Book Description
John Wood discovered his passion, his greatest success, and his life's work--not at business school or leading Microsoft's charge into Asia in the 1990s--but on a soul-searching trip to the Himalayas. Wood felt trapped between an all-consuming career and a desire to do something lasting and significant. Stressed from the demands of his job, he took a vacation trekking in Nepal because a friend had told him, "If you get high enough in the mountains, you can't hear Steve Ballmer yelling at you anymore."
See how John Wood came to start Room to Read and write Leaving Microsoft to Change the World in this video clip: high bandwidth or low bandwidth |
Instead of being the antidote to the rat race, that trip convinced John Wood to divert the boundless energy he was devoting to Microsoft into a cause that desperately needed to be addressed. While visiting a remote Nepalese school, Wood learned that the students had few books in their library. When he offered to run a book drive to provide the school with books, his idea was met with polite skepticism. After all, no matter how well-intentioned, why would a successful software executive take valuable time out of his life and gather books for an impoverished school?
But John Wood did return to that school and with thousands of books bundled on the back of a yak. And at that moment, Wood made the decision to walk away from Microsoft and create Room to Read-an organization that has donated more than 1.2 million books, established more than 2,600 libraries and 200 schools, and sent 1,700 girls to school on scholarship-ultimately touching the lives of 875,000 children with the lifelong gift of education.
Leaving Microsoft to Change the World chronicles John Wood's struggle to find a meaningful outlet for his managerial talents and entrepreneurial zeal. For every high-achiever who has ever wondered what life might be like giving back, Wood offers a vivid, emotional, and absorbing tale of how to take the lessons learned at a hard-charging company like Microsoft and apply them to one of the world's most pressing problems: the lack of basic literacy.
Book Description
John Wood discovered his passion, his greatest success, and his life's work—not at business school or leading Microsoft's charge into Asia in the 1990s—but on a soul-searching trip to the Himalayas. Wood felt trapped between an all-consuming career and a desire to do something lasting and significant. Stressed from the demands of his job, he took a vacation trekking in Nepal because a friend had told him, "If you get high enough in the mountains, you can't hear Steve Ballmer yelling at you anymore."
Instead of being the antidote to the rat race, that trip convinced John Wood to divert the boundless energy he was devoting to Microsoft into a cause that desperately needed to be addressed. While visiting a remote Nepalese school, Wood learned that the students had few books in their library. When he offered to run a book drive to provide the school with books, his idea was met with polite skepticism. After all, no matter how well-intentioned, why would a successful software executive take valuable time out of his life and gather books for an impoverished school?
But John Wood did return to that school and with thousands of books bundled on the back of a yak. And at that moment, Wood made the decision to walk away from Microsoft and create Room to Read—an organization that has donated more than 1.2 million books, established more than 2,600 libraries and 200 schools, and sent 1,700 girls to school on scholarship—ultimately touching the lives of 875,000 children with the lifelong gift of education.
Leaving Microsoft to Change the World chronicles John Wood's struggle to find a meaningful outlet for his managerial talents and entrepreneurial zeal. For every high-achiever who has ever wondered what life might be like giving back, Wood offers a vivid, emotional, and absorbing tale of how to take the lessons learned at a hard-charging company like Microsoft and apply them to one of the world's most pressing problems: the lack of basic literacy.
Customer Reviews:
John Wood, you inspire me!.......2007-09-07
Reading about John Wood's motivations and personal sacrifices, I found myself re-engergized for the volunteer work I do. This book is not just for business people, but for anyone who wants to make a difference in this crazy, beautiful world we live in. Providing children with books whether on a global scale or locally is one of the best gifts (and investments) a person can make. Bravo John! And thanks for making your adventures accessible to the rest of us.
Life Altering Book.......2007-08-21
I managed to finish this book on a flu episode with a fever that lasted two days. It was a great companion at that horrible time.
Now, i read a lot of books. And over time, i got to quickly notice good books from bad books. And ever more, i get to know great books from "books you buy to balance your shelf" books. I try to buy only good books and strive to get all the great ones. This is one of the great ones.
When first browsing through Amazon(yes, i am a very loyal customer), i noticed the title. And being the geek that i am, i wondered what it would talk about(you have to admit, MS and changing the world do not mix easily). I was afraid it would turn out to be a lame book as many books which carry a similar title are. So i took a gamble and i bought it.
It talks about the story of a man(John Wood, marketing executive working at Microsoft) who took a "no-computers" vacation to Nepal. And this vacation changed his life. He describes his life in detail. The details are typical of a modern young successful man working in a high-tech firm. Basically his life consisted of work, work, work and an almost non-existent social life(or any other kind of life for that matter). He thought he was happy this way, we all do, until we stop and take a good look at what we have accomplished.
In Nepal, he noticed that even though some provinces had schools, there were no books and no libraries. So he started out with a little project of collecting a few books for one particular school in Nepal. This all started with a promise to return to Nepal with books. And the whole idea avalanched into one of the most successful projects. An organization that builds schools/libraries and provides books and scholarships for young girls.
I don't want to give out too many details. The beauty of this story is in the events that took place and their chronological order. So i don't want to spoil it. However, i will talk about why i liked this book so much.
John saw the kids in Nepal. He saw that they were trying to learn, but with very poor resources. He also understood that education is the most important gift that you can bestow on a child. Especially girls, since these girls will grow up with this education in mind and carry this belief over to their children and families. "You educate a girl, you educate an entire generation."
After John returned from Nepal, he tried to get back to his old lifestyle. But he could not. How could he? Everything he will do now will seem so empty. How can he go on working knowing that there are children in the world that are not getting the opportunities that we take for granted. He felt so empty. And even if, according to our standard, he is very successful....his life felt meaningless in light of this issue. Everything he accomplished looked so insignificant.
What is truly remarkable though, is that he ran his organization in the same way he would run a normal business. So unlike the other charities around, he never asked people for money out of pity. So instead of showing children with sad faces and sick people like all charities do, he showed the schools he built and the books that he got and the children making use of all of this. It is his belief that contributers do not give money to charity because they don't know where their money is going. They never see results.
I also believe that any book you read must alter your life in some sense. This book did just that. I learned that you shouldn't listen to all the nay-sayers. I learned that for every 1 idea you come up with, there will be a 100 people telling you how it won't work. I also learned to never give up.
If i would only take away one thing from this book, it would be my current favorite quote(which according to the book is an old Chinese quote)
Those who say it cannot be done should not criticize those who are doing it.
This books is highly recommended with 5/5 stars.
great inspiration along with fantastic advice for those who want to change the world.......2007-08-20
Wood brings a fresh, business-like perspective to the often stale world of not-for-profits. His personal journey from career success, to existential angst, to leaving the rat race to change the world is a true inspiration.
Giving back by giving effectively.......2007-07-06
There are plenty of books about one individual's accomplishments in the march to change the world. This book is different because--along with his passion for education and libraries--John Wood brings a model for transforming that passion into sustainable organizations on the ground. If you are actively involved in a nonprofit organization, you will enjoy John's down to earth advice about focusing on results, fundraising, and having fun while you're doing the hard work.
going from corporate executive to do gooder champion.......2007-06-05
This is a good book to understand risk that is inspired by passion. this guy had everything to lose and so much to gain and he did it. Kudos to him and kudos for a well written book.
Book Description
What does it take to turn ideas into action? What are the elements of a perfect pitch? How do you win the war for talent? How do you establish a brand without bucks? These are some of the issues everyone faces when starting or revitalizing any undertaking, and Guy Kawasaki, former marketing maven of Apple Computer, provides the answers.
The Art of the Start will give you the essential steps to launch great products, services, and companies—whether you are dreaming of starting the next Microsoft or a not-for-profit that's going to change the world. It also shows managers how to unleash entrepreneurial thinking at established companies, helping them foster the pluck and creativity that their businesses need to stay ahead of the pack. Kawasaki provides readers with GIST—Great Ideas for Starting Things—including his field-tested insider's techniques for bootstrapping, branding, networking, recruiting, pitching, rainmaking, and, most important in this fickle consumer climate, building buzz.
At Apple, Kawasaki helped turn ordinary customers into fanatics. As founder and CEO of Garage Technology Ventures, he has tested his iconoclastic ideas on real- world start- ups. And as an irrepressible columnist for Forbes, he has honed his best thinking about The Art of the Start.
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely the most useful book I've ever read.......2007-10-24
This is the most practical and inspirational business book I've ever read. It engages the reader with intuitively appealing and effective ways to create a meaningful and profitable venture. It's like having the world's best business coach on your team. Transforms the business planning process into an enjoyable and effective process.
Good, basic.......2007-10-20
This book covers the process of starting a business and raising money. Good basic tips and lots of the boostrapper philosophy. I love Guy's work.
The Art of the start.......2007-10-06
This book is great for getting anything started. Very easy to read and to the point. Anyone can use this book to start anything. Details to look for. I also liked that I could read the first chapter on line before purchasing it.
Great check-list for anyone starting a company........2007-09-07
A great checklist and lots of advice for anyone thinking of starting a company.
Nothing revolutionary, perhaps nothing you wouldn't have thought of yourself, but there is great value in having a well thought-out, complete, list like this.
Only 4 stars because the book seems biased towards venture-funded companies.
The Art of Living.......2007-08-30
Written like he was delivering a speech, Guy Kawasaki has made this an enjoyable and interesting read. All the time I was turning the pages, I kept feeling that much of what he wrote applied to life, and not just starting a business. When I got to the final chapter, "The Art of Being a Mensch", I discovered why I had gotten that feeling - much of Kawasaki's business approach emanates from his way of being in life. Read it for thoughts on how to live; read it for its humor, read it for advice - but do read it! Dennis DeWilde, Author of The Performance Connection.
Book Description
Praise for The Peebles Principles
"Don Peebles is an example of what entrepreneurs are all about. In this engaging and witty book, Peebles shares insights from his own success in the world of high- powered real estate. What makes this book different is Peebles doesn't just focus on the positive, he discusses the failures too—something every entrepreneur can expect in his journey to success. This book should be on every aspiring business- person's bookshelf to be read again and again."
—Robert L. Johnson, Founder, BET and Owner, Charlotte Bobcats
"The Peebles Principles provides a fun read and a bird's-eye view of the ever- changing world of a real estate entrepreneur. It is a good gut check for would-be entrepreneurs to ask if they have what it takes."
—Dr. Peter D. Linnemann, Albert Sussman Professor of Real Estate, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania
"Wow! What magnificent inspiration The Peebles Principles is for anyone seeking to be involved in business. The ground rules found in each chapter are absolute gems, and those alone make the book worth buying."
—Cathy Hughes, Founder and Chairperson, Radio One, Inc.
"This book is a brilliant example of entrepreneurship, creativity, and principles. Peebles walks you through many of his successful deals, from their inception to their completion. Once you start the book you won't be able to put it down until you've finished the last page."
—Dr. Sanford L. Ziff, Founder and Chairman, Sunglass Hut International Inc.
Customer Reviews:
Basic reading for any Real Estate developer.......2007-10-11
I read this book in two days...it is amazing! I am a Real Estate developer (not so big as Mr Peebles, of course)and I did three projects in Miami Beach. Reading that book was like reading the story of my life! It is recomforting to read that bigger developers has the same struggles and experiences than the rest of us! It is very inspirational to see how he has coped with unfavorable situations, turning into positive ones. He is also a pro negotiating contracts and designing projects from scratch.
the most remarkable thing: not only he writes about his success projects, but also about his failed ones. He extracts his "Peebles principles" from the good and the bad ones.Gerat book, you cannot stop reading it (speacially when you have met several of the characters of these stories)
Should Be Required Reading!.......2007-09-24
I can't stop talking about this book! I first heard Mr. Peebles on the Steve Harvey morning show. I was impressed. Then, I had the pleasure of hearing him speak at a Michigan Minority Business Development Council/General Motors event. I was even more impressed. I took home my autographed copy of his book that day and began reading it. I was addicted! I could not put it down! Every spare moment I had, I was in this book! He literally becomes your mentor. This book is a practical application manual. He shares what went wrong and what went right, he names names and pulls no punches! Mr. Peebles has put to shame many other authors, claiming to want to teach us how to become rich in real estate or other industries, for holding out on us!
Must read for ANYONE aspiring to do big deals!.......2007-09-23
This is a very easy to read, step-by-step book of the anatomy of a deal. Often we say that we would like to be the lamp in the room of a big deal and Peebles puts us there time and time again! The candor and honesty expressed regarding the deal structure and his thoughts behind the decisions made was nothing short of generous! I have been in business for seven years. I could not figure out why my firm had not advanced to the next level... Now I understand! For a man, independently wealthy, he charitably gives the rest of us some insight to advancing our own goals and closing our own deals! I have recommended the book to at least 10 colleagues in two weeks!
I love the Peebles Principles.......2007-09-04
I read books all the time about very successful people, most happen to be in industries other than in the Real Estate industry that I am in. I have also read about a lot developers like Donald Trump, but until know this is one of the most successful Minority Developers I have the pleasure of studying. The ability to stand fast with no legs to stand on is a lesson in itself. You have to believe you are adding value in any relationship for all to feel a certain equality.
His vision and tenacity to follow through, seems to be a trait a lot of Entrepreneurs lack. This is a real How To Book, most will try to cafeteria style it, and do it there way, bit it will not work. From the moment I finished reading it,I started trying to build political contacts. I will be giving my first campaign donation this year. I never understood the importance of who you know, not what it is that you know, until I read The Peebles Principles. I would just like to congratulate Mr. Pebbles on his massive success.
It seems as if Mr. Peebles is unstoppable know, I just recently read that he is constructing the most expensive Minority Owned hotel in Las Vegas as we speak. This just gives the average person that does not have a Harvard Degree the confidence that you can do it if you want it bad enough. In closing I would recommend this book to anyone that has ever wanted to pursue a career as a Real Estate Investor. It gives you a different path to the promised land.
Darrick H Scruggs
Can this genius possibly have more fun?.......2007-08-01
Read this book. It will force you to completely rethink just how you can operate within the free-market business world. My once forgotten career dreams of yesteryear have been rediscovered and are now being fulfilled with a renewed vigor. Mr. Peebles has an astute business mind coupled with a tireless desire to succeed with his ethics intact.
Book Description
Now anyone can be an online millionaire! These days it's easier, cheaper, and safer than ever to start an Internet business using readily available technology and turnkey opportunities. In this strategy-packed guide, Scott Fox reveals the powerful but simple methods he and thousands of others have used to strike it rich on the Net. Exclusive interviews with "mom and pop" entrepreneurs prove how easy it is to get started and build a million-dollar enterprise. Readers get:
* a guide to e-business opportunities, including "instant e-businesses" that require no start-up capital * strategies for making money from home and turning hobbies into businesses * marketing and product tips * legal and financial advice * a list of recommended vendors * years of expertise and experience in one easy-to-use book
Internet Riches also features an action plan for brainstorming new business ideas, and exercises to help readers determine the best moves for their particular situations. Filled with practical pointers and inspiring interviews, it's the most powerful book ever on starting and enjoying a million-dollar online business!
Customer Reviews:
Just what I needed.......2007-09-21
Practical advises and ways to make it on the cyber commerce.
Dr. Israel King, Ph D, Author of How To Keep A Man
book millionair.......2007-09-12
brillant brillant i thought colgate was good but this author leaves a smile on my dial
The only book you need!.......2007-09-10
This book teaches that even if you are not the next Amazon, ebay, or Google, you can still make a million on the internet. You just need to find a niche that is underserved.
I purchased "Starting an Online Business for Dummies" and the reviews were mixed. In someone's reviews, they mentioned this book and said it was much better. They suggested buying this book instead of the Dummies book. I took the advice, and am glad I did!
The book is great because it helps you understand that you don't need to be a billion dollar business to start with. Even small, underserved niche markets can earn a million.
I highly recommend this book if you are considering an ebusiness. It is well worth the money. I have been talking about this book to many people who have asked to borrow the book. I keep telling them to pick up their own copy because I am still using it as a reference! It is a great book!
Good Starter.......2007-09-10
This should be the first book you pick up on your way to an internet millionairehood.
Kishore Dharmarajan
Author of EIGHTSTORM: 8-Step Brainstorming for Innovative Managers
Do no give your money to this Author.......2007-09-08
If you already know what a "blog" is and you're fully proficient in searching the internet with google or yahoo, you're probably too sophisticated for this book. Fox's target are people with very little education (He introduces us at one point to the fancy MBA word, "business plan"). Fox also uses the website he started for his wife and mother as case studies. I guess I should have known better. After all, it is called 'Internet Riches" and has a picture of some guy driving in a brand new convertible on the cover.
Average customer rating:
- The INDISPENSIBLE history of building a business from one store with zero sales to a $100 BILLION company.
- Home Depot provides a horrible experience
- I'm rich. I started a company. I wrote a book.
- Full of Lies
- A great story...
|
Built from Scratch: How a Couple of Regular Guys Grew The Home Depot from Nothing to $30 Billion
Bernie Marcus ,
Arthur Blank , and
Bob Andelman
Manufacturer: Crown Business
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0812930584
Release Date: 1999-04-27 |
Amazon.com
Built from Scratch is about two businessmen who achieve the American Dream by fundamentally changing the realm of home-improvement retailing. Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank, cofounders of the Home Depot, explain how they established the first national chain in the industry by concentrating on low prices, customer service, and strong leadership values.
Ultimately, this is a book about grit and determination. "Building the Home Depot was a tough, uphill battle from the day we started," they write. "No one believed we could do it and very few people trusted our judgment." The two cofounders launched the company only after they were fired by a California hardware retailer because of politics. The Home Depot lost $1 million in its first year of operation in Atlanta. Today it's one of the great successes on Wall Street, with more than 700 stores across the country and 160,000 employees.
One reason the book is so engaging is that it includes corporate anecdotes. A favorite: the company banned wild parties after several employees were demoted and a couple were fired in the wake of a drunken annual managers' meeting. Another yarn involves Sears, which made one of the worst financial mistakes in retailing history when it passed on a deal to purchase Home Depot in the early 1980s. The authors are self-serving at times; for example, they whine too much about paying $104.5 million to dispose of a sex-discrimination lawsuit. But there's no denying the smashing performance of Big Orange. Marcus and Blank paint a story with some sparkling advice for practically anyone in business. --Dan Ring
Book Description
One of the greatest entrepreneurial success stories of the past twenty years
When a friend told Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank that "you've just been hit in the ass by a golden horseshoe," they thought he was crazy. After all, both had just been fired. What the friend, Ken Langone, meant was that they now had the opportunity to create the kind of wide-open warehouse store that would help spark a consumer revolution through low prices, excellent customer service, and wide availability of products.
Built from Scratch is the story of how two incredibly determined and creative people--and their associates--built a business from nothing to 761 stores and $30 billion in sales in a mere twenty years.
Built from Scratch tells many colorful stories associated with The Home Depot's founding and meteoric rise; shows that a company can be a tough, growth-oriented competitor and still maintain a high sense of responsibility to the community; and provides great lessons useful to people in any business, from start-ups to the Fortune 500.
Great Stories
"Ming the Merciless": The inside account of the man who fired Arthur Blank and Bernie Marcus
"My people don't drive Cadillacs!" How Ross Perot almost got involved with The Home Depot
"Take this job and shove it!" The banker who put his career on the line to get The Home Depot the loan that enabled it to survive
"Folks, I tell ya, if these Atlanta stores were any bigger, we'd be paying Alabama sales tax." Home Depot's first good ol' southern advertising campaign
A Company with a Conscience
When disasters like the Oklahoma City bombing or Hurricane Andrew happen, Home Depot associates don't ask for permission to respond. They react from their hearts--whether that means keeping their store open all night or being on the scene with volunteers and relief supplies.
The Home Depot doesn't just contribute money to organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Christmas in April, but also provides its people to help lead and grow these community efforts.
Great Lessons
Know your customer: In The Home Depot's case, customers don't pay for wider aisles and a pretty store, but for a wide assortment and low prices
Why everyday low prices mean more sales overall: The marketing philosophy The Home Depot learned from talking with Sam Walton
Market leadership: Why The Home Depot never goes to a major new market with plans to open just a few stores
The strategy for profitable growth: How The Home Depot redefined its U.S. market from its $135 billion traditional "do-it-yourself" base to a much larger pond of $365 billion
How to change the rules of the game: How The Home Depot bypassed almost all middlemen, allowing it to pass on huge savings to customers
Built from Scratch is the firsthand account of how two regular guys created one of the greatest entrepreneurial successes of the last twenty years.
Opening the First Store
"What the hell happened? Who screwed up the store? . . . Whatever time remained before the doors were scheduled to open for the first time, we sped around in forklifts, stomping on the brakes, scuffing up the flooring so it would once more look like a warehouse."
Customer Service
"If ever I saw an associate point a customer toward what they needed three aisles over, I would threaten to bite their finger. I would say, 'Don't ever let me see you point. You take the customer by the hand, and you bring them right where they need to be and you help them.'"
Giving Back
"When The Home Depot went public we realized that we had the financial capacity and wherewithal to give back to the communities where we did business. There is a concept in Judaism called tzedaka, which means 'to give back.' It is considered a mitzvah, a good deed, to give to someone who doesn't have, and we believe strongly in giving back to the community."
Selling the Vision
"We had to be psychologists, lovers, romancers, and con artists to get vendors aboard. Our ability to paint a picture of how that would take place--lowest prices, widest selection, and great customer service--was what convinced skeptical manufacturers to sell merchandise to us during the early years."
The Importance of Values
"I have never had anybody work for me in retailing who didn't work for me out of love, as opposed to fear. We carried this approach into building The Home Depot. We care about each other and we care about the customer. The things that we do for customers inside and outside the stores demonstrate our commitment to them. And then when something happens within the company, we circle the wagons. We help each other."
Customer Reviews:
The INDISPENSIBLE history of building a business from one store with zero sales to a $100 BILLION company. .......2007-01-18
It never ceases to amaze me in what it takes to satisfy a reader. When I read a book like this, I am basically asking myself several questions. How on earth did these guys do it? How did they come through the funnel and get it done. What was at stake? What were the major premises of the concept? Could it have failed, if so how? How close did it come to failing? Could some one else have done this, or replicated it, or perhaps have done it better.
A lot of life is pure fantasy. You have your own template of how things works, and you look at the world and you see that template everywhere. If you go out and try to apply this system and superimpose it onto the real world, it either fails or it succeeds. Sometimes the template is a good one, but the execution gets screwed up.
When I look at Home Depot, a story that I have an intimacy with, I found this particular book to be fabulous. There is nothing boring about it; in fact I found every page worthwhile. Having spent 35 years in Wall Street running money, and figuring out how does a company make a buck, I found this book even more worthwhile. If you are involved in the investment business, this becomes a particularly worthwhile read.
If you run a company or have aspirations towards a career in management, you better read this book, because there is something in it for everyone. For most of us, there is more than one thing in it. Peter Drucker the ultimate management mind of the 20th century probably said it best when he talked about the corporation as a living, breathing organism that required nourishment on a daily basis. You just can't assume that corporations will continue to exist simply because they exist now.
Every day a company fights for its corporate life, for its right to continue to exist. Those corporate entities that assume that they will always be around - NEVER LAST. Other entities out there either eat them up, or they suffer the slow final death of arrogance, and go out of business without even knowing why they went out.
Home Depot is the story of two guys that got up in the morning every morning, fighting for the right to keep doing it a better way. They lived by the credo that you have to keep moving or they will throw dirt on you. Some of the lessons and ideas you will learn from this book include the following:
· CUSTOMER SERVICE - You have to take care of good people, and constantly be on the lookout for them. If necessary hire them, even when you don't have the jobs for them because you may not get a second shot at them.
· DOING THE RIGHT THING ALL THE TIME - It can cost you money doing the right thing, but it comes back in spades. Something else happens when you do the right thing. People realize your efforts, and some will take advantage of you, but that will be more than offset by the multitude of others who will become loyal customers for life.
· NOBODY LOVES A COMPANY- They may love what you do, and what you do for them as customers, but there is no real loyalty to companies, at least in this generation. Home Depot always tried to make as many of their employees stockholders as possible, so that they could align the employee (associates at HD) goals with the corporate goals.
· THIS IS A TOUGH PLACE TO WORK IF YOU ARE INFLEXIBLE - This lesson was lost on the current Chairman, CEO Nardelli who was fired by the Board for his IMPERIAL management style. He also possessed no understanding of the Home Depot culture as he tried to superimpose his General Electric template on the company. He failed miserably but that's another book.
· IF YOU CAN SAVE THE CUSTOMER MONEY, DO IT - Always do the right thing by the customer, and you will have a customer for life. Go the extra mile for the customer. CULTIVATE the customer.
· THE FOUNDERS WERE LIVING ON THE FUMES OF DREAMS - I loved these stories. These guys Marcus and Blank were honest about what they faced, and several times this company was touching or facing bankruptcy. This is an important lesson. The way around it is to have twice as much capital as you think you need. This by itself was worth reading the entire book. This is priceless knowledge.
· IT'S ABOUT PRICE, SELECTION, AND CUSTOMER SERVICE - Never lose sight of this statement and act on it in your own business goals. Give people the best price you can, and the finest selection of merchandise. If you back it up with the industry's best customer service you have found for yourself a business model for success. It may sound simple, but try executing on it.
So let me let you in on a secret. I spent years with Bear Stearns well over 20 years ago as a limited partner. When I read the early financial stories of Home Depot on Wall Street, I knew that what the founders in this book were saying was the complete unvarnished truth.
The story of how Ross Perot, one of America's wealthiest men in the early 1980's blew having dominant control of this company is now the stuff of myths. Nevertheless it's a true story. The founders ultimately turned down Ross Perot as a shareholder. They believe Perot to be a control freak. Yes, Perot didn't want the founders driving around in a Cadillac. Perot was a Chevy man. Well, the Chevy man blew a $60 billion dollar fortune by not investing a couple of million in Home Depot.
Then there's Ken Langone, the financial guy behind this phenomenal story. Langone may be the only guy in America to be the IPO maven behind two all time American success stories. He successfully brought public both Ross Perot's EDS, and the Home Depot. Who else can say that? He also made a billion dollars in the process. Langone is a unique, fabulous, walk to the well with you kind of guy. Among Wall Street types, he is unique, and the Street needs many more like him.
There is a story in the book where Langone is involved in a stock sale to a very nasty executive who is very prominent in his own right. Every time the executive refuses to give in to Langone's price, Langone just keeps upping the ante on him. This goes on for pages. It is uproariously funny, and is deserving of retelling over and over again. You will love this book, and learn an enormous amount about business in the process. It should probably be required reading for all MBA programs in management.
If you have any desire to understand what it takes to dedicate your entire life to building something, especially in the business world than this book is a read for you. There's one more thing that I must get across that is compelling. Having spent my life involved with companies like Home Depot, and high-powered successful people, I have come to the conclusion that it does not have to work out successfully.
There is no such thing as one must succeed, or it was ordained that this must happen. As an example Home Depot could have gone out of business a half dozen times before becoming so financially solvent that the business model had to work.
Steve Jobs at Apple could have decided 20 years ago, to license that Apple operating system to the PC industry, and Gates and Microsoft would never have happened. GM could have decided to build quality cars 25 years ago, instead of building [...]for decades while the Japanese took the market away.
Al Gore could have concentrated just a little bit more on Florida in 2000, and George W. Bush would have never been. John Kerry could have fought off the challenge of the Swift Boat accusations, and Ohio would have gone his way, and with it the election.
In the end, it's really a question of who comes through the funnel, and that is not always predictable. As I read this wonderful book, I came to the conclusion once again, that yes, you have to go for it, and dedicate all to getting there, but there is no certitude that you are going to make it. Just make sure you follow YOUR PASSION, because no matter where you wind up, a PASSION FILLED LIFE is a life WORTH LIVING. Good luck.
Richard Stoyeck
Home Depot provides a horrible experience.......2006-12-29
If you like wandering around with no service, ringing yourself out at the register, and watching a bunch of orange outfits ignore you, try Home Depot. The bigger the company gets, the more horrible the experience. Try True Hardware.
I'm rich. I started a company. I wrote a book........2004-08-24
What a laugh. Yes you!!! The average American with your wealthy silent investor in your pocket. You too can open a store.
Home Depot has spent a good deal of money trying to improve its image; including writing these books. HD has serious problems with women suing them.If you tell the customer that you are serving them well, and beat them over the head that they are receiving top notch lip service, then eventually some will believe it.
HD has spent millions improving their stores by widening ailses and better lighting. They claim to be industry leaders yet can't seem to shake Lowes from opening stores all around HD stores and even in HD's home Atlanta market.
They are very aggressive and drive their employees to bring shareholder value. They do offer products for less and have had great financial backing.
They also control costs by "Rifting" which means they fire people that start earning enough money that it becomes cheaper to train someone else.
Its one thing to write a book to laud yourself. Why not write about all the dirty tricks you pulled to get there.
Full of Lies.......2003-10-03
Let's face facts: home depot is known for abysmal service and really, really shoddy haphazard installations. They probably spend more on defending lawsuits than on store development. This book makes them look like such wizards, such brilliant and benevelont businessmen, when in fact they have done studies to see what the minimum level of customer service they can get away with is - and then tried to stretch that envelope.
I am sure Ken Lay could write books full of accolades to Enron. It would be just as true, and just as much a waste of time and money to read.
A great story..........2003-09-07
and very well told, which really makes this book a fast read (I had a hard time putting it down).
Provides, IMO, valuable information that will be useful for any business owner. I am glad these guys took the time to share their story, and I hope I get to meet them one day.
What a great way to spend a rainy weekend. You'll love it as it reads like a novel. And you'll never look at Home Depot the same way.
Customer Reviews:
Joe is AMAZING! .......2007-04-05
I have never been so impressed by a copywriter
like I have been with Joe. I saw him speak a long
time ago at a Mark Joyner event and bought this
book. I have had it by my side ever since.
I couldn't recommend it enough!
Matt Bacak
Author of Secrets of the Internet Millionaire Mind
and The Ultimate Lead Generation Plan
Buy this book.......2007-01-05
Of the dozens of books I have read on the subject this one is the only one that I feel was well worth the purchase price.
Ideas backed by facts not opinions.
Wow - tremendous book.......2007-01-03
I think it was about the second chapter, maybe earlier where he mentioned the 'magic stat thermostat'. Well, back when I was a kid in the early 80's (read like 10 years old), my dad used to get tons of mail order catalogs (like Hemmachler, sharper image, etc...), and liking technology at a young age, I used to look through them. Well, JS&A must have been one of them as well, as I specifically remembered this ad! I recalled the ad tearing the product to shreds before recommending it (I even remebered what the thing looked like). It was that substantantial, that as a 10 year old (roughly), I recalled it today. At the same time, I recalled another ad that I thought was odd - some handheld game that was supposed to be some big conspiracy. Sure enough, that was one of his ad examples at the end of the book.
This alone should be a testament to exactly how powerful his ads are. Not too mention, his writing style as an educator in the field of written ads is astounding - I could not put the book down.
Although geared toward catalog sales, the techniques clearly can apply to the web as well. So, if you are interested in selling anything - order this book now!
One of the best books on crafting mouthwatering copy ever written!.......2005-09-14
Joe Sugarman is a copywriting and marketing genius.
Probably known best for his "BluBlocker" sunglasses ads, Joe has provided aspiring (and experienced) copywriters with a treasure trove of useful information, tips and step-by-step techniques.
During the 80's Joe held annual Copywriting and marketing workshops and smart marketers willing paid thousands to learn his "secrets".
As far as I can tell, Joe has shared every last one of those million dollar secrets in this must have manual.
This one is a "no brainer". Buy it. Read it. Use it.
A Consumate Master of the Written Word.......2005-08-05
Notice the last two words in the title -- 'Written Word.' Writing something that is intended to be read is different than writing for television, radio, or anything else that is to be spoken. There are different techniques for the two approaches, and Mr. Sugarman is a consumate master of the written word.
The concentration in this book is intended to be mail order writing -- sometimes in letter form, sometimes in the form of a brochure. Mail order advertising has a lot of advantages over other types of writing. The biggest one is that you have an almost instant measure of its success -- how many responses do you get. Then you can change the mailing package - any part of it, the writing, the typeface, the color of the envelope - and again you get an immediate response. There's no room for BS. And the successful people have to be good.
Most of the orientation here is for direct response mail order. The interesting challenge of the next few years, or maybe the next few decades, is to convert this writing style to the web. At first glance, most of the techniques given here would seem to apply. Using them and taking into account the special characteristics of the web is going to be fun.
Book Description
The real secret to making money and reaching financial independence is not staying an employee, but starting a company and quickly developing it. This book is for aspiring entrepreneurs who need to know how to take those first crucial steps. In RICH DADS BEFORE YOU QUIT YOUR JOB, Robert T. Kiyosaki provides first-hand accounts of his own start-up companies, and what he learned from his failures and successes. Readers will discover: How to determine whether an idea is a good one How to write a solid business plan Where to find OPM (Other Peoples Money) to finance that plan How to incorporate for business and tax purposes How to find key advisors to develop the plan How to best launch the product or service And more. The Rich Dad experts explain everything readers need to successfully start their own businesses.
Customer Reviews:
Another great book by Robert T. Kiyosaki. .......2007-07-30
I found this more helpful than some of his other more recent books. It's not just a reiteration of his old information. It goes over some key points of his first book but hits on many things and mistakes he went through in his many businesses. He then applies the things he has learned and puts them in this book in ways which anyone can understand. There are some insightful tips from Sharon Lecter in here too.
A little too familiar.......2007-07-25
My cousin gave me this book on cd as a gift in preparation for my departure from the working world to full blown self employment. Despite what I thought were veiled messages from my cousin, I eagerly listened to this book. I'm not a big fan of books on cd because I have a hard time concentrating while just listening to them, but as soon as I put "Before You Quit Your Job" in I began thinking that I've read/heard this before. I've read Rich Dad, Poor Dad (and liked it) and I couldn't help but think that this book sounds an awful lot like it. I haven't really compared the "text" of the two since I've only listened to this book in the car, but I swear many, if not most, of the information and stories are repackaged from Rich Dad and possibly the other books in the series based on what others here have had to say about it. I don't feel as if I gained anything new from reading this book and I'm reluctant to read any of the others in the series after this. So, if you've never read any of the other books this might be worthwhile. If you have read the others, well, I don't know...this may be terribly redundant.
Good Book.......2007-07-02
This book provides a sound overview of the fundamental infrastructure that must be present for a business to be successful. As always, Mr Kiyosaki has done a good job explaining the basics of good business acumen in laymen's terms. He also explains some of the mistakes that he made during his career as a business owner to help readers understand some of the common pitfalls that can occur in running and building a business.
Great resource for small business owners!.......2007-05-09
This book was exactly what my small business needed. He lays out not only what is necessary to take it to the next level, but the potential pitfalls the authors have encountered. I'd highly recommend it for any small (or large) business owner.
A Must Read.......2007-04-01
Anyone who is serious about starting a business but have doubts should definitely read this book. Robert Kiyosaki walks you through the entire process of building a business from top to bottom. He gives you real life stories, successes and failures. I definitely recommend this book.
Book Description
Mary Kay may be the most successful woman entrepreneur in the world today, but she started her company as a single mother supporting three children—using her total life savings of $5,000. Following her priorities—God first, family second, and career third—and some sound, savvy business strategies, she managed to create a multibillion-dollar international company as well as a fulfilling life that reflects her values. Here she reveals to you how she did it, how thousands of other women have done it, and how you can do it, too!
Mary Kay accomplished all her goals without any special advantage—without trying to be a "superwoman." Instead, she rediscovered the timeless secrets of true success and happiness and applied them in her life. These are the secrets she now shares with you.
In Mary Kay: You Can Have It All, you will discover how to:
• Become more confident personally and professionally
• Deal with the male ego
• Plan your work and work your plan
• Do well by doing good
• And much, much more!
Mary Kay will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book to the Mary Kay Ash Center for Cancer Immunotherapy Research at St. Paul Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.
Mary Kay Ash is the founder and chairman emeritus of Mary Kay Cosmetics Inc., listed among Fortune magazine's Most Admired Corporations in America and boasting annual retail sales of more than $1.5 billion.
Also available in Paperback.
Customer Reviews:
self-endorsement.......2007-01-02
This book is all about how great Mary Kay thinks Mary Kay is. Though I was interested in learning more about the company (I even was a Mary Kay consultant for a little while), the self-proclamation factor proved too frustrating. I could not even finish the book!
A Very Inspirational Book.......2006-02-28
What a great book, a great lady, who had a great business philosophy. A must read for anyone who wants to do their own thing.
AWESOME AND POWERFUL.......2003-02-09
I AM A MARY KAY CONSULTANT.I WAS A DEVOTED CUSTOMER FIRST.ONCE I WAS ON HER CUTTING EDGE COSMETICS, I DECIDED TO OFFER THE OPPORTUNITY TO MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS. THIS BOOK GIVES YOU ALL OF THE TOOLS YOU NEED TO MAKE IT IN ANY BUSINESS. SHE GIVES YOU INSPIRATION AND MINDSET YOU NEED TO MAKE ALL OF YOUR DREAMS A REALITY. IF YOU BELIEVE IT, YOU CAN ACHIEVE IT. I AM DOING THAT RIGHT NOW.REDUCING MY DEBT, INCREASING MY SELF ESTEEM AND SELF WORTH.DEFINATELY A MUST READ
anonymous.......2001-08-16
Mary Kay Ash is truly an inspiration to all women. Not only does she succeed she lets you know that there will be obstacles to overcome, but you can and will succeed if you keep your priorities in order GOD,Family, and career and work hard. Nothing comes in life easy and through perservence and a dream and goal setting there is nothing you can't do. I LOVED IT!!!
Changed the way I think!.......2001-01-19
Thank you Mary Kay Ash for writing the words that I needed to read! Mary Kay's ideas may seem old fashioned to some, but I found them to be refreshing. It's nice to be reminded once in a while that God and Family should come before Career. This book is an inspiration to all women (not just those who like cosmetics and skin care) who want to be the best they can be at whatever it is that they do. The book will keep all women grounded!
Book Description
A bold manifesto by two business leaders, A Billion Bootstraps shows why microcredit is the world's most powerful poverty-fighting movement-and an unbeatable investment for your charitable donations.
A Billion Bootstraps unearths the roots of the microcredit revolution, revealing how the pioneering work of people such as Dr. Muhammad Yunus-winner of the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize-is giving hope to billions. Philanthropist and self-made millionaire Phil Smith and microcredit expert and consultant Eric Thurman provide a riveting narrative that explores how these small loans, arranged by “barefoot bankers,” enable impoverished people to start small businesses, support their families, and improve local economies. By paying back their loans instead of simply accepting handouts, men and women around the world are continually giving others the same opportunity to change their futures.
Smith and Thurman also examine why traditional charity programs, while providing short-term relief, often perpetuate the problems they are trying to alleviate, and how applying investment principles to philanthropy is the key to reversing poverty permanently.
A Billion Bootstraps explains how ordinary people can accelerate the microcredit movement by investing charitable donations in specific programs and then leveraging those contributions so the net cost to lift one person out of poverty is remarkably low. You'll discover how to get more for your money by donating with the mind-set of an investor and calculating measurable returns-returns that will change lives and societies forever.
Customer Reviews:
Its an overview of what microcredit is but not how to start one .......2007-09-19
This is a good book in explaining what microcredit is and how to get involved, but not how to run a microcredit organization.
I preferred Mohammed Yunus (the noble prize winner) autobiography to this book it gave a better summary of what it is and explains how microcredit can work in the rural and inner city US which a Billion Bootstraps doubts can happen. In Yunus' book he demonstrates how microcredit has worked programs in urban Chicago and rural Arkansas.
Excellent introduction to Microfinance.......2007-08-26
The book explains well the business model of microfinance, what works and what not. It provides a very good insight into this industry. The author has obviously broad experience.
Required Reading for Those Who Seek to End Poverty.......2007-05-27
A Billion Bootstraps is potentially a world changing book. It describes the most effective way to end poverty that I've ever heard about. I had heard about micro loans -- before but didn't know how it worked or how powerful it can truly be. Many misguided people believe that giving people things is the answer to poverty, and sadly, that is rarely the case. Intuitively many of us have also realized this but never had a better way, never had an answer. Here's the answer and it's told and explained in a straigt forward and compelling way. I particulary enjoyed the stories of the lives that have been changed by micro loans, truly inspiring. My hat is off to Phil Smith and Eric Thurman for the fine work they have done in spreading the good word about the creative business solution to poverty. This is creative problem solving at it's finest. For more about creative problem solving, see: Jack's Notebook: A business novel about creative problem solving
Powerfully motivating.......2007-04-16
The best way to attack poverty is through the use of sound economic principles. This book will inspire you to look at poverty, not as a hopeless problem, but as an opportunity to effect real change in the lives of individuals. By acting upon the lessons of this book, you can ignite the spark of personal industry in the lives of people who can then create lasting wealth for their families, communities, and countries; finally succeeding where "charity" had previously failed. Reading this book will show you how you truly can make a difference.
enlightening read.......2007-04-15
A Billion Bootstraps changed the way I view charitable giving. Now instead of "giving to a charity," I am "investing in changing lives." What's more, I've learned to look for and expect accountability from the organizations which receive my money. Microcredit, which once seemed an esoteric concept, is now accessible to those of us who don't have business or economics degrees, thanks to Philip Smith and Eric Thurman. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to intelligently invest in changing lives of the poorest of the poor.
Book Description
Infopreneurs sell valuable information online in the form of books, e-books, special reports, audio and video products, seminars, and other media. This definitive guide will show how to master the tools and tactics of the most successful infopreneurs, so you can succeed at producing, marketing, selling, and automating delivery of information products online. This guide comes complete with interviews of successful infopreneurs.
Customer Reviews:
Good If You Are Looking to Find Out About Book Publishers.......2007-10-24
I did not find this book very useful. I felt that she covered very basic information. Usually when I read these types of books I also enjoy the Case Studies / Testimonials. The interviews she used were not very interesting and the main takeaway I took from them were - setting up your own web business means that I can make money even while I sleep.
If you are interested in getting your book published, she does provide you with good resources on how to do so. However, if you are looking for exciting Website books - this probably isnt the right book for you.
Nadine - www.herstoknow.com
Overall Disappointing.......2007-09-26
Based on the other Amazon reviews, I purchased this book. After reading it, and being thoroughly disappointed, I realized, on second glance, that most of the reviews here are from other authors, who seemed to give it the thumbs up.
I expected this book to tackle more issues with regard to eBooks, in terms of generation and advertising, and the information contained in this book on this subject was scant, to say the least. Most of the book addresses methods for promoting printed books, which is misleading (in my eyes) and conflicts with the words "eBook" and "Information Products", which appear on the front cover. Many of the ideas presented for advertising - TV, radio, seminars, etc., are well outside the bounds of the average author. Lots of regurgitated concepts that we've seen hundreds of times before in other books.
There are basically only 1 or 2 small chapters that are relevant to eBooks, and there are major omissions in that regard - no description of ClickBank (the pre-eminent leader in eBook distribution) other than a quick reference, and only a one page discussion of PPC advertising, which has to be addressed more thoroughly in this type of book.
I did find a couple of useful tidbits and website references, but it certainly didn't justify the price of the book.
Complete Guide - Excellent resource.......2007-09-20
From Entrepreneur to Infopreneur is a wonderful resource for anyone who sees the value in creating a passive income source from their current area of expertise - either hobby or profession. If you don't understand or see the value in becoming an Infopreneur, then this book is definitely for you.
The book is well written, organized and full of valuable information. It offers an easy to understand, step-by-step guide for the entrepreneur to transform their business and become an information marketer.
It is very easy for the entrepreneur to under estimate the market potential for their knowledge. Stephanie does an excellent job of illustrating how to take the knowledge we have acquired and to package it into a valuable product that can generate income on a passive basis. The internet has made it possible - actually easy - for anyone to package and sell their knowledge worldwide.
While it is often referred to as passive income, Stephanie is quick to point out that creating an informational product is simply the first step. If you are not willing to actively market your product/idea then you will have wasted a lot of time and energy in creating it. The income might be passive but there is this huge need for very active marketing. But do not despair. All the steps and instructions for effective marketing are in the book.
The book is full of hints, helpful tips and resources. I had read less than 30 pages when I was given a suggestion that made me put the book down and implement it. There are literally hundreds of helpful website addresses in the book. In addition there are profiles of successful infopreneurs, explaining what they do and how they did it.
One other extremely valuable lesson that is hammered home throughout the book is the value of becoming a recognized expert in your field. There is nothing like publishing book(s), articles, special reports, etc, that will establish your credibility as an expert. This can dramatically increase your value and thus income from other sources.
The book has way too much information to absorb in just one reading. If you are serious about becoming an informational marketer, read it a couple of times and then use it as a handy reference. A great resource for those just starting out or the seasoned infopreneur.
Your launching pad to success!.......2007-09-12
I've been playing with information products as a new direction for my home business for a couple of years now. I've had three different e-books on the edge of completion ... stalled. I have two websites designed and ready to sell my info products ... with nothing to sell and no idea how to go any further. I happened across this book, bought it on impulse, and read it cover to cover in two nights. Eight days later I've sold over $1,200 in info products on one of my websites following the author's exceptional advice and instruction. The "Infopreneur Profiles" were fantastic. I checked out all of their sites/products and learned a lot. The "Directory of Resources" was phenomenal and well-used. Ms. Chandler's writing style is direct and instructional while being entertaining and even motivating at the same time. Not only did I get exactly what I needed to light my fire and guide me the rest of the way to ebook success - but this book opened my eyes to related concepts and new ideas I can't wait to follow up on. I'd love to meet the author - just to give her a hug! If you want to make money selling information products (online or otherwise) this book will be significant in helping you reach your goals. Ms. Chandler, I think your book is underpriced. I would have paid more and now that I've read it - I would have paid a lot more!
Inspirational.......2007-08-23
Good general information on breaking into the Info-Marketing arena.
Ms Chandler does a nice job of motivating and encouraging - especially if you've been sitting on the fence for a time, like I have.
For me, the best features were the list of various resources and the "real life" mini porfiles of Infopreneur's.
At the end of each chapter a short profile is included of people who are doing what I want to do - Inspirational!
Books:
- Logic and Computer Design Fundamentals, Third Edition
- Make Money Teaching Online: How to Land Your First Academic Job, Build Credibility, and Earn a Six-Figure Salary
- Make Money Teaching Online: How to Land Your First Academic Job, Build Credibility, and Earn a Six-Figure Salary
- Me to We: Finding Meaning in a Material World
- Methods, Standards, & Work Design
- Motor Control Electronics Handbook
- National Electrical Code 2005 Softcover Version (National Fire Protection Association National Electrical Code)
- Negotiating Your Salary: How To Make $1,000 A Minute 2006 Edition
- Photoshop CS / CS2 Wow! Book, The, 1/e (WOW!)
- Places Rated Almanac (Special Millennium Edition)
Books Index
Books Home
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- Terror Town: An Abe Lieberman Mystery
- Fundamentals of Financial Management: Concise Edition with Student CD-ROM
- Perspective for Interior Designers
- Henna's Secret History: The History Mystery and Folklore of Henna
Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time
How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas
The Difference a Day Makes: 365 Ways to Change Your World in Just 24 Hours
Banker to the Poor: Micro-Lending and the Battle Against World Poverty
Giving: How Each of Us Can Change the World
