Training Books

I'm enjoying this book even though I'm not at all interested in entering the profession. I just like getting gritty details of what it's like in a different and interesting way of life. Ms Bilderback gives us the good and the bad, with lots of detail and humor and honesty.

Leslie Bilderback is a Certified Master Baker and an instructor for the Le Cordon Bleu Schools of North America. In "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Success As A Chef" she draws upon her more than 20 years of experience and expertise to inform aspiring professional cooks and restaurant chefs as to what the job is like and what it details. Also included is practical advice about culinary schools, insightful tips on finding a mentor and establishing working relationships with co-workers, strategies for advanced career goals, and what must be considered when opening a restaurant. "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Success As A Chef" covers working in a range of settings from upscale hotels and specialty food shops, to gourmet takeout establishments and bakeries. Bildeback shows how to hone cooking skills in the kitchen, sanitation and safety issues, staff management issues, and the different culinary career paths that can be pursued by anyone seeking to establish themselves in the field of the professional restaurateur. Thoroughly 'user friendly', "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Success As A Chef" is a welcome and recommended addition to personal and community library Jobs/Careers reference collections.

If you're thinking of becoming of a professional chef, read this book first. It covers all the bases, from finding culinary schools to owning your own restaurant or other food-related business. All the advice is clear, direct, uncomplicated and not sugar-coated -- you'll actually get a sense of what it's like to become a professional chef. This book was written by someone who has obviously "been there, done that," and it is an invaluable tool to anyone contemplating a career in the food industry.

A very straight forward and complete book for those who are thinking they would like to become a chef or work in food services. Ms. Bilderback pulls no punches in explaining to the reader what it is like to pursue a career in food preparation and what it is like once you are fully trained. A very easy to read and humorous book that should be read by everyone thinking of exploring a new career for themselves. This is one of those "must have" books.

I looked at a lot of books before I ordered this one from Amazon, and I'm glad I did. The training exercises are great and exactly what I needed to complement my planned training. The exercises are well explained, interesting, and provocative. The only thing I'd add is that as an HR professional, I'd make some slight changes to one or two exercises to not focus on physical characteristics.

Worth the investment and a great source even if you're just looking for icebreakers for other types of training.

The "Conflict and Communication Activity Book" is an excellent resource for trainers and facilitators in any organization. I particularly liked how Withers and Lewis formatted the book, defining up front the purpose as well as the equipment, prep and time needed for each specific exercise. The clear instructions and helpful advice provided for each activity make them a breeze for any professional to use. Well done!! As I read through it the first time, I found myself book-marking several of the activities to make a point of trying in the near future. I long ago arrived at the conclusion that no organization will EVER stop dealing with conflict and communication issues. They're universal. Thanks for giving me thirty more creative exercises to include in my bag of tricks!!

I have bought many books with hundreds of business games. Unlike the rest of the books I have read, it goes beyond the games, it gives you not only the materials and explanation on how it works but tells you what you may say and the theory behind the game. It also has different options for putting your own agenda depending on the time you have available and give you external resources.

If you want something practical and useful, this is the one

I recommend this book to people using experiential exercises to teach. I used one of the exercises from this book in a workshop and the students both had fun and got the insights. I have read many of the exercises and plan to use them as I develop workshops that center around conflict. In any case, the exercises are well designed. You'll get the purpose of the exercise and what it's intended to teach, equipment needed (e.g. handout or flipchart), precise directions for the students, what to expect, and insights to share for group learning. The book errs on giving you more information that you probably need to carry out the exercise.

I am a Consultant charged with setting up a corporate university for a 100 person company. The workbook provided me with the structure of a university and things to think about in creating a university. I didn't use the CD yet, but did love the book!

If you are involved in setting up or work for a corporate university, run, don't walk to your nearest book seller and purchase this workbook. Long overdue, The Corporate University Workbook, written in plan, easy to understand English, walks the reader through eleven chapters packed with business oriented explanations, strategies, checklists, exercises, case studies and rationales for designing, building and maintaining a world class corporate university. Destined to become a classic in the field, The Corporate University Workbook should be required reading and within arms reach of anyone responsible for establishing or fine tuning their organization's corporate university.

Philip McGee, Ed.D., THRD, Clemson University

Kevin Wheeler makes it clear early on in his book that successful corporate universities must go beyond traditional training. Learning goes far beyond training, incorporating a wide range of informal learning processes and activities. This differentiates this book from much of what has been written in the past about corporate universities--focusing on mostly course-oriented training. Wheeler takes the reality of broad-based learning in organizations into account and provides a very detailed and practical guide for building a successful and flexbible corporate university. The book contains lots of templates and practical lists with questions and issues that must be addressed by someone building a corporate university. Each chapter begins with a review of an unsuccessful and a successful example of corporate universities, making it clear that success is by no means guaranteed. But the probability of success will no doubt be much higher for those who do their homework and not only read this book but complete the numerous exercises that Wheeler has carefully prepared to assist those ready to build a corporate university meant to transform an organization into a 21st century learning organization.

From strategic visioning through measuring success, this practical workbook provides tools, guidelines and even a dozen templates in the enclosed CD. Mr. Wheeler shares best practices, from years of experience and research. With the lead from product advances shrinking, human talent will become a major competitive differentiator. I highly recommend for anyone challenged to support your organization's success through talent development.

I gave this book to my daughter and she stated, "Book was a great help in preparation for tests - in Teaching "

An excellent guide to pass LAST ATS-W. I am not an educational major and I took the tests only once. This book has the right information you need to pass.

I cannot say enough about this prep book. I studied for one month prior to the test, and I only studied this book. I scored a 279 out of 300 (220 is passing).
Yes, I do have brains, but I feel that I owe most of my great score to the awesomeness of this book. I hate surprises - of just about any kind. This book tells you EXACTLY what you need to know, and shows you EXACTLY what you will see on the test. There are ABSOLUTELY no surprises on the day of the test! The prep test you take in the book will show you how to answer the questions. The L.A.S.T. isn't hard. It is tedious. Knowing what the questions are going to look like and how to maximize the 4 hours you have to take the test by ignoring erroneous (and time consuming) text is a big key to success. I do not recommend doing "outside studying" because if you are planning to be a teacher and have four years of college already, you will not have trouble passing. Don't make yourself crazy brushing up on all your old textbooks - it is a waste of time. Most of the questions have the answer embedded in them already. You just have to fish it out. This book teaches you how to do that. Buy it.

I used the Princeton Review test guide among a few others. These guys truly have the NYSTCE "nailed." It was accurate in its strategy recommendations, but more important, it represented the types of questions on the exam very accurately. This is the only guide you need or should use.

This book is a great place to start when creating or updating an employee orientation. The nice thing about it is you can use some or all of the information provided to suit your needs. It is organized well and is easy to find what you're looking for.

great service, excellent book

This is a compendium of almost everything that one might need to create or improve existing orientation programs. From best practices in orientation videos, small businesses, intern & buddy programs to case studies from companies like Ford and Alcatel.

The book also includes numerous useful lists, tools and aids that can be reproduced or used as a basic template for planning new orientation as well as evaluating and improving existent programs. In other words, this is a practical book filled with implementable ideas and suggestions guaranteed to make your new hires feel 'special' and at the same time, taking them through all the knowledge and information bits that they need to learn in a fun and engaging manner.

I found the case studies chapters very informative and particularly enjoyed Part 5 of the book: Orientation Games & Activities which includes 18 very useful and effective games like the hunt for company policies which turns a normally boring part of any orientation program into a really fun activity.

Also quite useful was the Part 6: Orientation Checklists & Surveys covering such areas as 'Before the Employee's First Day'; 'I'm New Here - What Should I Learn?'; and 'A 90-day New Employee Survey'.

I have often been asked how new employee orientation programs can be both lively and informative. I have recommended Doris Sim's terrific book to several people. Routinely, I am thanked for passing along this title. It has helped many companies.

Having been a trainer for over 20 years, I always add to my resource library with the hope of "something really new". I can honestly say that I found it! This book is loaded with value. It has so much information that at first glance, its large size was a bit intimidating, but the writer's comfortable tone makes it easy to read and the content made it well worth it. It is comprehensive and covers everything a new or experienced facilitator could want to know about the mechanics of training and it provides numerous ideas for exercises (something you normally have to buy in a separate book). As an experienced trainer, I was able to find many tips and pearls that will help me be better. Love this book so much I have given it to several people starting out in the field of training, and even to a veteran. Don't let the size intimidate you - simply read the sections you need if you can go through it cover to cover - it's definitely worth adding to your training library.

Lucas does indeed give lots of creative ideas on how to be a more effective trainer by engaging trainees in more imaginative ways. There are tips here you won't see in other manuals.

Despite the prevalance of e-learning, the classroom remains the preferred training platform, both by students and trainers. Most classroom experiences would benefit immeasureably through the well-researched, practical techniques in the Creative Training Idea Book.

Beginning with the right foundation - how the adult brain learns - the book offers hundreds of ideas most trainers learn only through long trial and error (if at all). As the author discussed bread and butter subjects such as the multiple ways the classroom can be set up, how to use flipcharts effectively, how to tell stories, ideas for class evaluations or the best questioning techniques, I found myself agreeing with nearly every suggestion.

This book would have helped me become a seasoned presenter much earlier in my career. And although I'm now a seasoned facilitator with thousands of presentations under my belt, I still picked up some new ideas. Highly recommended for all stand-up trainers and presenters committed to delivering boredom-free, professional sessions.

I just read this book and all I can say is WOW! I got so many ideas for setting up classrooms that will enhance my training, engaging participants, stimulating learning and delivering training in a way that is effective and FUN, that I am not sure which strategy I want to use first. This book has terrific information and ideas for generating learner enthusiasm, rewarding participants, gaining learner involvement and rewarding positive behavior. The author really sets the tone for the entire boiok in the first chapter where he discusses research on brain-based learning, multiple intelligences, adult learning principles and much more. Throughout the book, he's also provided something he calls "bright ideas" and "Interim Reviews" for applying the information provided.
This is going to be a book I reference often and would encourage anyone involved in T&D to own.

This book is like sooo good. I love it!! It rox. I mean who knew that medical stuff was soo interesting. I,mean, i like ER and all and this book really put that into perspective for me. READ IT! I LIKE LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!

This book was spectacular! I learned so much! I had to read a book on "Critical Care" and chose this one. It was an excellent choice; i got an A+ and now my teacher and her husband are both reading this informative book! Good job DAD!!!:)

As a fourth year medical student, I found this book to be a great reference during my ICU rotations. That being said, this book should not replace "The ICU book" as a standard operating manual. This book contains much more Information than the ICU book, but is better left for reading at night after you have finished your day.
For example, the Chapter on Mechanical Ventilation, is a terrific, very thorough explanation of Vents and vent management, but is very detailed. A little more detailed than a medical student needs. This book will serve me very well during residency.
This along with "The ICU book" are must haves for your Critical Care library.

This text was designed to be a review manual for the critical care boards. It does an overall excellent job and succeeds in its mission superbly. It should be noted that this text does not replace standard texts of critical care medicine but can easily act as an additional supplement to them.
It may be a little too advanced for medical students but I will highly recommend it for my interns and seniors doing their critical care rotations. It can easily be read during the month rotation and brings out the essential key points that they should be learning.

Mr. Gennaro has a proven brilliance for developing exercise regimens, systems and products that have historically delivered to millions of satisfied customers. When I stumbled upon his book recently, I happily but not surprisingly discovered how much his knowledge has evolved. In this book, you will be able to custom-tailor a simple routine that will both compliment and integrate into your busy lifestyle. It is today's definitive exercise guide for busy over-scheduled people. If you really want to maintain your good health and handle the rigors of a stressful life, buy this book. Look at it as an easy-to-follow guide that you can stick with. I can't think of a better holiday gift which is why I have purchased a quantiy for my friends that I really care about.

Mine is 44yrs old and 25lbs overweight. I have been trying to get him into a gym since his last "alarming" physical. I read the Cuts Fitness Book first, so I was prepared for all of the excuses I was about to hear. I also read some of the book to him, the 30minute circuit training concept seemed to strike his interest. I left it on the table and walked away. Well, he read the entire book and said "even I can do this" he then agreed to contact the Cuts gym in our area to use the free 15day trial membership coupon in the back of the book, he loves it.
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!

Got it on Sat May 5, 2007. Was done by bedtime of the 6th. Has surprising information about how the human body (especially us 40+ guys) can be re-conditioned in a short span of time and for only 30 minutes each day. I really appreciated how the writer came down to our level. Let's face it guys, we can be like cave-men when it comes to taking care of ourselves. I think it's a book we all need. If you have a CUTS gym nearby, I recommend working out there. It's 30 minutes and out! If you don't have one nearby, do the home workout. And take to heart the nutritional info. Good Stuff! Thanks Mr. Genarro!

I enjoyed the book. It was an easy quick read. It has plenty of pictures, testimonials and good common sense tips and information. In the book you will learn about foods you should eat and foods you should "Cut Out" as well as exercises for the road and home. Best of all, you can follow the "Body Cuts Program" on a shoe string budget. You will get your body into shape, build your muscles and strengthen your heart and lungs. I plan on following the program. I have already started and you should too.

I was attracted by "David Leadbetter". This book illustrates many simple but useful exercises for golfers/beginners. It comes with sufficient 4-color photos to illustrate, more easier to understand. Highly recommend to golfers who want to improve their games consistently and accurately.

I bought my clubs on June 6, 1998, and the book a week later. I had never played golf prior to buying the clubs. I have practiced the methods David showed in the book and average a score in the high 90's. The book is very easy to understand, and the pictures show you the exact form and motions required. If you are trying to learn golf, this is an excellent purchase.

(July 29, 1998)

I really love this book. A lot of pictures and motion sequences. I hvae read "Faults and Fixes" which is written by the same author. If you want to read this, buy together.

Most golfers want to improve, but don't know how and/or don't want to put in the effort with positive practice.

This is where this book comes in. It goes over basics of swing and then shows how one can track and practice those aspects of the game that are losing you shots.

Diagnostics are similar to John Jacobs' "Golf Doctor" who influenced Leadbetter much.

Here though in the book are really good drills and practice tips that will help the beginner through intermediate. The more advanced player is usually a good practicer already or doesn't need it.

An excellent resource for everyday, difficult situations. Jeff provides realistic and effective advice for turning challenges into opportunities. His enthusiasm and love of the new home sales industry is contagious! This book should be required reading for anyone in new home sales!

This book is a MUST for those in new home sales! Practical advice, great suggestions, and it is very easy reading for a busy professional!

This book is a fabulous tool for both new home sales professionals and sales managers. It is concise, relevant and useful. How refreshing to have real help laid out in an entertaining and applicable way without clutter or ego... this is great for leading sales meetings, or for self help. BUY TWO - one for you, one to share.

I have been in new home sales for nearly two decades, this is the book for today's market. No tricks, no preaching, just concise advise that will help you reach the top.