An important must-read for business owners and entrepreneurs
359364
We too often see ambitious, young businessmen excitedly create their little startups, only to burn it out in a few months or a year. That's because we often regard starting a business as something that should bring us tidy profits--we rarely, if at all, consider our business as an "organization"--with a dynamism that involves human beings. Hence, the high attrition rate in places as Silicon Valley. That's why Randy Mayeux's '12 Vital Signs of Organizational Health' is quite indispensable for the business owner, old or new--because it allows you to check out if you're still on the right track, and if you're not, what you can do to realign everything to your organization's original over-arching goals.

Mayeux has written something that serves as an important roadmap that will guide you and your organization as you negotiate your way toward what you've identified as success. For starters, the book's list of "assumptions" is a huge eye-opener--Mayeux brings us back to the basics (what it takes to sell a product or service, what's the nature of a commodity that people will actually buy and bring you profit) and sets our thinking straight. What you immediately realize within the first few pages is that you cannot afford to kid yourself--you have to be laser-accurate, completely BS-free, and totally not self-deluded when you're starting a business or running an organization. Otherwise, it's only a matter of time until your compounding mistakes will bring about collapse.

And that's only the beginning. Mayeux's `12 Vital Signs of Organizational Health' comes with some exciting yet time-tested business philosophies that have been used by successful individuals to their own enrichment--there's no reason why you cannot use these to also improve your own situation.

Moreover, Mayeux's writing is also commendable--this is a business book, but he writes from the heart and stays in touch with one's humanity. His language feels intimate, as if a friend who's "in the know" patiently and emphatically explains to you how the world is run. The way Mayeux writes makes even high-faluting business concepts so easy to understand and assimilate.

If anything, you should print out Mayeux's "Prelude" and post it on a prominent place in your workplace or office--so that everyone--from the highest-ranking manager to the humblest employee--won't forget what it really takes to succeed and flourish as an organization. I highly recommend this book--order it or give it to someone who may need the morsels of wisdom--this book can spare them the heartache from any costly mistake they might commit in an organization. Five stars, no less.
1421218
All businesses face challenges... and owners or leaders tend to focus on the big challenges they face and more often than not address them correctly.  However, as the saying goes... "it is the pennies that make the dollars", and in any business it is those small things often overlooked due to the day to day whirlwind that can make a big difference.  This book will help you, the business leader,  to review not only big issues, but those hidden ones that may have been n often negleeglected and yet hold significant rewards if attention is given to them. A must read this year . - JSF - Canada
4003545
Though the title suggests this book is about advertising, you'll quickly discover that this book is a must-read for anyone interested in developing a product, starting a business, or growing a business. The authors' views on many topics, such as the appreciation of branding and importance of quality is universally applicable but obviously not universally understood or implemented by many in business.  Maybe marketing types already know this stuff, but entrepreneurs - even successful ones - can use the ideas in the book to improve their businesses substantially.
1853164
Although, gorilla face on the cover page was not my cup of tea, I presume it is related to how the author initiated his business ventures. Fortunately, I'm not the type of person who judges a book by its cover, otherwise I would have missed out on this awesome book!

Schussler shares his strategies for success by pinpointing the "Five P's" of entrepreneurial success - Personality, Product, Persistence, People, and Philanthropy - which jump-starts creative thinking, and helps business people turn their ideas in to reality.  Curious, I wanted to find out more about his 5 strategies.

Some of the points in the book that caught my fancy were: 'Don't be afraid to dream, and dream big,' as successful entrepreneurs tend to have the positive thinking attitude that allows them to reach for their goals. Also, dreaming big gives a person a better chance at succeeding big.

Another chapter in the book that I enjoyed reading was chapter 8: Sweat the Small Stuff - something that an aspiring entrepreneur should take great importance and pride in. I am impressed with how Schussler took the extra mile to ensure his clients are satisfied with their deals and projects. As Schussler mentions early in this chapter, people often fail to realize just how important paying attention to detail is, causing them to lose out on bigger opportunities. Schussler exemplifies this principle with his personal experience in noticing and picking up a cigarette butt on the walkway right outside his office door while he was with a client for a company tour. Attention to details such as this impresses his client so much as it reflects on his personality and his company's.

I also concur with the chapter that touches on making someone feel special, as it does go a long way and ensures the relationship with the clients remain strong. Schussler provides his readers with examples that show how friendships help forge stronger business ties.

This book is a good choice for individuals who are aspiring to be successful in their business or those who are already in the business world wondering whether there's anything else that can be done to build up their business.
3678803
Authors Derek Armstrong and Kam Wai Yu have penned a `must-have' book that will change the way business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals do business. Expertly researched with numerous examples and stories, this incisive book is an easy read.

The Persona Principle: How to Succeed in Business with Image-Marketing shows you how to create and build a customized visible image, one that will be remembered. "The biggest obstacle to your success is invisibility," the authors say. Armstrong and Yu teach practical solutions that, if followed, ensures your visibility. Unlike other marketing books, this one actually shows you how to do it.

This book is not just for business owners, but also for anyone who wants to create the image of success. Simple language is used, instead of the technical and confusing jargon that is commonplace in most books of this type. You will understand this book!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Author of Divine Intervention
3373831
Danielle Tate's book is an invaluable resource for those looking to start and/or grow their business. She provides insight into what it takes to succeed in an easy to read format. Not only does the book contain Ms. Tate's personal experience as a business owner, but includes interviews from several other women in a variety of fields with differing levels of expertise and experience. As a small business owner, this book has helped me to look at my existing business practices in a new way and has assisted us in developing further strategies to ensure continued growth.

I look forward to reading the next book that the 'Elegant Entrepreneur' publishes!
2728702
Book review
Dr. Steve Kornfeld, DVM, CPCC

In his book, Beyond the E-Myth, author Michael Gerber brings to bare his 40 years of helping small business owners shift from being technicians to becoming true business owners, even entrepreneurs.

As a Gerber-file, who has read all his books, and as someone who has witnessed the true meaning of being technician-owners in my profession, veterinary medicine, I can sympathize with Michaels frustrations over the years. Most small business owners would rather be technicians, their comfort zone, and let everything else take care of their business.

Thats why I like Michaels teaching and thats why I feel this book speaks to me. Michael literally pours 40 years of wisdom into this book. Although thin in pages, this book is thick with powerful messages on how to attain the greater purpose of a businessits legacy. I think herein lies the biggest difference between business owners and technicians. I love how in this book, Michael builds the story of reaching out for the legacy from the ground up. I had to read the book twice to be able to capture the many pearls hidden in it.

So pay attention and learn.
71759
First, let me start by saying this is not just another small-business book - this is a work of art. The layout is very appealing and makes for an easy and enjoyable read. Plus, every time I flip through the Entrepreneur's Almanac (which is often) I find another nugget of information, whether it's one of the editorials, tip boxes, side bars, or Words of Wisdom. This is a tremendous resource for any type of small business owner and I find myself referring to it on a regular basis.

One of my favorite chapters is Chapter 5: Business Etiquette and Relationships, which covers everything from hosting a business meal to email etiquette to using public places as a workspace (something else I do frequently). Readers will also learn about financial management (Chapter 7), risk management and disaster preparedness (Chapter 27), and how to get your business started (Section VI). There is even a chapter about taking care of yourself that includes staying fit and releasing stress (Chapter 33).

A must read for every entrepreneur - whether you are just starting out or have been in the trenches for a while!

Reviewed by Charlene Davis, a business writer specializing in start-up ventures, e-commerce, retail, and food. Please see her profile for more information.
4293462
This book is excellent. It gives the essential information readers need to know about improving customer relationships.  The authors offer straightforward information and insights. Regardless of what industry you work in or your daily responsibilities, this book balances theory and real-world information. This book is well worth the price.  In my opinion, this book is a must-have for a small business owner. I highly recommend it!
436120
I just read Buyer Legends on a flight from LA to New York. It could be read on much shorter flight and it packs a punch in 46 or so pages. The Buyer Legend concept makes so much sense that I was left wondering why it hadn't been articulated decades ago. Leave it to Bryan and Jeffrey to powerfully describe an important idea and couple it with crytal clear directions for putting it to use for your own business. The book is aimed at retail and service businesses with traditional products. As a sole proprietor of a business with unique services, Buyer Legends seems 100% relevant to me. In fact, I can't think of a business or organization that wouldn't benefit from reading this book and applying its advice. Well done!
3378987
Most people know that an entrepreneurial mindset is essential for success in any business.  However, what most people don't realize is that the e-mindset is critical for success of any business.  This is a must read for all those with business aspirations.
2668254
Elaine Starling offers a clear and reliable way for entrepreneurs and business owners to discover the real value in what they do for their clients and customers. Instead of another book full of suggestions of even more things to do, Elaine's gift is in helping business owners distinguish who they're "being" in their business. This simple distinction brings clarity and enormous leverage. If you're tired of working longer and harder for diminishing results, this book is a must read.
529487
After having been around the bend a few times in business, and paying for the privilege more than once, it is about time someone got to the core of what being a business-savvy talent is all about!

Mike captures the heart of the matter, focusing on what is important --- what creates a great and strong bottom line.  Building on such things as immutable laws (you gotta have those), and the other necessary pillars to building a sound, life long and innovative business is laid out for you in black n white in this book.

Thanks for stepping out on a limb Mike, and giving those of us sitting in the shadows from fatigue an "i told you so" moment in business.

If you want to know how to balance, create, and design a win-win enterprise, look no further. Become a TPE -- you'll be glad you did!
1421330
"The Startup Owner's Manual" is an incredibly useful and usable book. In fact, it might be the most useful business book ever written. If you are serious about being an entrepreneur and launching your own successful business, you must read this book. I also strongly recommend reading "Four Steps to the Epiphany," Steve's earlier book that sets the stage for "The Startup Owner's Manual." These books aren't written for dummies -- they are the real deal. Read these two books and you will have earned the equivalent of a Stanford MBA. This stuff is pure gold. Kudos to Steve and Bob for their generosity and willingness to share their amazingly valuable knowledge with the world! They are much more than just two highly successful entrepreneurs -- they are role models, and their book is an excellent example of how you can create good karma by sharing with others the knowledge and truths that you have acquired!
3177018
Jump Start Your Business is written for anyone who has dreamed of starting their own business, for those who already have a business and want to make it better, and for those who want to grow their business to the next level. Successful entrepreneurs, graduate students, and company employees alike will learn from the many key tips, tools and techniques provided for igniting the entrepreneurial spirit within.

The material is well organized, presented in a natural progression of building blocks (the 10 Jolts) with sound principles and guidelines for establishing clear mission and vision statements which lead to articulate personal and professional goals. The discussion on the importance of time management, taking advantage of available resources, and of networking resonated with me.  I also found the chapter on building and maintaining energy while being passionate about identifying tools that motivate and inspire especially helpful.

Other Components include finances, creative thinking, the power of words, and other skills that enable and empower personal growth and success in business round out the 10 Jolts.

Authors Shawn and Rachael Doyle are both experienced in the field of startup businesses, entrepreneurship, advocates of lifelong learning, and actively implementing motivational and training programs. Their writing style is informal, reader friendly, challenging the reader to complete the Work It exercises, included after each chapter, and to work with accountability partners.

This is an important addition to the other Jump Start  titles published by Sound Wisdom books.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own.
64851
A must-read for anyone interested in building a business.

Smart, savvy, practical and insightful advice told in a clear and empathetic voice. This book is packed with everything you need to know about marketing, advertising, promotions, websites, social networking and more.

If you choose to learn these lessons the hard way, you'll choose to learn these lessons the expensive way. Bad idea.

This book is an entrepreneur's survival guide. Read it, practice its teachings and succeed!
4520700
A great and informative read for any small business owner or aspiring entrepreneurs.  Jeff shares his insights and experience which will add significant value to all business owners.