liked the book so much, I actually loaned it to another deputy on my shift and like wise he couldn't put it down. Another deputy saw him reading the book, asked him where he got and she then proceed to track me down and ask if she could borrow the book next.

The books made me rethink all the altercations I have had at the jail and even in life. How I could have handle things better. As I prepare to go to academy in September and then shortly afterwards, the road, I feel that by taking the time to educate myself on this vital concept, I have greatly helped prepare myself for not only the road but for life itself.

THIS BOOK REALLY,REALLY, SUCKS!!!.......2007-06-06

THIS BOOK TITLE IS VERY MISLEADING..IT DOESN'T GIVE THE TYPE OF KNOWLEDGE IT IMPLIES..IF YOU WANT ANY TYPE OF SKILL, IN TERMS OF COMMUNICATION OR OTHERWISE, THE 48 LAWS OF POWER HAS IT! AS DOES ALL OF ROBERT GREENES OTHER BOOKS..THAT IS AN AUTHOR THAT DOESN'T FALSE ADVERTISE! HE TEACHES EXACTLY WHAT HE CLAIMS AND MUCH MORE!CHECK HIM OUT.THE ART OF SEDUCTION BY GREENE IS ALSO MUCH MORE HELPFUL IN VERBAL SITUATIONS, THOUGH NOT AS MUCH AS HIS OTHER TWO BOOKS.BUYING HIS THREE DEFINITELY WON'T DISAPPOINT

The 48 Laws of Power

Very good book.......2007-05-24

I found this book very interesting and useful.
I wish only not to forget to refresh verbal judo guidelines - I tend
to return to my old , not sophisticated ways of dealing with difficult people..
The idea of "Verbal Judo" makes all the ideas in this book memorable
and significant . Good attitude and wise form of presentation.
I really thank the author for this remarkable book

How To Get Your Point Across In 30 Seconds Or Less Cassette (Simon and Schuster Sound Ideas)

Average customer rating:

You should if you care about communication
Egotistical Hollywood "Bigshot" fossil selling used cars
Don't wait more than 30 seconds to buy this book!
A good little book about the art of communication
Sometimes 30 Seconds Is An Eternity

How To Get Your Point Across In 30 Seconds Or Less Cassette (Simon and Schuster Sound Ideas)

Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

General | Books on Cassette | Audiobooks | Formats | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Running Meetings & Presentations | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Public Speaking | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Accessories:

Sony WMFX479 Walkman

ASIN: 0671602470

Book Description

GET YOUR LISTENER'S ATTENTION, KEEP HIS INTEREST, AND MAKE YOUR POINT -- ALL IN THIRTY SECONDS!

Milo Frank, America's foremost business communications consultant, shows you how to:

* Focus your objectives

* Utilize the "hook" technique

* Use the secrets of TV and advertising writers

* Tell terrific anecdotes that make your point

* Shine in meetings, question-and-answer sessions, and more!

Milo Frank's proven techniques give you the edge that successful people share -- the art of communicating quickly, precisely and powerfully!

Customer Reviews:

You should if you care about communication.......2007-08-20

I care about the skills to communicate effectively and successfully. So do you?
I am tired of reading standard textbook or "expert advice" pages after pages. So are you?
I really enjoyed reading this small and thin book (only 120 pages) with articulating words and practical suggestions. So will you!

Egotistical Hollywood "Bigshot" fossil selling used cars .......2007-05-14

I found the book to be ironic. The title promotes that it teaches you how to get your point across efficiently to achive a desired outcome. But it was so verbose, I found myself scanning through 80% of each chapter to get to the point. At the end of each chapter is the 30 second take away. If you skip to the end and read these sections you can save yourself 2 hours. The rest of the chapters are filled with the author recounting his experiences wheeling and dealing in Hollywood and pumping his own accomplishments. It is also dated, he celebrates his own success in TV show/movies/other entertainment endeavors that are sooooooo old a 35 year old in the know does not recognize them making it hard to understand the point. In addition the temporal context does not address common electronic communication tools we use today (email, blogging, PowerPoint)

This book may have been a good resource for the 1970's and 80's but it does not translate well to the current environment. I think you could easily find the lessons in this book and more on a typical free career coaching website.

Lastly, I do not feel that the author has the appropriate expertise and credentials. This book may be useful in the specific context of "doing deals in Hollywood" but it does not translate to my world well.

Don't wait more than 30 seconds to buy this book!.......2006-08-14

This book should be read by everyone! Whether you are a salesperson, a public speaker, or anyone that wants to communicate more effectively, this book will help you do it. Written in a breezy, interesting style, the author gives great suggestions on how to make a presentation effectively. It is a short book, by design. My only regret about this book is that I was unaware of its existence until a month ago.

Executive summary. TV commercials are 30 seconds long for a reason. If you learn to keep your message short, to the point, and interesting, people will listen to you. Milo Frank lays out the steps in this wonderful gem of a book.

Outline:

1. Keep it to 30 seconds. People have a short attention span. It works for TV commercials. Three Basic Principles: Knowing what you want, who can give it to you and how to get it.
2. The Objective. Your objective is your goal, purpose or destination. You can have only one objective. In every form of communication, your thoughts and words should introduce, reinforce, or help you achieve your adjective. You do not have to state your objective except to yourself.
3. The Audience. Go to the right person, the person who can give you what you want. Know as many facts about the person's) you'll be talking to. Identify with your listener. What does he want from you, and what one thing more than any other will get a favorable reaction from him?
4. The Right Approach. The single thought or sentence that will best lead to your objective. The right approach will also take into consideration the needs and interest of your listener. It will give you focus and keep you on track toward achieving your objective.
5. The Hook. A statement or an object used specifically to get attention. Use your hook as the first statement in your 30 second message. It should relate to your objective, your listener, and your approach. A statement, dramatic or humorous. If it's a question, it must be answered. Anecdotes or personal experiences are excellent hooks. Your entire message can be a hook. Keep a hook book.
6. Your Subject. Catch them, Keep Them, Convince Them. What, who, where, when, why and how. Know your subject and present it as concisely and forcefully as possible.
7. Ask for the order. Action close calls for specific action within a specific time frame. The reaction, reverse-psychology close is the strategy o use when your best chance is to ask indirectly. Decide your close in advance.
8. Paint a picture. Imagery, colorful pictures. Clarity: don't use technical terms just to sound knowledgeable. Personalize it with a story. Use emotional appeal - touch the heart.
9. Spotlight on you. How you say it matters as much as what you say. First impressions: pen vs. pen in a box with a ribbon tied around it. SMILE! Inspires confidence and understanding, and makes a good first impression. Eye contact establishes sincerity. Every little movement matters. Posture reveals what you think of yourself and of your listener. Self-awareness. What you wear sends powerful signals, and shows you care. Facial expression: goal is spontaneity and sincerity. Be prepared and care about what you're saying. (Passion) Body Language: stand, don't sit. Voice: animation, enthusiasm, variety, informality, sincerity, color & variety, modulate your volume. Use pauses.
10. One or a Thousand: Great communication. Establish intimacy with your audience by making them feel that you're talking directly to them. Master, not memorize. Outline your talk: objective, approach, subject, hook, 5Ws. Start and finish without 3x5 cards. Stop talking if you look at notes. Even before you start, make eye contact with audience. Variety. Write an introduction for your introducer. Always leave them wanting more.
11. Any time, any place. The question turnabout: "you're absolutely right, and one other point is.." Know your objective, listener and approach before making any business phone call. The rules of the 30 second message also apply to memos, Thank You letters, and toasts.

A good little book about the art of communication.......2006-05-05

What sort of person do you really hate to engage in conversation? For me, it's somebody who doesn't know when to stop speaking.
Frank declares that the basic attention span is about 30 seconds, and that if you don't make your point in that amount of time, you've lost your chance to be heard.
He then goes on to tell you how to deliver an effective message in 30 seconds.
The book is very well written, and only 120 pages long. It's well worth reading.

Sometimes 30 Seconds Is An Eternity.......2006-02-27

The most interesting thing about this book is that the author feels no pressure to legitimize his assertion that there is something special about 30 seconds. Because his background is in the field of television entertainment, (never to be confused with communications), he finds significance in the length of television commercials, which frequently run 30 seconds. That this is done for financial reasons, not attention-span reasons, has evaded him completely. HTGYPAI3SOL is just another in the endless chain of How To books penned by individuals struggling with delusions of expertise, whose only skill is self-promotion, that package the obvious and resell it to the gullible. Readers who find anything in this slim and overpriced tome even remotely surprising or counter-intuitive are advised to probe deeper into the self-help section of the bookstore for volumes on Shoe-Tying For Beginners, The ABCs Of Writing Your Name, and Gravity - It's Not Just A Good Idea, It's The Law.

Fearless Public Speaking: Three Simple Steps to Overcome the Fear of Making Presentations

Average customer rating:

Fearless Public Speaking: Three Simple Steps to Overcome the Fear of Making Presentations
Anne L Anastasi CLTP
Manufacturer: iUniverse, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 059538305X

Book Description

"This book should be mandatory reading for anyone in business who has ever been asked to make a presentation."
- Rick Wolff, Editorial Director, Warner Business Books

Our annual convention was a great success and your segments on the agenda received rave reviews. I believe that your name on the agenda played a big part in boosting our attendance. Following your presentation I heard one member say "I would listen to her talk about anything."
- Jill Trapp, Executive Director Tennessee Land Title Association

Does the pit of your stomach ache at the thought of making a speech? Don't panic! Professional speaker Anne L. Anastasi can help with her innovative book, Fearless Public Speaking.

Filled with practical advice for anyone who needs to make a public presentation- whether the talk is to one person or an auditorium filled with thousands Fearless Public Speaking will help you overcome the fear of public speaking.

Amateurs and professionals alike will benefit from using Anastasi's three simple steps: prepare, practice, and present with passion. Seasoned speechmakers will learn new ways to handle difficult situations using humor and humility, and college students will gain the confidence need to present themselves better.

Fearless Public Speaking will even help those who would like to feel more comfortable in front of others. Improve your speaking skills, tame your fears, and become more productive in your professional and personal lives!

Life Is a Series of Presentations: 8 Ways to Punch Up Your People Skills at Work, at Home, Anytime, Anywhere

Average customer rating:

Good book, if you are not a professional presenter.
Good read....great advice...a keeper!
Disappointing
Good information but ...
Packed with Knowledge!

Life Is a Series of Presentations: 8 Ways to Punch Up Your People Skills at Work, at Home, Anytime, Anywhere
Tony Jeary , Kim Dower , and J.E. Fishman
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

Interpersonal Relations | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Running Meetings & Presentations | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Books on CD | Audiobooks | Formats | Books
Similar Items:

Accessories:

ASIN: 0743535901

Amazon.com

Communication coach Tony Jeary estimates that we make one hundred presentations every day. He tells readers, "Whether you are talking to a soccer coach or potential client, the way you present your thoughts and ideas to people have a profound effect on the shape of your life." Jeary paves the road to friendly persuasion with theory and practice in Life is a Series of Presentations.

Drawing upon established research in the psychology of influence and neuro-linguistic programming, he guides readers to define their "presentation universe" by using a "3 Dimension" (what-why-how) outline. Although Jeary introduces eight general practices of successful presenters, he shines in describing the practical nuances of presentations including how to: do homework to understand an audience, cut tensions that interfere with rapport, give an audience breathing space, handle hecklers, wrestle stage fright to the ground, and build a presentation arsenal of anecdotes.

A call to self-awareness adds depth to his strategies. For example, one insightful chapter lists eight inhibitors (such as perfectionism, desire to please, aloofness, and good student syndrome) that sabotage presentations. Another section focuses on the anatomy of how to say "thank-you"--and what it communicates about a speaker's self regard. At times, the chapters suffer from too many theories backing up Jeary's smart suggestions. But this is an insightful book on how to change someone's mind. --Barbara Mackoff

Book Description

Presentation Mastery Is The Key to Professional and Personal Success.

As presentation coach to America's top CEOs, Tony Jeary is known as Mr. Presentation™. In his work with more than 500 world-class organizations in 35 countries, he has found a common denominator in every situation: Your success in life depends upon how you approach the millions of opportunities before you. In this insightful and compelling audiobook, Jeary reveals the eight simple secrets that you can put to work immediately to achieve dramatic results!

Unless you're a hermit living on a mountaintop, your life largely consists of interactions with the people around you. Jeary's eight essential practices allow you to master any interaction, whether it involves a roomful of colleagues, a small group, or just one person. You will learn:

• The big question presenters consistently forget to ask themselves
• The 10 personality types you must be able to recognize and handle
• The firepower of your own Presentation Arsenal
• The magic behind the mnemonic I P R E S E N T

Engaging, informative, and loaded with useful anecdotes, this audiobook will teach you skills that change the way you approach every situation. You will gain confidence, respect, and credibility while being more time-efficient and, of course, more influential. This will have an immediate impact on you, both professionally and personally. Because your life is a series of presentations.

Download Description

" Presentation Mastery Is the Key to Professional and Personal Success. As presentation coach to America's top CEOs, Tony Jeary has become known as Mr. PresentationT. In his work with more than 500 world-class organizations in 35 countries, he has found a common denominator in every situation: Your success in life depends upon how you approach the millions of opportunities before you. And in this insightful and compelling book, Jeary reveals the eight simple secrets that you can put to work immediately to achieve dramatic results both at work and at home -- and everywhere else! Unless you're a hermit living on a mountaintop, your life largely consists of your interactions with the people around you. Whether you call them presentation skills or people skills, these eight essential practices will allow you to master any interaction, whether it involves a roomful of colleagues, a small group, or just one other person. You will learn to understand both why the eight essentials work as well as how they work, including: the single word that will convince 93 percent of your listeners every time the big question presenters consistently forget to ask themselves the 10 personality types you must be able to recognize and handle the firepower of your own Presentation Arsenal the magic behind the mnemonic I P R E S E N T. Engaging, informative, and loaded with useful anecdotes, this book will teach you easy-to-use skills that change the way you approach every situation and that will have an immediate impact on you, both professionally and personally. Because your life is a series of presentations."

Customer Reviews:

Good book, if you are not a professional presenter........2006-08-13

I'm not a professional presenter, but as a manager I'm constantly faced with this challenge. The book is the first one I purchase on the subject and I'm quite pleased with what I red. His tips are well presented and structured with useful real world examples. The reading is easy, logical and builds up. Overall I definitely think is worth the money. Again, it may not be material for a professional, but if you want to improve your daily presentations (very interesting point of view that this book introduces) and sail a little easier in life, definitely worth your money.

As daily presentation he points out that every time we have an important speech (and for him this may be you daily review with your peers, boss, staff, or a chat with your neighbors, wife, etc) if you spend a little time preparing for this you can gain tremendously. It makes sense, and is actually very wise. Something we take for granted and pay very little attention. I've already started to "prepare" for phone calls with my boss and staff. Runs much easier and I'm gaining trust from my staff and growing under my boss's eyes.

Good read....great advice...a keeper! .......2006-05-02

I'm a pretty experienced presenter (to groups and one-on-one) and I found this book quite helpful. For anyone whose success depends on their ability to influence, you'll want to read this book. Many, many good points--especially the emphasis on preparation. Most people give lip-service to preparation, Tony lives it! The stories are great and teach a lot. It's an easy read...and was definitely worth my time.

For people looking for help (especially) with formal presentations, I'd also recommend You Are The Message, by Roger Ailes.

Bill Wiersma, Author, The Big AHA!

Disappointing.......2005-07-20

I was expecting a book on presentations and was disappointed. The book had some anecdotes about the author's life that were okay but I was left uninspired. Of course, every encounter you have in business can be judged just as if you were doing a presentation, but this needs to be the subject of a whole book? I don't think so.

Wrong book for the right person; wrong person for the right book.

Good information but ..........2004-11-15

The author uses the book to sell us that everything we do is a presentation. He is right of course, but I like his more simple, to the point 136 Effective Presenation Tips and Inspire Any Audience. A lot of the same information in a more useable format.

Packed with Knowledge!.......2004-08-04

The book jacket bills author Tony Jeary as "coach to America's top CEOs." It doesn't identify them, but the author clearly has a certain bold presentational style, and stressing his identity as a expert coach could be both a strategic and an educational tactic. The book's content is evergreen, a mixture of hortatory slogans and amusing anecdotes, all designed to make you a better presenter - whether your audience is one listener or an auditorium full of people. The author's advice is, for the most part, solid, detailed, practical and conservative. Don't be too put off by a few dated examples (Bill Clinton and Gary Condit) and if you're pressed for time just read the handy lists of "very important points" that close each chapter. We assure you that you can't waste time reading this book. It's that useful.

Average customer rating:

Speaking for Success
Miculka
Manufacturer: South-Western Educational Pub
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Running Meetings & Presentations | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Public Speaking | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Arts & Photography | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Business & Investing | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Reference | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0538686553

Book Description

Speaking for Success is a fresh new approach that gives users the tools they need to take control and communicate with confidence. This book provides a thorough overview and hands-on practice in the speech communication skills essential for life and work success. Whether talking person to person, in a group, or in front of an audience, they'll get plenty of practical applications with hands on experience in: practicing effective speaking, handling conversations, participating in teams, and gaining confidence in delivering formal and informal presentations. Speaking for Success will have users immediately applying and practicing communication skills.

Communication Skills (Career Skills Library)

Average customer rating:

Communication Skills (Career Skills Library)
Facts on File
Manufacturer: Ferguson Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Running Meetings & Presentations | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Careers | People & Places | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0816055173

Communication Skills (Mastering Career Skills)

Average customer rating:

Communication Skills (Mastering Career Skills)
Ferguson
Manufacturer: Checkmark Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Running Meetings & Presentations | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Guides | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0816071152

Compelling Communication: How to Write and Speak for Success

Average customer rating:

Compelling Communication: How to Write and Speak for Success
Hans Tammemagi
Manufacturer: Fitzhenry and Whiteside
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Business Writing | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Writing | Reference | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Education | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Writing Skills | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Reference | Subjects | Books

Public Speaking | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1550417533
Release Date: 2005-05-20

Book Description

Employers rank good communication as a top factor in determining success and advancement on the job. Yet, the how-to_s of effective and persuasive communication rarely get little attention in high school or post-secondary English courses. Compelling Communication addresses this shortcoming. Written for college students, graduates just entering the workforce and professionals interested in learning the art of persuasion, this guide teaches how to communicate effectively and eloquently in today_s business world. Lively and informative, Compelling Communication is the perfect resource for anyone wanting to improve communication in the workplace.

Conversation Power: Communication Skills for Business and Personal Success

Average customer rating:

A great tool for better communication.
Do Not Listen To This While Driving
Never say "Hello"?
Want to Sound Cliched? Buy this Book
Mostly a Rehash of Dale Carnegie

Conversation Power: Communication Skills for Business and Personal Success
James K. Van Fleet
Manufacturer: Nightingale-Conant
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

General | Books on Cassette | Audiobooks | Formats | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Personal Transformation | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Conversation | Etiquette | Reference | Subjects | Books

Communication | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books

Public Speaking | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Accessories:

ASIN: 0671887920

Book Description

MASTER THE LANGUAGE OF SUCCESS!

Whether you're selling, persuading, advising or explaining, you spend most of your dayto-day life in verbal communication with others. The skills you bring to those exchanges will determine whether they go in your favor -- or leave you behind as others succeed. If you can't communicate your ideas or intentions, you can't expect others to understand them; on the other hand, the better you can make yourself understood, the higher your chances for climbing to the top.

Renowned communications expert James K. Van Fleet guides you through the most effective verbal communications strategies available today. Whatever the situation, your mastery of these basic communication skills can give you an instant powerful advantage.

Imagine yourself:

Striking up a conversation with anyone
Making lasting friendships from initial meetings
Negotiating the services you need from anyone
Enhancing crucial communications lines between employees, colleagues, vendors, and supervisors.

From business meetings to romantic encounters, artful communication can help make almost any situation go right. With Conversation Power, you'll be able to communicate your way to success!

Customer Reviews:

A great tool for better communication........2006-12-17

I too read Carnegie, and I have plenty of common sense. But as an introvert, I still struggled with making good conversation and making my way through small talk when necessary. Plus I'm not a good reader ... I absorb audio tapes much better. This gave me exactly what I needed. Ok, I didn't go "Wow" with everything he said, but he offered many great ways of making conversation, and building my confidence at handling those "small talk" moments. Great suggestions that you never learned in school.

It probably won't mean much to someone who is already a good conversationalist, but it helped me a lot.

Do Not Listen To This While Driving.......2005-10-27

Have common sense? If so, no need to buy this waste of money and time. I borrowed these tapes from a friend and listened to them while driving (nearly put me to sleep). While Van Fleet's suggestions are often valid, they are not particularly inspirational. For instance, the first tape boiled down to "be nice to people" and you will be able to "control them." The examples he used were also very poor. If I used any of his suggestions, I think that people would find me to be extremely superficial (or worse). One of the most amusing suggestions was to tell a waitress that her perfume "makes me feel like a little boy again." Can you say, "Check please?" If you want to have conversation power as Van Fleet suggests, just consult your common sense and the golden rule. Treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself. And save your money by not buying this product.

Never say "Hello"?.......2005-06-26

There was a time in the 80s-early-90s when the market didn't seem to get enough from the self-help wave. So hungry was it that some publishers would release anything without care for quality of content. Look no further, these tapes are a shameless plagiarizing of Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People, at times verbatim! Only more manipulative, if you can imagine such a thing.

I picked this up on a whim at my local library. Although I stopped reading self-help books as a teenager, conversation is a topic of interest to me. Yet very quickly I realized Conversation Power was nothing new to me, or to anyone who read Carnegie, or to anyone over the age of 20! I think Mr. Van Fleet diluted the work enough to avoid being sued; I can see no other explanation why he might've gotten away with it.

This tapes will appeal to a) those who never read Carnegie or b) those who enjoy hearing (I don't exclude myself) old folk knowledge, beyond that, there is nothing radical or breakthrough about Conversation Power. Although rare, there were points when I enjoyed the tapes a bit, it was like listening to grandpa sharing, yet again, the same tips on life that one already knew.

The only original thought here are some tips about conflict resolution at work (annoyingly broken in many steps to give it a luster of systematization) but it's clear they come from self-help brainstorming sessions and not from real world experience.

The testimonies, played by voice actors, all sound like they took place in the 1940s, down to Mr. Van Fleet's own personal comment that "I don't like being mistaken for a German"! Geez.

The "That's-it" moment came when Mr. Fleet said the only rule in conversation that must never be broken, EVER, is to start a conversation by saying "hello". Really? I once met the ambassador of France at a dinner-party by saying "Hello" and we had a jolly conversation (oh wait, I said "Hi"). Yet, although the "rule" is outrageously absolutist, I can sort of see where Mr. Van Fleet was going with that; a "hello" can be hard to follow up at times, but it need not be. I happen to think that that is the best conversation starter. A compliment or a question can give you more material to proceed, but a simple "hello" can be friendly, disarming and honest, but honesty is not what Mr. Van Fleet is necessarily after.

He does pay perfunctory lip service to the importance of "honesty" in relationships but quickly goes back to his manipulative method, powered by words like "dominate", "command" and "under your control". This philosophy, I think, has a time and place; a tough business meeting, running for office, a courtroom, ect. While this may upset your personal ethics and sensibilities it would be wise to remember that some people do operate that way, at least know how they play the game. I side with Nietzsche here, worldly wisdom is A-ok.

The problem comes when Van Fleet applies this philosophy across all spectrums of life. Paying people compliments to gain their favor is nothing new, and need not be completely dishonest. But there is more to a conversation than letting your counterpart brag about themselves while you wait for a chance to "dominate" him/her. Van Fleet's simplistic approach doesn't reflect reality very well (neither did Carnegie's), not everyone we meet is a boastful fool waiting to be taken advantage of, or helpless to our conniving; people are not that deterministic and will spot you a mile away. And while that approach may work at times, it's bound to get you superficial friendships only; you won't get to know anyone at a meaningful level.

There are better ways to move through life than pimping your way to success and acting like a salesman to everyone you meet. Conversation involves more than one person; don't deprive others of what you can offer.
Be yourself, say hello.

Want to Sound Cliched? Buy this Book.......2003-08-14

I just don't know about this book. I admire the fact that it offers specific things to say when encountered with situations, but at the same time, that's its Achilles' heel. For example, people who constantly ask me what I do make me feel important, but at the same time can get on my nerves. That is the thrust of the book: learn as much as you can about the person with whom you are talking. The problem is I just don't feel the suggestions for making first-time conversation will impress anyone. And telling someone to never, ever say "hello" when answering the phone? Maybe it's me, but folks who answer the phone "Top of the mornin'" sound really silly if they are not a close friend. And then you laugh. Imagine it coming from a stranger? You would think he is off his rocker. In my opinion, this subject matter is better covered in a workshop so that one can see the effectiveness. It's a case of "works for some but not for others." The author appears to have hastily thrown something together as if the publisher said, "Write us something...or else!" I'll take the "or else."

Mostly a Rehash of Dale Carnegie.......2003-03-17

Most of this tape is a rehash of Dale Carnegie principles - use people's names, make them feel important, etc. The program is 99% focused on business communications with very little focus on personal communications. 25% of the program gets sidetracked on how to reprimand an employee. I wanted the focus to stay on conversation skills. Also, the author uses way too many lists of steps (i.e. the 11 steps to improving in these areas with several of the 11 steps being 3 or 5 step items in themselves). You must take notes while listening to keep up with all the lists of steps.

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books