Careers Books

an adorable gift for father's day.we read the book together and it's something that we would cherish in the years to come as our son grows up.

A must read on every fathers day and a must read for every father.

I read this book to my little sister every night and we both were very fascinated by the sweet story. The book is very nice and lovely. I recommend this book to everyone who loves his children and wants to read it to them.

I read this book to my little brother and he really enjoyed it! It's lovely and very sweet!

If you have little siblings you must read it to them!

We are big turtle fans. This book has very nice pictures of turtles. They are so lovely. I have a collection of different kinds of turtles and this book fits perfectly to it. We love this book. Buy and read it!

As a kindergarten teacher I've already used this lovely book as the basis for working with children. The 3- to 6-year-olds love looking at the illustrations and having the story read out to them. We talked about their parents' jobs and their own dream jobs. We also talked about the kids' favorite pets. Then the children drew pictures based on that. We even organised a little exhibition of those drawings in our kindergarten. "When I Grow Up ..." is a really nice book!

Jim Hayhurst has identified and hit the motherlode of true career fit. Using memory and reflection as his tools of excavation he has illuminated the process by which any person can finally uncover/discover his or her own unique pattern of personal excellence and expression and then apply their knowledge to the discovery of the kinds of work that best engages that personal pattern. The satisfaction and elation that follows this congruence between one's work duties and the real life engagement of one's natural pattern is very real. Jim Hayhurst has made a vitally significant contribution to all of us who wonder about our place in the world of work.

Jim's book has helped me look at things so differently. He is a wonderful author, presentor and this is his best book so far.

Marti Smye

After reading Jim Hayhurst Sr.'s first book, "The Right Mountain," I was eager to read his second book, "Where Have I Gone Right?"
This latest book is an insightful, and well thought out book. It is an easy read, and yet delivers strong, and important messages along the way. It has a structure that allows one to first learn about themselves, and then apply this new understanding to any aspect of ones life.
A great read for anyone.

I read Where Have I Gone Right? this weekend. It is simple, direct, positive and easy to read. Frankly, after
spending time working through Bolles's What Colour is Your Parachute?, I wish I had met this book first. Where Have I Gone Right? asks the essential question and demands the critical work be done first - determining who am I? Without actually having done the "gone right" process (I intend to do so)this work gets to point more effectively and adds important dimensions and communication strategies such as reference points and personal allegories -that separate and enhance what Bolles and others have done for job and life seekers. In a very few hours this book gave me the understanding and the positive tools to get accomplishments, skills, values, relationships into synch-- and to help tell my story in a more distinctive and powerful way.

If word of mouth can be a tipping point for a new career and
life change manual-- Where Have I Gone Right? has my word and I will spread it to anyone who needs or wants to hear.

I picked up this book in the midst of my career search, and I am very glad I did. After completing the book, which was an easy read but contained meaningful lessons, I realized I needed to first take stock of myself. The book, "Where Have I Gone Right?" is a must read for anyone who is frustrated, confused, or on the edge of insanity during their job search. It is not an easy process, but with the help of this book you will start applying to the jobs that you are interested and passionate about. I highly reccomend this book at any point in a persons life, the lessons drawn out of its excercises are relevant to anybody, at any point in their lives

I bought this book for my daughter who was having problems with a Bully Boss. I thought this book would give her some ideas an how to deal with a very stressful environment. She eventually transfered out of the department to another position and also got a raise. She is much happier now. I recommend this book to anyone who has to work under a Big Bad Boss.

I have recently received this book and am in the process of reviewing it. From what I have read thus far, it is very practical especially with my current job. I plan to share it with others.

This book is a godsend for people who have been targeted for workplace abuse by a bully boss. Whether you are just beginning to put a name to the nightmare you've been experiencing, or a little further in your recovery process and trying to figure out how to interview for a new job so you don't end up with a bully boss again, this gives real, practical help and valuable information.

I bought this book because it was recommended via the Washington Post. This book has been invaluable to me, especially in finding a new position in the IT industry. Ms. Haight gives you warning bells when you hear certain phrases coming out of a hiring managers mouth, and what questions to ask to be positive this person isn't going to be a devil of a manager for you. Buy this book because otherwise you might be going into (pun intended) a hell of a job!

Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (8/06)

Have you ever had one of those bosses, one where you wonder where they came from or how they got where they are? We all have at one time or another. Well, here's a great book about how to recognize what they are and how to deal with or survive them. Ms. Haight describes 13 different types of poor boss, the characteristics of each, and some good strategies for the employees. As a retired Chief of Police, it was part of my job to ensure a great working environment, one where employees could grow and flourish. We succeeded, largely in part to the employees themselves and what they had and did contribute.

While it is unfortunate such a book needs to be written, Ms. Haight has done a remarkable job with her research and details. She gives her readers the insight to recognize which is which, then the alternatives available to them. The people who ought to read this book first are the bosses described in it. Failing that, it is a clear, articulate read, certainly to be read by virtually every employee.

Well done Ms. Haight.

Do you feel as if your career is stuck under a rock and your salary is buried six feet under? You're not alone. Many women suffer from the grateful-to-have-a-job syndrome and earn far less than they need or want. With a mix of colorful commentary and hard facts, Mikelann R. Valterra presents a thoughtful discussion about the gender gap in wages. While avoiding clichés or easy explanations, she analyzes the remuneration problems women face and provides practical solutions. The book is a bit flawed by repetition. Key statistics, for example, are frequently recycled. But the author addresses crucial issues that have been hidden. We see this as essential fiscal homework for female execs, the pink-collar office pool and the self-employed.

This book is wonderful and a must have for any woman that works outside of the home or runs her own business. Mikelann gives very thoughtful and insightful stories to help the reader understand the concepts. It is very easy to understand. This book makes you take a deep look at yourself and how you might be sabotaging your own earning power. I have used the book and already gotten a 10% higher salary with a new job offer.

First heard this talked about on the radio. I only caught the last few minutes-- but had to call the radio station to find out it's name. This is a book every woman should read. It will give you the shaking that your mother should have. I bought a copy for my daughter and another for my neice. It is one of those books that you read-- then put down, and recover for a while-- then read some more. I will make sure every woman I know hears about it then reads it!

I must admit when I came to the chapter about Noble Poverty I thought... "Well that's soooo not me! I don't see money in a negative way. As a matter of fact, I like it quite a lot." But then Mikelann went through the different types of Noble Poverty and I started to register how I emotionally relate to my personal worth in financial terms. Such as over extending my volunteer projects, under bidding projects, or even giving away free service to be seen as "nice." How I would accept the "thank you" over a competitive rate. **Note, thank you should be said but not in place of paying your bills.**

Mikelann gives a clear, balanced, and usable plan to rethink and retool your financial wellbeing. I highly recommend this book for those looking for emotional connection or need a usable workbook (yes it's a workbook too!) to take full control of their worth.

I inadvertently came across Mikelann's site while surfing the internet. She used a term "underearning" which I had never seen before. When I read the description, I thought she had a pipeline into my life, and wanted to break the cycle I was in.

When I heard that she was publishing this book, I couldn't wait to read it. In each chapter, she dispels the myths, pulls you out of "The Money Fog" and gives action steps to break the insidiousness of underearning.

I refer to her book every day. It is an absolute good fit whether you decide to use the steps in the book, go on to professional consultation (financial as well as psychological - and she gives helpful hints to work with those professionals) or with groups such as Debtors Anonymous.

If you want to turn your relationship with money around, this is the book to get!!!

Finally, a career book that focuses on "play your own game" rather than trying to outsmart your competition. According to Dr. Barro's Right Fit Method, there is no external competition. The only person you will compete with is yourself.
Barro explains her method in an engaging, compassionate, and entertaining style. She entwines real people telling their own personal stories, coupled with her own anecdotes and interactive materials to convey her step-by-step system.
I loved her style. It's hard to believe that a career book could be a page turner but that's an apt description of WIN Without Competing! which is a one of a kind in its genre. I highly recommend this book for employees and entrepreneurs who are searching for new solutions at any stage in their lives. It's always the right time to learn how to "win without competing" to succeed in your professional and personal life.

WIN WITHOUT COMPETING offers sound career management advice for MBAs as well as others seeking to take a more thoughtful and holistic approach. It flows methodically, yet Dr. Barro's stories and humor enable the reader to embrace the principles contained therein. The text and principles are interspersed with exercises similar to many of the things found in career services. The focus is on differentiating yourself sufficiently so that you find the "Right-Fit" rather than engaging in endless competitive job searches.

Dr. Barro's book, released in 2007, examines career management from a whole-life perspective combining a methodical approach within a holistic framework. After an overview of the "Right-Fit" way, she begins with the importance of self-assessment, then branding yourself in order to present the "fit" to potential employers.

The tone of the book is substantive, yet light-hearted with stories and humor to illustrate what could be dry formulaic concepts. The book views her take on career management (and life) as a drama in Four Acts:

Act I Setting the Stage
Act II How the Right-Fit Method Works
Act III Apply the Right-Fit Method
Act IV The Right-Fit Method and You.

The heart of the book is Act II. It begins with self-analysis to discern your "Core Identity," in terms of:

Focus: Profession (One Profession; Concurrent Different Professions; New Profession)
Function: Setting & Situation (Status; Role; Industry)
Foundation: Passion (Fleeting or Sustained)

As the analysis continues, the reader develops a blueprint for approaching prospective employers and positions, providing a framework for goal setting. Using marketing analogies, Dr. Barro develops the concept of personal branding in terms of marketable transferable skills from the resume building stage through the interview and negotiating process.

Dr. Barro's reinforcement of the career management process as a two-way street (you want to make sure the employer is right for you just as much as the employer makes sure that you are right for them) is something that needs to be reinforced. Finding the right job is more than just compensation. The book combines general ideas and concepts with concrete and specific suggestions, including: what to bring or not to bring to the interview, how to dress or present yourself, and the importance of the first impression with everyone in the company that you meet.

Later chapters deal with strategies for fixing what's broken, and moving on when required. Finally, the book concludes with the application of her methodology to other areas of life.

It is certainly a book that I would recommend to someone serious about their career management.

Dr. Barro's book will help anyone-hiring or looking to be hired-find the right fit. She really goes step-by-step to lead you to success. Her book helped me to really understand who I am in my career and how I can use my skills to improve myself in my current job! She teaches you to ask some hard questions about who you are (and who you want to hire), but ultimately all that hard work pays off in a very rewarding career! Her book is a 'must have' for any career minded individual.

I've read more than a few of these in my day and I must say that Dr. Barro's book is one of the very best. Lucid, no-nonsense advice that will help you with your career--and your life.
Bill Gubbins

It's a dog-eat-dog world. Only the fittest deserve to survive. And you can indeed win through intimidation.

If anyone could be expected to attest to the above, it would be a corporate headhunter--which brings us to a new book with the unexpected title of "Win Without Competing" by Arlene Barro, Ph.D, a prominent search consultant, career coach, and educational psychologist. At first glance, the book would appear to belong in the "Warm and Fuzzy Self-Help Section" of your friendly neighborhood mega-bookstore. Well, Barro does convey warmth, but there's nothing fuzzy about her. She possesses the mien of a caring but uncompromising commander sending her clients into battle.

She minces no words about the sometimes cutthroat nature of the job market; she'd be the first to warn of snakes in the tall grass. There are no mantras here, no clicking of ruby slipper heels--only solid strategy peppered with no-nonsense aphorisms.

But, as implied by its title, the book is built on a fundamental paradigm shift. Barro's stated mission is to steer her readers to what she terms the "flawless fit"--the job and career for which one is uniquely suited. And when this concept is broken down to a molecular level of specificity, when a perfect DNA match is attained between the job-seeker and the job, it can be concluded with an almost scientific degree of accuracy that there is no real competition involved. The match by definition is symmetrical--not only must the individual fit the requirements of the job, but the job must fit the requirements of the individual.

To know where to look for your own flawless fit, you need to know precisely what it means for you. Thus, attaining a clear-sighted understanding of your core self is the first step on the journey. This quest for self-knowledge is nothing new--witness the teachings of Lao-Tzu, the meditations of Marcus Aurelius, the writings of Thoreau. Barro stands squarely in this timeless tradition, but presents it from a modern, practical perspective. Included throughout "Win Without Competing" are revealing checklists and personal surveys she's developed in her years of coaching clients.

One possible outcome of this personal assessment is the realization that you're not meant to be an employee at all--some of us, by nature, are entrepreneurs. Barro convincingly demonstrates that the principle of flawless fit also applies flawlessly in such instances.

Key to the strategic aspects of job search or entrepreneurship is what Barro calls "managing the process." She presents a detailed discussion of how to take charge and avoid succumbing to the obstacles and turbulence you're bound to encounter on the road to success, covering such matters as email communications, resumes, initial discussions and final negotiations--even what kind socks not to wear to an interview (a true-life cautionary tale shows how such a seemingly minor detail can determine the difference between getting the job and not).

Then Barro goes a step further and reveals a surprising reality: in many instances, the hiring company itself is unclear about what it's looking for. This presents an additional opportunity for the job-seeker to manage the process by presenting the prospective employer with options which could be to their mutual advantage. Here, as in its other sections, the book abounds with invaluable nuts and bolts advice.

The final chapter extends the discussion of flawless fit to encompass personal relationships and life in general. But for the attentive reader, the entire book serves as a road map for finding one's place in the world. "Win Without Competing" is a tangible example of its own title. It's bound to be a flawless fit for anyone committed to meaningful personal success.

This book lives up to all its good reviews. Guarantee yourself a better grade by using it. It is exactly what it says, a "Study Guide". Although you may pass the exam with just this book, I recommend learning the material in a lengthier manner. Either take the instructor-led courses or buy the Microsoft training kits (I bought the kits), and then read this book just before you take the exam, using it as a "Study Guide". I passed the exam by a wide margin on my first attempt.

This is a great book. I passed my Workstation test with no problems. This was not my only resource. I do like this book better than Exam Cram because it did not have a lot of filler. It was concise. Most technical authors have problems getting to the point. This book was easy to study with.

well-written, well-edited and seemingly free from the typos and horrible grammar that plague most of the other mcse material i've seen. great writing style, very easy to read, and to-the-point (i love how it concentrates on what you need to know to pass the exam).

workstation was my first exam, and i aced it. this book was one of the main reasons. i'd recommend it to anyone trying to self study for their mcse. however, i still recommend getting a few other manuals if you're going to self study. no one manual emphasizes everything evenly, and even the poorly written ones will cover things that others won't. nevertheless, don't neglect this book. it's one of the best out there.

There is only one way to say this: This book was awesome!!! The authors target what you should know and what to watch for on the exam. The book places all its emphasis on what you need and should know, not only to pass the exam, but to administer the operating system sucessfully and with ease. I am recommending this book to my friends and colleagues. Simply stated, Accelerated MCSE study Guides are your one stop shop for success. Don't get lost in all the fancy wording the other books hit you with, read something you can read! Trust me, once you pick it up, you won't want to put it down. Once I read this book, everything made sense. I can assure you that you will never have to purchase any other books on MCSE subjects for use as test preperation guides. Real world experience and this book made it possible for me to Ace the exam.

I purchased this book solely for the ratings obtained from other readers and because I wanted a quick MCP. I must warn you: For my Networking Essentials test I used two study guides, each with sample questions at the end of each chapter and final sample tests to prepare for the real test. This method helped me pass on my first attempt with 900. For this test I tried taking the short path of cramming this study guide with all the information required to pass the test and it didn't work for me, period. I passed the test with 866 on my second attempt (the first was a 633, passing was 700), and I only passed because I reinforced in 3 days my weak spots using a borrowed Exam Prep study guide (which, by the way I found out later it had terrible reviews). It doesn't mean that this book is not worth it, on the contrary, this book is worth more than its price, but it is only a review book, you can not expect to obtain all the necessary tools for the real test with it (or any guide of this type)only. This book should be a supplement to a formal study guide or NT Administrator's book and you need to test yourself using one of those CD practice tests (like the Exam Prep or Sybex's).

Excellent areas of this book: Test taking hints (specially for scenario questions), sources of information for the test, the "cram card at the end of the book", share and NTFS permissions (excellent), policies and profiles.

Acceptable chapters: Troubleshooting, Users

Weak chapters: Installation (the test requires more detailed knowledge here), Hardware configuration, RAS (the information was there but in an disorganized fashion, I got confused), Netware, It doesn't tell you which objectives are being covered (you don't know where to read to reinforce knowledge on a particular objective area)

To all candidates: Being an MCP requires experience, total mastery of the Microsoft test objectives, a detailed study guide, practice tests and a review (cram) guide. This book is an excellent review (cram) guide only. Out of the possible five stars, one star was taken for claiming to be the only tool for passing (read the back cover of the book section here in Amazon), the other for the weak areas for the real test.

This book was by far the best book I've read in the past ten years. I read a lot of books and some make a difference in my life and some don't. No other book has had as much impact on my life as WINNING HABITS. It reminded me to get back to some very basic principles I thought I had outgrown, and taught me a few new secrets as well.
In WINNING HABITS Dick Lyles reminds us that there are certain behaviors we should never outgrow and that by making them a permanent part of who we are, we can virtually guarantee success even in the most trying of times. I highly recommend this book to anyone of any age, but I especially recommend it as a graduation gift. It may prove to have more compounded value over the years than any other gift you can give. You'll be giving the gift of timeless wisdom.

Although this book is categorized in the business sections of bookstores, I found it extremely valuable as a junior high school teacher. Teachers must interact with all kinds of people. As I continue to deveop relationships with parents, faculty and students, I will now be able to use this worthwhile advice and continue to develop winning habits! This book was fun, easy to read and easy to understand! Now, after identifying with Albert and Jennifer, I can apply their lessons to my own life!

Winning Habits wraps the 4 habits it talks about in a parable. The good news is the parable is easy to follow and helps to gets the habits across. Better yet the author provides suggestions in the parable for introducing these habits into you daily routie so they stick and take root.

Here are the 4 winning habits. They seem to be very common sense, but in reality how many really do these things on a regular basis with discipline?

1. Be first on, last off and add extra value

2. Never trade results for excuses

3. Solve problems in advance (good problem solving approach in this section)

4. Always make those around you look good.

There are some really good templates that are highly leveragible from this book. In fact the templates are really the value of the book, since they are tools to allow you use the template to reach life change. The problem solving template in the Solve problems in advance section is excellent and the format for recording what was done well and what could be improved makes a lot of sense.

It never ceases to amaze me how the best teachers and philosophers can take a tremendous amount of wisdom and distill it into a compact sentence or two so it is easily remembered. In "Winning Habits" author Dick Lyles has done an excellent job of doing exactly that. A whole philosophy of life is distilled down into just four sentences which, when they become habits, will propel you forward in life no matter what your goals.

The book doesn't read like a typical self-help book but like a fictional work. The reader sees life through the eyes of Albert and Jennifer as she gets regular promotions at work and he is left wondering why he does not. Albert works hard and does his job well but he keeps getting passed over for promotions. His emotional despair over the situation leads him on a search for answers. The end result is a journey into discovering how to be a success at anything you want in life. Through the storyline Mr. Lyles clearly shows the reader not only the secrets to success but also exactly how to use them to change your life. No complex philosophy or convoluted ideas here, just plain simple truths of life. "Winning Habits: 4 Secrets that Will Change the Rest of Your Life" is a highly recommended read.

This amazing self help book seems to answer Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson and Kenneth H. Blanchard being Dr. Covey of Seven Habits fame. Dick Lyles uses fictional characters to bring across his messages that will remind readers of a cross between the two books above. The characters Albert and Jennifer make it much simpler for readers to follow, apply and adhere to Mr. Lyles four not so secret guidelines through their trials and tribulations that will enable the user to improve his or her group dynamics. The secret foursome is obvious yet often ignored whether it is on the job, with family, or with a social religious group. Mr. Lyles suggests the "winning habits" that successful people foster are

- "Be first on, last off, and add extra value" - If you fail to add worth why does the group need you. My spouse always talks about negative man-hours and vampire employees sucking the energy and time of teammates. Don't be one.
- "Never trade results for excuses" - Don't rationalize failure, go out and get the job done.
- "Solve problems in advance" - Be active not reactive.
- "Always make those around you look good" - People will want you on their team if you help make the group look good and not just hog the glory.

WINNING HABITS: 4 SECRETS THAT WILL CHANGE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE is fun to read due to the parable writings that are easy to use in business, in the community and at home. Now if I can find myself a team, I can double my review production.

Harriet Klausner

I bought this book after subscribing and enjoying Dawna Stone's magazine "Her Sports and Fitness". After reading her book about how she found her passion and how she achieved her success, I have even more respect for her. This book describes what the top tier of people do that gets them there; and its not about being bossy or sneaky or thinking only about yourself--its about making the extra effort and surrounding yourself with postive people and retaining your ethics. The part that stuck home was how she described three phases to careers and how non-traditional careers are; no longer do we climb a straight path up a ladder with one business anymore.

If you're looking for a behind-the-scenes tell-all about Dawna Stone's experience on Martha Stewart's "Apprentice," you're going to disappointed. And that's a good thing, too, since Stone opts instead to offer some timeless advice about how to manage people and succeed in business without being the type of ruthless, win-at-all-costs person that's right out of reality TV central casting. Stone is at her best when she's talking about the challenges of her start-up magazine, the four-year-old Her Sports + Fitness, and I would have liked to have read more about that unlikely success story. She relies perhaps a little too much from familiar quotes and anecdotes from the likes of Ken Blanchard, Jim Collins, etc., and that's a shame since clearly she has plenty of her own material. It's tough at times to keep track of all of the many jobs she's had in less than two decades. Clearly this is an author who is always on the move up. Perhaps her next book will have more first-person material --and we triathletes wouldn't mind a little more insight into how Stone, an Ironman finisher, has used the sport to fuel her business success. Still, whether you're someone out of college trying to navigate the corporate world, a thirtysomething getting your first taste of management, or a first-time entrepreneur ready to take the plunge, you'll find this book invaluable.

Recently I completed reading the "Winning Nice: How to Succeed in Business and Life Without Waging War" by Dawna Stone (Winner of the Apprentice: Martha Stewart and founder of Her Sports + Fitness magazine). Dawna brings in her myriad of experience and explains some real world situations and their solutions. Every chapter also has a sweet short ending summarizing the contents and listing the action points. Dawna also chips in experiences and success stories of some well-known names including Oprah Winfrey, Jim Marshall, Tim Wilkins, Bill Gates, Steve Forbes Cheryl Richardson and others. The book is divided mainly into two sections the basic seven skills to build your foundation and further tips and techniques to apply for a bright future in business and life.
The section of resume and interview preparation is very good in content. Recent graduates and job hunters watch out for this section. The best part of the book is that Dawna has done a great job of translating her experience effectively into words in a simple and consistent language. Instead of being very philosophical, the book explains some real world issues and their solution. The language is simple, consistent and easy to understand. Some of the success stories are well explained to clarify the point at hand. Dawna also has touched upon some social issues in work place like sexual discrimination. The only weakness I found was that the book sometimes become a little repetitive and stretches itself around the main point.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and should prove a helpful resource to head start my career next week.

Thanks,
Amit Deshpande

For more information visit:
http://www.home.amit-deshpande.com
http://www.amit-deshpande.com

Easily one of the best books on the market as far as applicable tips. People looking to be classier, kinder, more successful, more impressive at work should pick this book up and read it. The stories she tells and the tips she gives are easy applied to real-life scenarios. As a college professor, I was impressed and believe this book can lend a hand in finding success in one's career and one's personal life.

Unlike this book, so many other business & motivational books are full of fluff or obvious tips. This book had tips I had never even thought of - and some of these little ideas she shares could probably make the difference between a mediocre working experience and an incredible working experience. I'm glad I picked it up and feel like I now have a new set of tools to bring to work.

I also found her stories about believing in yourself to be quite inspiring -- I never knew some of these people had such rough starts before finding success.

Anyways, love this book.

Great book! I just finished reading this uplifting, easy-to-read manual of doing it right. I often found myself saying "yeah! That's a great idea. Why didn't I think of that?" and "I can do that!" Dawna and Matt offer practical advice and practices that we can all implement immediately.
I am an elementary school teacher and found the advice to be applicable both with my students and dealing with peers and supervisors. I have left a copy in our faculty room and encouraged others to read it. I may even try some of the suggestions on my husband ---but don't tell him!

There are not enough words to describe how useful and educational I think this book is. After having been backstabbed on my last project I have recognized how damaging it is to not want to or be able to succeed in the craft of office politics. I have read and absorbed every page twice on my first read which will not be my last. I was deeply impressed and inspired by the information and samples presented on every single page. My goal is not to become a selfish office politician but to be able to further my career (not only) by fending off my adversaries with ethical politics and defense mechanisms. "Winning Office Politics" is the right tool for that task.

The most important thing to know about this book is that it is REALLY COMPREHENSIVE. Not only does it cover everything you hope it does, but it also covers it from BOTH the perspectives of lower-level employees, and higher-up employees.

I bought this book after finding out that working hard, and STAYING OUT of office politics was getting me NOWHERE, AND HURTING MY CAREER. Especially since I work in an organization where it seems that office politics is all that many employees are thinking about! The book discusses the ineveitability of office politics, and gives you an extensive test to find out how "political" you are yourself. The results surprised me in that I was not quite the "dolt" I had previously presumed myself to be!

Once you have examined your own potential at office politics, the book tells you every possible strategy to get on your boss's good side, and every possible strategy to gain the support of lower-ranking people, as well. One example they gave that I would NEVER have thought of is to pay careful attention to whether your boss prefers written, or oral, communication. I never paid attention to that before-I was giving my boss written memos, because written information is more comfortable for ME, when he prefers to hear things ORALLY.

The book then goes on to describe techniques to grab power in an organization, how to use political information, devious political tactics, political blunders, outwitting difficult people, bouncing back from career adversity, surviving a corporate takeover, and defending yourself against unfair politics. It discusses ALL of these topics from the perspectives of lower-level,mid-level, and upper-level positions. So no matter if you work in the mail room, in the executive suite, or anywhere in between, this book is for YOU. One of the best, most comprehensive books I've recently read.

Simply put, this was a very well-organized, comprehensive, straightforward though plainly-written book about corporate politics. If you want to avoid political blunders, outwit opponents, and survive career setbacks, then there are chapters for you here. If you're ambitious, there are chapters on grabbing power and influence, as well as chapters about devious techniques that may be used against you and how to defend against them. Yes, corporate politics can seem petty at times, but unfortunately it's a reality. And given increasingly competitive work environments, this book should have something for everyone, from powerless office minions to the most Machiavellian managers.

On the plus side, the book is comprehensive, well structured, and makes a good reference. There are many sub-sections and very descriptive section headings, so you can easily find a section that applies to you. Also, you can absorb most of the main points by just by looking at the section headings. The supporting text is clearly written, and contains mostly examples.

On the downside, the text itself isn't particularly lively - the prose is plain, factual, and straightforward, so while it's not difficult to read, it's slightly dry. Next, given the very strong outline and descriptive headings, you could skip the text & just read the headings and get just as much out of the book. So in retrospect, reading the entire book seems redundant. Also, if you've worked in corporate America a while, many of the suggestions aimed at novices will seem blindingly obvious (i.e. don't yell at your boss). Also, a few of the supporting examples seem ludicrous -- for example, on p. 103, he recommends that if you want to impress coworkers at the office picnic, you should bring an extremely attractive person as a companion, "even if you have to rent one." This hired help then is supposed to flirt with your coworkers and flaunt their looks. Suggestions in this ilk are in the minority, though.

If you're still not sold on this book, then here's some of the tips Dubrin goes delves into that may interest you:
First, one should size up your boss, understand his/her objectives, get him/her on your side, be loyal & help him/her succeed. To grab power, he recommends that one should look powerful, network and form alliances & coalitions with powerful people, target getting key jobs and roles that control important corporate projects. To impress superiors, one should shine at meetings, be cool under pressure, be polite and loyal, and flatter your superiors without being too obsequious.

DuBrin also outlines how to avoid basic blunders such as bypassing your boss or yelling at him/her, being disloyal, complaining about an ex-boss or old employer, deviating too far from custom or organizational beliefs, dumping well-connected people and burning your bridges. Instead, one should be a consistent performer, in control of ones emotions, appear committed to the job & your organization, be visible to upper management. One should also find a mentor, toot your own horn softly, take sensible career risks, work for a strong boss and help him/her succeed, and avoid weaker managers. Additionally, speak directly & honestly, stop malicious gossip and rumors, resolve conflicts early, and share credit, information, favors, gossip, and recognition. During career setbacks, one shouldn't panic, but should get support from others, sell yourself to people who can help you, and take action to plan your comeback.

For the Machiavellians out there, there are chapters that outline devious tricks, such as backstabbing, double-crossing, discrediting your rival, stealing credit, exclude rivals from meetings or abolish their jobs or transferring them to "corporate Siberia," giving negative references, and giving self-serving advice. Dealing with difficult people also poses a challenge, and DuBrin's strategy is to leverage their weaknesses, taking over part of their jobs, and to give them negative but honest feedback either individually or with a group. To defend against retaliation, he recommends exposing dirty tricks and confronting critics who bad-mouth you.

Overall, I think this book would make a good reference for anyone working in an office. I think it can provide lots of tips for novices, and valuable reminders for corporate old-hands. It's well-organized, comprehensive, and straightforward, despite a few negative points. Recommended.

Working hard, keeping your nose clean and the promotions will come and you will be successful. NOT. The book is filled with REAL LIFE EXAMPLES of why working hard doesn't always work. This is the best book on the market today if you want to protect what you have and earn what you deserve. The book will also help those who want to move ahead and steer clear of the traps and potholes. Very easy to read and apply.

This book is one of two key resources I recommend to my clients, in my capacity as a professional motivational speaker. The other is:

The Secret Handshake: Mastering the Politics of the Business Inner Circle
by Kathleen Kelly Phd Reardon

As a set these two books cover the fundamentals of mastering corporate and office politics, With Dr Reardon's Book covering the Big Picture and Dr DuBrin's covering the details.

As a set these two books, will put you securely on the road to Political Mastery.

In Everything Truth, Faith and Love
Destin

This book isn't for everyone. I came across it in college when like most others I had no idea what to do with my life. It struck a chord with me right away, but it took me a few more years to muster up the courage to actually follow through with the book's suggestions. Change, as Nancy honestly proclaims, is hard. But once you feel ready, this is the best, and possibly the only book out there that offers practical and real help for people who believe they have something special to offer the world and believe they should expect great things in return.

The idea behind the book simple (but then so are all brilliant ideas): closely examine your life for clues that are dying to tell you what you have been born to do. There is a great deal of positive psychology involved here. Mainly that the difficulties of childhood create passion, and that in an effort to give yourself the things you didn't get as a child, you can build a meaningful career that not only heals you but helps others. I don't know about everyone else, but that's certainly the news I was waiting to hear all my life.

While most "career" books out there have us complete questionnaires and take tests to find a place to fit us into, Nancy Anderson encourages us to carve out our own unique path. If you are a young person, never quiet satisfied with what the world has to offer you and convinced that you want more, this book can actually change your life. So run to the store, or click right here, and buy it now, but only if you are ready to put in the hard work.

This book was the foundation upon which I was able to change my life from that of an frustrated CEO to an independent business woman, wife, mother and friend. Nancy's process uncovered so many "ahh hahhhhh" moments that the dots connected themselves. I found myself breathing deeper, living lighter and seeing a brighter future. All of my relationships have improved -- including the one with myself! It has been three years since I started the my "Work With Passion" journey and my life is amazingly fulfilled. I thank Nancy and her guidance for showing me the way. I now recommend this book to all of my friends. An easy way to find a better life path.

"Do not let mediocre people discourage you," writes Nancy Anderson as she encourages her readers to discover the passion within and apply it to their lives. Such passion will attract other people to you. She notes, "People cooperate with people for mutual gain in a trade-off situation."

On the examined life, she includes an exercise whereby you can write the epitaph for your life. In essence, mine was to live passionately as a steward to Jesus Christ, maximizing the resouces He provided for me to serve as steward over.

She has some insightful things to say about how our work defines us, telling us, "It is through the dignity of the work we do that we achieve self-esteem in life." Anderson is a big advocate of enjoying life's journey, reminding readers that life can be adventurous and provide satisfaction.

Nancy Anderson's unique book, Work with Passion, is unlike anything I've ever read. It's a one-of-a-kind, hands-on, practical approach to getting paid to do what comes naturally to you. This is not a job hunt book. It's about the process that takes you to knowing your life's work, what's enjoyable for you, the job or business that uses all of your talents and skills. Doing this work gives you deep personal satisfaction, and all the money you need.

Work with Passion is different from other career books because it connects the emotional and psychological intricacies of early family life to the subconscious blocks that inhibit personal and financial success. I discovered this connection six years ago after I worked through the exercises in the book. I am still amazed by the transformation and changes that have occurred and are still occurring in my life since then. The process was slow and often painful, but it led me to freedom from the past. I've learned that the journey should be enjoyed because that's how you come to know yourself and what you love. The hardest part was letting go of what's familiar and trusting in the unknown. It's been a struggle to dissolve the myth that work should be drudgery, but three years ago I moved to Madrid, Spain and created my own business doing what I love most, language and communication coaching. The journey and process are still unfolding, but thanks to the work Nancy's book encouraged me to do, I'm at a place in my life that I had only dreamt of when I was younger.

Nancy Anderson doesn't just show you how to find a career you're passionate about she shows you how to find a life you're passionate about!

As I worked my way through my autobiography, and the other enlightening excercises in the book, I watched the hardened exterior of my old life crack and fall away, exposing the shine of a new life as bright as freshly polished silver.

I recommend this book to anyone who is tired of being and working the way others think they "should" and to those who are tired of making excuses for not doing the work they love and living the life they deserve.

Life is precious, live it now. This book will show you how.