Business Books

This book is a must have for anyone in the working world, especially for those just about to enter it. The ideas and concepts the author presents are very true, and are things you will not learn in any college education. I've been working in consulting for the past 5 years. This is a field where your softskills can make or break you, just like in many others. The tips, guidance, and suggestions that Ms. Klaus points out are ones that can propel your career to the next level. I can't tell you how many times I heard that so and so was a good consultant technically but they lacked the people skills necessary to put them infront of a client. This seemingly small assesment can actually hinder your career as being able to manage the client is what will take you to the next level.

This book has laid out examples in detail and when needed given both sides (positive and negative) examples to emphasize balance required on some soft skills.

I would highly recommend this book to any.

I liked the way topics were broken down into bullet statements and examples. It took longer to read than I expected because there's no filler material. Now my co-workers are all reading it in an effort to relate better to other departments.

This book is spot on about being the "hard truth" about soft skills. We can often get caught up in what we think is "fair", what companies "should" do and how people "should" behave and all of those things are honestly irrelevant. It is not until people are ready to face the hard truths that they are able to make decisions about their willingness to make changes to their work styles that will impact their career track.

This book explained in detail, how to survive in the workplace. It has many examples on how to follow the unwritten rules (usually gained from many years in the work environment). I plan to purchase books for my employees and other young adults entering the workforce

This book is really good. however my main problem with is that it is mainly good for the American resort market, and not so useful in European circumstances speciall in smaller individual cityhotels.
I have to stress that it is very well written but not what i was looking for.
It is also abit dated. nevertheless I think everyone working this field shoud read it!

Great to read. very good book.

Just finished it. Had to write a review. In summary: The Best Marketing Book Ever!

Very interesting and helpful
From real pro!
Not a textbook, fun and easy to read

I normally don't take the time to write book reviews, but this book was so amazing that I felt obligated to comment. It is succinct, well-written, and extremely easy to read. The ideas in this book can be applied to any type of hospitality product. Mr. Raza supplements the text by giving links to websites the readers can visit to obtain more information.

The chapters:
1) Hospitality and Marketing
2) The Market
3) Products
4) Branding
5) Advertising
6) How to Create Better Brochures and Collateral Materials
7) Public Relations
8) Promotions
9) 25 Proven Ways to Reach Travel Agents
10) Coop Marketing: How to Get the Best Results from Marketing Through Wholesalers and Tour Operators
11) Internet Marketing
12) Loyalty Marketing
13) Marketing Operations
14) Behind the Budget
Appendix: The Marketing Plan

Dr. Davis's book is an excellent tool for personal and professional use. With managed care limits on sessions, I am utilizing this book in both my private and State EAP (employee assistance program) practices as a means to "cut to the chase" for clients. The book provides a framework for self improvement based on cognitive psychology theory, and fits beautifully in my coaching model of services. I highly recommend this book to individuals seeking positive changes in their lives, as well as to professionals as an enhancement tool for coaching and/or therapy. Terri Gorman, LCSW

I 100% reccomend this book. It is extremely helpful for a healthy mind and life in competitive sports, as well as every day life. It is very well written and is excellent for teens and adults!

Just what you need to start with this way of thinking.

All of the points are not new, but the experience and the cleariness
make the book a great and enjoyable starting point.

Another plus: it is short enough that you'll be sure to... finish it

Wow! What a terrific book! As a Figure Skater, I gained tremendous strength from Dr. Davis' words and I was amazed at how simple it was to understand her "filing system". After reading this book, I cannot wait to compete in my next championship.

High Performance Thinking is an excellent source for anyone who wants to start using their thoughts to create success in any area of their life. It is was so easy to read, I felt as if Dr. Davis was speaking to me in a casual conversation. If you want to think your way to success, this is the book for you!

I have been in the retained search business for over 18 years and Lou's book is the only book and related seminar program to "hit the proverbial nail on the head" when it comes to interviewing and assessing top talent. Lou gives numerous case studies and examples to illustrate his ideas, unlike many books which leave you with such a superficial level of information that you sense they were nothing more than hot air. The best part of Lou's book is that you could skim the contents and walk into an interview and gain a very high confidence that the candidate can achieve the results you desire. Lou gives a step by step methodology for conducting the interview and assessing the results. Many of my clients, ranging from Fortune 100 companies to entrepreneurial DOT COM start-ups, swear by Lou's approach to interviewing and candidate assessment. I give a copy of Lou's book to all my clients. The other great part of Lou's book is that it is supported by a world-class web site for hiring and interviewing, POWERHiring.Com.

This book gives a solid foundation to interviewers on good hiring techniques and a box of tools to help conduct better selection interviews. I recommend the book.

Wayne D. Ford, Ph.D., author of "How to Spot a Liar in a Job Interview" and "How to Spot a Phony Resume" docwifford@msn.com

I've been a hiring manager for over 10 years. After reading Lou Adler's common sense approach to hiring in "Hire With Your Head, a rational way to make a gut decision" I ordered copies of his book for each of my hiring managers. This sensible approach to hiring has forever changed my approach to personnel staffing.

I have used Lou Adler's POWER Hiring for over 3 years now. I have been a recruiting/ employment professional and consultant for 32 years and have seen a great number of methods, processes and procedures come and go. I have to say, this is by far the best of the best! Not only has this proven successful for me, but I have taught the methodology to quite a few of my clients. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. In my consulting capacity, I have the opportunity every day to observe the candidate/employer selection process. I also see the end results of the selection as I talk to employees who tell me about the latest hire that didn't work out very well. I frequently hear from the candidate who didn't match the new position and has a desire to search for a new position, often due to the misinformation presented in the interview process. I have observed that mistakes are made in a very high percentage of cases. It takes a lot to make an effective match. An employee might perform above average in one situation/culture and very average or below in others. For example, a Controller position in one firm may differ dramatically in terms of size and scope of responsibility, skills required, expected deliverables, etc. Just as not all Controllers are created equal, neither are the jobs. POWER Hiring is very effective in focusing on the factors of the specific position vs. the skills and talents of the candidate, with the end result being a drastic reduction in hiring errors. My suggestion; note the overwhelmingly positive responses by the readers on this site, buy the book and you will experience and enjoy the positive results you will achieve when employing these principles!

According to articles in three major publications, the problems and recommendations in Lou Adler's book do address the correct issues. A recent Harvard Business Review article identified ten major interviewing mistakes -- known to most professionals -- but a constant struggle unless a technique like POWER Hiring is used. Training Magazine has a current article calling for something more than traditional "behavioral interviewing" to deal with increased preparation (and sometimes lies) on the part of interviewees. The POWER Hiring approach probes much deeper than traditional behavioral interviewing -- and solves this problem by switching from "having" to "doing." And Fortune Magazine recently recognized Adler's book as the "best" on addressing the ever more complicated issue of navigating the internet.

I've trained hundreds of human resources and management professionals on interviewing techniques. I've never seen a technique as strong as Adler's POWER Hiring. I've counseled hundreds of job seekers in a volunteer job seekers program -- they've reacted very positively when I've suggested that being prepared to answer Lou Adler's questions would really set them apart.

POWER Hiring, as suggested by Adler, is theoretically solid, based on sound management principles that hiring managers often forget -- and it works!

The book is great. If you want to get in the to industry (that's what people call the film industry in Southern California), buy the book. It gives a complete break down of all the people that are required to make any movie. So next time when you watch the ending credits, you'll know what a key grip, best boy, art director, first assistance director does and be able to tell your friends as they walk out of the theater asking, "What's a best boy?"

if you are already in filmmaking you might know all that this book covers. if you are not, i don't see how this book could help you to get in. maybe if you have no idea of what you want to do in the business... but even than...

It was informative and not at all boring. A must-read for those who are new to the Industy. Explains the steps of advancement for nearly every job in the entertainment industry. Excellent resource for goal-setting/ career management.

I purchased a number of "get into film/hollywood" books and this one was by far the most helpful. While it doesn't have much of the typical career advice (how to write your resume, cover letters etc.), which are better covered in more general job hunting books, it is the perfect book to read to get a sense for the jobs that do exist in Hollywood. If you're interested in the industry, but find it something of a "black box" or are unsure exactly what type of position to try and look for, this book is the ideal starting point. Levy walks through the entire industry, from agencies to studios, to actors, directors, costume designers etc. Given the wide canvas, none of the positions are covered in too much detail, but I think the book ideally serves as an excellent starting point from which to know where to pursue more information.

Finally, the tone of the book is excellent - one of excitement and encouragement. While it's a small point, dry and depressing hollywood career books abound - it's refreshing to find one that's has an enthusiasm and optimism to match your own.

I am an entertainment buff and I thought this book was great for people who want a survey of jobs they can pursue. It gave an in depth look at a lot of the positions in the film business. If you want a general look at the possible jobs, get this book. If you are more interested in television, this book is a great start, but it doesn't say anything about that since its primarly about film so look for another book for further reading. I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to break into the business, it was really helpful for me.

This is a great book to start with if you are thinking about a career in Hollywood. The author gives a great overview of the business and makes sure she explains herself well. An easy read. Highly recommend!

This book is a great addition to this author's other work - a fact-filled compendium of documents and advice for producers and production managers that's simply the best single book about making films professionally.

This book is a bit different, dealing with the other things - personal drive, character, etc.

If you are in the business, you will find something here you didn't know!

My friend Mark Hansson wrote to me recently to recommend Eve's other book - The Complete Film Production Handbook (3rd Edition, Book & CD-ROM). Mark is a busy guy in `the biz,' having done almost a hundred films and TV shows, including episodes of Murder She Wrote, Fat Actress, Six Feet Under, as well as the features Dreamgirls and The Quickie (overlooked and much-recommended) - so his advice is key.

Turns out that Eve and Mark have been friends for a couple of decades, since they met on a film when Eve was a Production Coordinator. Mark read the first edition in galley form, long before it became a standard reference book at most studios and at many film schools. Eve's got another book out too: Hollywood Drive: What it Takes to Break in, Hang in & Make it in the Entertainment Industry.

While Hollywood Drive deals with more `esoteric issues,' The Complete Handbook is worth its price for the production forms alone: a CD Rom of almost 200 templates that can be customized and adapted for any film or TV show. Mark says, "I still use some of them today, such as the `Walkie Talkie Checkout List,' an active Word document that you can type into once it has been downloaded."

Eve herself has helped thousands of our industry colleagues, through classes and the group she founded - the Film Industry Network (FIN), which still meets once a month at Sony studios. Mark again: "I'm very proud of Eve and the second career she has found as an author and teacher. She's an extraordinary person. And no - I don't get royalties from the book!"

I don't get royalties either - in fact I bought both books right here on Amazon, and I am glad I did. The Complete Film Production Handbook is a must-have for any producer, director, or production manager.

You wouldn't know this book is a great marketing book and writers should read this one. The book focuses on the film industry but there is a wealth of information in here about marketing yourself that writers can benefit from. There are some great excercises you can use to start defining yourself and begin your publicity. Whether it is for your book, screenplay or yourself.

I just received this book today, and cannot put it down. Honthaner writes with such ease, it's almost as if she's sitting there discussing the entertainment industry with you. As a recent graduate and an intense drive to make it in Hollywood, this book suits all of my needs in seriously knowing the ins-and-outs of the business. I would definitely reccomend Hollywood Drive to anyone with a similar passion to want to know all and be in the mix of the entertainment industry.

I attended author Eve Honthaner's class at USC in 2004. Titled "Breaking In, Hanging In and Making It," the class gave me all the skills and tools necessary to make it into the film industry in Hollywood. Her encouragement and burning desire to help people succeed in following their dreams translates well from the classroom to the page. For those who don't have 6 weeks and $2,000 to spend on her enlightening course at USC, this book is a real bargain. If you are serious about pursuing a career in Hollywood, "Hollywood Drive" will teach you the importance of networking and all the other skills necessary to get your foot in the door. Using the tried and true methods of Eve Honthaner, I got my first job in Hollywood with Fox -- and many more to follow. I now recommend this book to everyone who dreams of Hollywood and has the courage to pursue that dream.

When a close relative passed away very unexpectedly, this book helped guide me through all the legal issues. In a very difficult time, it truly helped keep me afloat in a sea of the unknown.

My Mother passed away and we thought all the paperwork was in order and it was not. I got this book from Amazon and it has outlined every detail and possible stituation. I went and got all the forms and and in the middle of probate right now. Very, very well written for a simple probate case and non complicated estates.
If there are people who will contest the will or complicated properties, business deals; most likely, you will need a lawyer and probating yourself will not work. But if it is very clear and simple, you can probabe yourself. Great book, worh every penny spent on it.

This book really helped my wife go through the probate process for her mother's estate. Highly recommended book!

This is a great book for going through the probate process. It takes
you through the entire process and explains all the jargon. The only
problem I had with it is that if your probate includes anything which
is a little out-of-the-ordinary, e.g., heirs/beneficiaries who may contest the will, it does not help. However, one book cannot cover 100% of
the possible cases. This book probably covers 95% of the probate cases
and is helpful even if you are one of the "odd-cases" and you are not familiar with the probate process.

If you can only purchase one book on probate in California, this book should be your first stop. I am in the process of probating my mother's estate and I will save at least $20,000 by using this book. There a dozens of forms, tips and tons of information on the subject. If you are motivated and organzed, this is the guide to help you avoid the high cost of attorneys in probate. I cannot urge you STRONGLY enough to use this book as your guide to probate in California.

This is a fantastic book! It is a very truthful and open approach to this business. Definitely something to take a look at considering all of us could use some extra income in this new economic market. If you are looking for information about the tools and systems you will need to consider if you are going to think about selling other people's stuff ... this is the book to get.

It shipped quickly and was in good shape. I bought this from an outside vendor. Started reading it. Very clear good information in it.

Skips book How to Start and Run an eBay Consignment Business is the best resource for zeroing in on becoming a successful Trading Assistant. There are many other books out there, but most of them cover many things about eBay. Skip covers every aspect of the business. I have been an successful TA for many years and still refer back to this book.

Short and sweet, this book gives you all the essentials of starting your own eBay consignment business. Everything from business licenses, to finding consignors, to taking great auction photographs is mentioned. This is a great starting point for those looking to start their own consignment store.

About 85% of the book is in Titanium Ebay, and in the exact same words. Its just cut and paste. If this is your first Skip McGraph book, this is excellent way to start.

I love McGraph style, and incisive info on the Ebay business. He tells you insider secrets of PowerSellers, and their tactics. But the best are the cases he makes, examples of what to buy, how to sell it and profit. He opens up your mind that almost everything sells.

I have received excellent services nfrom Amazon in the purchase and delivery of the book under reference.
I have made other prior purchases from Amazon and my experience is that Amazon makes her services better every day.

I purchased the book looking for help with charitable fundrasing letter accross broad categories. The book is very detailed, but has a strong focus on direct mail for fundraising. This is the author's background, and the book is very technical with that focused topic.

Outstanding. Reminded me of everything I'm supposed to be doing in my fundraising letters but have forgotten over the years. It's the bible for fundraising letters!

This is a wonderful tool that allows you to ask for donations "nicely." I really recommend this book to all who assist charities for a living whether on a professional level or as a volunteer.

If you ever think you will have to write a fundraising letter, you NEED this book. Too many people think it is just like writing any other kind of letter but it isn't. There is a rhyme and, more importantly, a reason to it. Don't write a fundraising letter without reading this book first.

This is the best book on marketing I have ever read. Since the first time I picked it up more than 9 years ago (it was published in 1997 but I found it on clearance at a Book Warehouse about a year after that), I have re-read it every year. I've also bought about a dozen copies, which I've lent out. Sadly, as I was looking at my bookshelf today, 10 of those have not come back. That's okay. I'll buy more. In fact, I'm giving away copy #11 tomorrow to the new athletic director at my alma mater. No matter WHAT you sell (but especially if you're in sports marketing), this book (and it's sequel, Marketing Outrageously!) are well worth your time and money.

Jon Spoelstra has come out with a marketing guide that will help every marketer become more successful. From his rubber chicken tactic to his ideas on hiring - this simple, yet effective course in marketing will take your business to the next level. Even though most of this book describes sports marketing - every business can benefit from Jon's strategies.

Spoelstra's sub-title, "How to Market a Product Nobody Wants," is a bit of a misnomer. For me, that conjers up the negative stereotype of the salesman/marketer tricking you into buying something you don't want. Inside the book, Spoelstra's concept clearly is the polar opposite of that. He should have called the book, "Making Your Product into Something People Really do Want: a Broader Definition of Marketing."

Once you're inside the book, Spoelstra presents a litiny of ideas that are obvious once presented to you, but often seem counter-inuitive without some assistance seeing them. As a marketer in a larger firm, I've run into a lot of the same resistance as Spoelstra and have found that if you can break down the resistance, his ideas really do work.

Overall this is a practical guide, not just for marketers, but for anyone who runs a business. Highly recommended.

It is an excellent book. If you are new to marketing technique, you'd have a very good lesson by reading this. If you have been working in marketing for years, still, READ IT coz the author not only shares his real-life experience with you, but also REMIND you with something you have missed and not thinked of.

Marketing, Employee mentoring, Management...you can find everything from this book...

I would recommend this book to ALL people. Because it is helpful if one day, you were the product that needs jump-start marketing technique. (I am applying them to my job profile now)

trust me...this book is a MUST for everyone.

Eskimos have all the ice they need and presumably don't perceive the need to get any more, let alone buy it. Joe Spoelestra illustrates how to take that ice and turn it into something desirable (a Slurpee) for example, or bundle it with something that makes it desirable - a sled and a lift to create an experience to sell.

Joe details his experiences, primarily in sports marketing. They are especially applicable to those in the entertainment and service industries but can be applied in virtually any industry. The book is full of new ideas, fresh insights, and ways to repackage that which nobody wants in such a way as to change the customers' perception of value and create a compelling value proposition.

The book is much better than this review. :-) Pick it up, read it, enjoy it and act on it. "Ice to the Eskimos" will give you fast easy ideas that can be used to jump start your business!