Amazon.com

"The longest bull market in history" is a term that gets used a lot these days. Since 1990, the Dow Jones Industrial Average has risen some 8,000 points, from around 2,700 in January 1990 to nearly 11,000 today--a boom by anyone's standards, including Edward Chancellor's. In Devil Take the Hindmost, Chancellor takes an entertaining, albeit sobering, look at the history of speculative manias and the mass delusion that surrounds them.

Beginning with the "tulipomania" that gripped Holland in the 1630s, Chancellor chronicles the formations and irrational euphoria that can inflate markets, from shares of South Sea stock in England in the 1720s to real estate in Japan in the late 1980s. He characterizes the speculative spirit as one that

loves freedom, detests cant, and abhors restrictions. From the tulip Colleges of the seventeenth century to the Internet investment clubs of the late twentieth century, speculation has established itself as the most demotic of economic activities. Although profoundly secular, speculation is not simply about greed. The essence of speculation remains a Utopian yearning for freedom and equality which counterbalances the drab rationalistic materialism of the modern economic system with its inevitable inequalities of wealth.

Chancellor makes Devil Take the Hindmost especially relevant to today's U.S. investors by using his analysis of past speculative manias as a lens through which to view the current bull-market binge. No matter what his or her current investment outlook is--bull or bear--anyone with capital to invest would do well to spend a thoughtful weekend with this book. Highly recommended. --Harry C. Edwards ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Well written, informative, and informed!
For everyone interested in macroeconomic development and, of course, financial "speckulation" (read the book and you'll understand), this is required reading. Splendidly written and very informed--as one would expect from an Oxbridge educated lad, writing for the FT and The Economist--the author is able to pull of an exciting journey through the very early beginnings of speculation and to describe more thoroughly the most important bubbles; their origins, their devleopment and their ending. Most striking is the many parallels and the never ending belief of speculators in a "new" era, where old measures, a good biz plan, earnings and profits for a company (or "fundamentals") can be easily neglected for promises in the future due to a "new economy" where everything has changed. Sounds familiar? Well, ask the British in the late seventeenth hundreds...

Well written, rich in information and well balanced
For everyone interested in macroeconomic development and, of course, financial "speckulation" (read the book and you understand), this is required reading. Splendidly written and very informed--as one would expect from a Oxbridge educated lad, writing for the FT and The Economist--the author os able to pull of an exciting journey through the very early beginnings of speculation and to describe more thoroughly the most important bubbles; their origins, their devleopment and their ending. Most striking is the many parallels and the never ending belief of speculators in a "new" era, where old measures, a good biz plan, earnings and profits for a company (or "fundamentals") can be easily neglected for promises in the future due to a "new economy" where everything has changed. Sounds familiar? Well ask the Brits in the late seventeenth hundreds...

Speculation: A Necessary Scourge?
Published at the height of the 1990s technology bubble and two years after the onset of the Asian financial crisis, "Devil Take the Hindmost" offers a remarkably insightful examination of historical asset bubbles. Chancellor first takes us to ancient Rome, where currency crises were the norm due to currency speculation, and where the Forum Romanum served as the venue for shady deals in stocks and bonds. Indeed, speculation as an economic activity was ab urbe condita, or literally since the founding of the city of Rome. He then takes us to Venice circa the Middle Ages, where, in all probability, some of the earliest instances of insider trading took place. A spectacular panorama of financial shenanigans then unfolds, chapter by chapter: the overblown demand for tulips in the Netherlands during the 17th century; the British debt conversion scheme during the 1700s which led to the South Sea bubble; the Gilded Age in the US; the Wall Street crash of 1929; and the bursting of the Japanese economic bubble.

Speculators absorb risk and provide liquidity in the marketplace. Arguably, their insight into market fluctuations and their intrepidity in assuming risk help lower the bid-ask spread of a certain asset. Speculation itself is not demonstrably malevolent, but is an intrinsic component of a functioning asset market. But at many junctions in history, as Chancellor prolifically demonstrates, excessive speculation had reached a point wherein prices had ceased to serve as useful signals of the intrinsic value of an asset.

Chancellor contends that speculative activities, at their crescendo, are intrinsically irrational, and convincingly argues that asset markets all too often went to excess. The potential for amassing gains through trading and speculation are nearly limitless, yet the social cost of market collapse due to manipulation and abuse cannot be ignored.

The book in effect questions the dogma regarding the seemingly omniscient ability of free markets to assign prices to assets, and the ability of prices to serve as an effective signaling mechanism. This is not a new argument. In their 1934 classic "Security Analysis," Dodd and Graham wrote that "[i]t is customary to refer with great respect to the bloodless verdict of the market place, as though it represented invariably the composite judgment of countless shrewd, informed, and calculating minds. Very frequently, however, these appraisals are based on mob psychology, on faulty reasoning, and on the most superficial examination of inadequate information."

Ultimately, however, unfettered speculation may be due to the incontrovertible propensity of people to hitch their wagons to a star, and this propensity is unduly magnified by a "vita brevis" (life is short) mentality. Through this depressingly short--given the significance of the topic--yet highly edifying volume, Chancellor gives us the opportunity to reflect on speculation, which he considers "an anarchic force."

The More Things Change...
That's the central thesis to Edward Chancellor's book on the history of financial booms, busts, swindles, panics and manias: the more things change, the more they stay the same. As a law student taking a few securities classes and a dabbling buy-and-hold investor, the book provides incredible insight into the way markets have worked and failed since they came into existence. Written in chronological order and ending in 1998 as the tech bubble burst, Chancellor is your tour guide to the cheats, robber barrons, over-rated innovations, emerging markets and herd mentality behind financial euphorias and depressions from Holland to Japan, Britain and the States. Chancellor's greatest accomplishment is pointing to the commonalities behind every crash and letting people know how to identify the signals of future bouts of irrational exuberance. The book demands limited sophistication, but the less you know about currency exchanges, derivatives and hedge funds, the more you will be resorting to an online investment dictionary. You will have to learn in order to enjoy this book. Chancellor's subject matter necessarily demands a critique of economic and political theories, and it is clear that he champions Keynes and greater government control over markets. His criticisms of conservative political/ economic philosophies, however, are relatively restrained, intelligent, and do not irritate those of opposing viewpoints. In the end, you may not be thinking on the same page as George Soros, but this book is a great education that may even have you making better investments.

Started a little slow but ended with a bang
At first, I sort of waded through this, but as it moved into the 20th Century, it really got interesting. I highly recommend the book. You realize that the latest boom, from the internet to Enron is nothing new; use useless collateral (stock/land) to finance spurious schemes, pump the price, and watch the suckers pore in.

The section on Japan is awesome. ... Read more

Book Description

As the media grows more ruthless, the role of public relations has become increasingly complex and critical. Savvy businesspeople know that how a company conveys and maintains its image has never been more important­­or more challenging. The Handbook of Strategic Public Relations & Integrated Communications is the definitive guide for communications professionals. Featuring the expertise of the world's foremost public relations and marketing authorities, it is the first book of its kind to combine the art and science of marketing, public relations and communications in one single resource. An indispensable reference guide to the best practices in every industry, this handbook features more than 40 information-packed chapters authored by the best minds in the business and covers cutting-edge tips, topics and techniques such as:

• Crisis management
• Marketing public relations
• Client-agency relationships
• Environmental public relations
• High-tech PR
• And more!

Reviews (5)

A Tough Read
Evidently, this book does not target people starting out in Public Relations. I am a VP of Marketing in a start-up company looking to get some feel for the value of PR. I found this book utterly unintelligible. I was also irritated by the constant reference to 'clarity of communication' - advice that the author clearly ignores. Why is 'plain English' considered to be such a crime? After reading this on a 3 hour flight from Denver to New York, I was none the wiser about PR and given the significant weight of the book, decided to leave it on the plane. This is a text for PR academics.

Wide-Ranging and Super Informative
The Handbook of Strategic Public Relations and Integrated Communications is a thorough piece of work that covers the entire gamut of the public relations industry, from dealing with clients to dealing with the media, from crises to working with marketing.

An extremely useful guide, it is not quite as up-to-date with the latest in the technological age. For that, Michael Levine's Guerrilla PR: Wired is an excellent supplement. Not as wide-ranging as the Handbook, Guerrilla PR: Wired zeroes in on cost-effective public relations strategies and tactics.

The Handbook of Effective Public Relations and Integrated Communications has numerous well-respected members in the public relations and marketing fields contributing their wisdom and experience, letting everyone know what the higher ranking people have learned, the tools to success.

A GREAT BOOK FOR EVERYONE IN THE BUSINESS
The Handbook of Strategic Public Relation & Integrated Communications gives simple and understanding examples for every chapter; It even explains the historical background of public relations which helps a lot to understand the evolution of the PR industry.
The book describes, in a superficial but clear way, every activity in the PR business; From investor relations to crisis management, The Handbook of Strategic Public Relation & Integrated Communications will give the basics for the PR profession.

Excellent resource for new and experienced practitionners!
The Handbook of Strategic Public Relations & Integrated Communications is an excellent resource for both new and experienced PR and communications professionals. You will love it for: the concrete and practical real-world (and all over the world) examples, the original and implementable guidelines and tips, the explanations of the theory (without being too theoretical!), and the thoughtful analysis of future trends by highly respected professionals and academics. If you don't have time to take a course, then read this book!

can't put it down
it is fascinating, informative, interesting to read, and very very very useful. ... Read more

Book Description

Books in Barron's pocket-sized Business Dictionaries series listthousands of specialized terms alphabetically, with concise definitions. Theauthors of books in this series are recognized authorities in their fields.Newly updated editions reflect new technologies and their business applications,as well as recent business trends. This title's new edition has been expandedto a total of more than 7,500 terms, with many of the approximately 600 newentries related to computer and Internet terms as they apply to business. Hereis a fine, alphabetized quick-reference dictionary covering all aspects ofbusiness. It's also a helpful guide for consumers looking to understand theterminology of investment, banking, tax and finance matters, real estateappraisals, and various other consumer-related aspects of business. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent Reference Resource
The "Dictionary of Business Terms" is an excellent reference for business people, educators, and students, alike. While it is relatively small, it provides concise, easy to understand definitions for some 7000 business terms.

Best of all, it can fit quite easily in your pocket. If you are in any way involved in business, this is a must have reference. I would say more, but, hey, it's not like a dictionary has a plot you can comment on.

FINE DESCRIPTIVE DEFINITIONS
Despite its small size, this well-structured dictionary did not stop at defining terms. It gave comprehensive descriptions (and explanations) whenever necessary. Its scope embraced all aspects of business: finance, management, commerce, accounting, and so on.
It is very portable and easy-to-use. Its 7,500 headwords included most terms which users are likely to encounter more often. All the important biz acronyms and jargons were included.
This is one dictionary that I will recommend for both students and business travellers. It is a reliable companion.

Doesn't Add Very Much
Its very useful, but then, if you have the other Barron's dictionaries, it does not add a whole lot of extra heft to your business vocabulary. Would be nice to see a little more diversity in the definitions.

Dictionary Hits the Mark
This book is a great help to anyone needing clear and concise definitions of business terms. The clarity of the writing is especially notable. As a bonus, the font and size of the type as well as the overall size of the book are perfect. It is a good companion for business reading and an excellent addition to any business library.

Excellent Compilation of American Business Terms
This reference is a quick and easy source for numerous business, investment and banking terms. As it mostly covers the American business and banking industries, it is a great help to anyone who must deal with these industries or simply would like to understand them better. This book is a highly recommended investment. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Rabbi Trust
Your a teacher and don't know what a Rabbi Trust is? Shame on you. Look it up and learn it and stop thinking everyone is Anti-Semitic. As a Jewish man I take offense to your comment.

Shilling's Text is Jam Packed
I am using this book for a master's level personnel law course. It covers all the topics quite thoroughly. It might be useful as a quick selective reference tool for HR administrators unfamiliar with one or more of the specialty areas. Some chapters (such as the one on benefits and the one on pensions) might benefit from another look at organization of the material. However, most of the information is accurate, if necessarily streamlined in many areas. Since personnel law now covers several deeply specialized areas, this is not surprising.

Stylistically, the book's sentences are jam-packed with information. This might prove difficult reading for some. In a few cases, a series of issues will be "hidden" by a single sentence that is oversimplified, but this is apparent only to a reader who is familiar with the field. The advantage is that the author has made a very creditable attempt to address all the issues. The author generally avoids drawing temporal or one-sided conclusions, which may mislead in a field that is fraught with disputes. I appreciate the even-handedness of this approach.

One small but annoying detail. On page 220 is a reference to a "rabbi trust". I took offense at the use of this term in the book, without quotation marks. I think later editions should avoid or explain the use of language which is apparently bigoted. In fact, I will recommend that my students not use this term because I can offer no good explanation for its continuance. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Imagine you've finally snagged that long-awaited promotion to the ranks of management and you're suddenly faced with your first official presentation before the boss, first interview with a job applicant, first contact with a "demotivated" subordinate, or first truly critical decision. If there is no one you can comfortably turn to for assistance--a common problem today for many in this position--the Essential Manager's Manual, by consultants-communicators Robert Heller and Tim Hindle, could prove invaluable. This logically organized encyclopedia of leadership fundamentals concisely explains the basic actions required in these and other common corporate scenarios, making it a useful resource for information on business communications, time management, decision-making, and a broad array of personnel issues ranging from motivating a staff to realizing when they are suffering from stress. "Stress can be infectious, so you need to recognize it in others before it affects the people with whom they work (including you). There are many ways of reacting to stress; learn to notice common warning signs so that you have time to decide how to react," begins this representative section, before going on to offer specifics on spotting and mitigating its potential impact.--Howard Rothman ... Read more

Reviews (12)

A Great Book
This book is an excellent choice for both the novice and experienced manager or supervisor. This large volume (864 pages) covers a broad range of topics that will help the seasoned manager refresh his or her memory and provide the beginner with a well-rounded set of skills. It is a well-written book which contains numerous color illustrations and graphics. It is, also an easy and enjoyable read and one of the best books that I have read on this subject. One of the most useful features of the book its organization. It is written in short sections so it that the chapters can be read as used as needed. The chapters are concise and could be used for a short training classes on a variety of topics.

A book that should be on every manager¿s bookshelf
If you are a manager and you want a desk reference that you can turn to, whenever you have a problem or a tricky situation or if you want to polish and fine tune your managerial skills to become a more effective and efficient person then this book is for you. This book deals with most of the managerial functions and activities from communication, time management, decision making, delegation, motivation, team management, meeting management, presentations, negotiation, interviewing, change management and stress management. The book contains a lot of practical tips and self-assessment test that is quite useful. One gets a feeling of achievement while reading the book and doing the exercises. The figures, boxes, layout of the various items make reading a real luxury.

Written is the an easy to read style and presented in the wonderful way only Dorling Kindersley can do, this book is a treat to the eyes and the mind. It is rich in content and is presented in an exquisite manner. It is a book that every book lover will love to have. It is a book that every manager will love to read. It is a book that should be on every manager's bookshelf.

Copyright © 1999, Pegasus Book Club

A REALLY great manual
The book is really amazing. I'm a business administration undergraduate student who bought this book...

Reallly... It IS an very VERY valuable source for both students and managers themselves... I highly recommend it...

Quick Reference!
The manual is trying to cover all the essential areas of management. It is an ideal reference book for those who wants to have a peep into the management field. For those who are in the advanced stage of management this book may serve to refresh the basics.

It is a good book for the entry level personnel in the management field.

Comprehensive!
Robert Heller is a leading authority on management consulting. he was the founding editor of Management Today. He is the author of many acclaimed and worldwide best-selling books including: The Naked Manager, Culture Shock, The Way to Win and The Complete Guide to Modern Management.

If you want to eventually move into a management position or want to reevaluate yourself and see how you can improve on your management skills, then you might want to have a manual of manager's secrets close at hand.

In today's fast-moving business world, organizations are constantly evolving. In an aggressively competitive marketplace, you will be expected to deliver better and better results. The most successful business managers will recognize the need to adapt and change and continually examine the way they work. By developing a wide range of skills and keeping those skills up to date, they will excel in their job.

This guide covers the most important aspects of business life. It covers interpersonal and professional skills. The sections on communication, time management and dealing with stress, contain advice that is applicable to a conventional and unconventional office environment.

In today's office, there is also a range of new technology which has revolutionized the working lives of millions of people around the world. You will find practical advice on all the key areas of business management. The book is fully illustrated and has annotated photographs, charts and flow diagrams. 1,200 quick-reference power tips (like: "Remember that honesty is not the best policy; it is the only policy") cover every management situation. There are checklists, points to remember and do's and don'ts. Case studies help to focus on real-life management problems.

The section on matching an applicant to a job will be helpful to managers who do their own hiring. How do you handle hostility in the office? The sections on body language were right on. You will see pictures of various poses which will "betray" you. I love body language because it shows what people are really thinking.

One thing I always remember was when a new manager comes into an existing team. If they act too controlling without first gaining respect, the team will rebel a bit. It is better to be relaxed, yet confident. This is the type of information you will find and it is very practical. While some managers may already know this information from personal experience, I simply can't imagine anyone would know everything in this comprehensive manual. I think everyone could take away many points which would make them more successful.

As they say: "Avoid people and situations that tempt you to behave in ways you are not happy with. Hey, this book could be great for anyone! I also loved how they said: "You have the right to make genuine mistakes without feeling guilty. You have the right to refuse other people's excessive demands on your life."

I don't know, maybe this isn't only for managers. I sounds like a survival guide to life in the workplace. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Review of The Media Handbook authored by Helen Katz
As a 30+ year senior level media planning professional at the DDB Chicago advertising agency and now as an adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago, I read The Media Handbook by Helen Katz with great interest. Helen Katz is one of the premier media research professionals in the advertising agency business who has an academic as well as a professional background in media planning.

This handbook provides a comprehensive yet highly readable overview of the rapidly changing media planning and buying environment. Not only does the book explain basic media terms and concepts but it also places media in the emerging marketing planning context where media is viewed as a key tool in Integrated Marketing Communications.

It is well laid out organizationally and easy to follow. It also spares the reader volumes of "media math" which can be overwhelming.

The Media Handbook is a valuable reference tool that should be kept by marketing and advertising generalists, media professionals and students as a guide to making intelligent decisions about the role of media in a marketing plan.

Reviewed by Geoff McClelland ... Read more

Book Description

Books in Barron's pocket-sized Business Dictionaries series listthousands of specialized terms alphabetically and present concise definitions.The authors of books in this series are recognized authorities in their fields.Newly updated editions reflect new technologies, their business applications,and recent business trends. This book defines more than 4,200 insurance termsthat should be understood by agents, brokers, actuaries, underwriters, personnelprofessionals dealing with employee-benefit programs, and consumers who need tounderstand the insurance policies they plan to buy. Terminology covers life,health, property, and casualty insurance, as well as retirement plans. This new,heavily updated edition has been expanded with approximately 200 new terms, andupdatings of many other terms to reflect the current state of the insuranceindustry. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Thick Junk
I have been in the insurance industry 15 years and just decided to buy this as an addition for my work desk. I rarely open the book, however, anytime I go to look up a coverage definition it is not listed. This book is of NO use to me. Not really sure who would use this.............a person who hands out maps at the Auto Club who may need to look up a word or two?

Slightly incomplete
For general knowledge of insurance terms I guess this is an adequate dictionary and nevertheless needed for understanding insurance terms. I find however that being IN the insurance business as a newcomer and needing to have all my insurance words defined, this dictionary lacks many terms used, at least on the Life insurance side of it, so leaves me grasping for other sources and references to find these words which should be defined in this dictionary in the first place.

Excellent reference book
This is an American based book but covers every imaginable insurance term, in every sector of the finance/insurance industry. It not only provides definitions of terms but broadley defines the cover provided under different types of insurance. This is a must for any professional in the financial services/insurance industry as a great reference.

Useful handbook
Useful dictionary for people working for a insurance company or other financial institution. ... Read more

Book Description

Broad in scope and rich in detail, This Business of Television is an invaluable sourcebook for producers, writers, broadcasters, network executives, and other television professionals. The essential reference for anyone working in the television or video industries, it is a comprehensive guide to the inner workings of the business, examining how television programming is financed, produced, and distributed; how FCC regulations and federal law shape the form and content of broadcast, cable, and satellite television; and how producers, networks, cable companies, and local stations work together to create or acquire programming.

This Business of Television includes 50 chapters and three useful appendices: legal documents and forms; concise boilerplate contract forms for the most common business transactions in television; and a list of useful industry contacts and addresses. The legal documents and the ready-to-use contract forms are included on an enclosed disc, so they can be easily accessed for home use.

Part 1 covers distribution; Parts 2 and 3 explain FCC and federal regulations, as well as legal concepts such as copyright, the right of privacy, libel and slander, and the protection of society; Part 4 discusses program production and financing; Part 5 examines audience measurement and advertising; Part 6 explains contract basis, legal entities, and tax issues; and Part 7 offers an overview of the television industries in countries around the world.

All of the chapters have been revised and completely updated in this second edition, in addition to brand new chapters on religious television, home shopping, satellite TV, and the every more important international marketplace. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

On the whole, I was disappointed.
I was looking for an introductory book on the business of television. This book assumes that you know a few things already. It explains beginners concepts but it doesn't go out of its way to clearly explain them. I didn't understand the relationship between affiliates and networks. This book claims to explain it clearly, but it doesn't. Right now I don't even know where the affiliates get their money from. I was a bit disappointed because the other reviews showed promise, and the title too.

The best words to describe it are, as used above, a 'resource', a 'comprehensive' and 'practical' guide. The book really doesn't go out of its way to explain concepts to you. If you are looking for an introduction to the business of television, this is probably not the best place to start.

Stolen 3 times... This book is hot!!!
This book is so hot that it's been stolen from my office library 3 times. I'm on my 4th purchase of this book. I felt like I could have an intellegent conversation about any aspect of the television business after using this book. It is my main resource for getting quick answers that are easy to understand. This is required reading for those getting started and a great resource for those that have been in the industry a while. It also includes a computer disk containing forms such as U.S. Copyright registration and others found in the book that you can import to your word processor.

Ron Hebert
Producer
2002 Emmy Awards - Pacific Southwest Chapter

Imagine the Future, Study the Past
This Business of Television is a landmark volume in our practice (entertainment industry economic forecasting) for three reasons.

Reason # 3: it is incredible that guys of this stature would take the time to compile such an essential and complete perspective of the television business. Goodenough, a seasoned entertainment lawyer, law professor, and a scholar pioneering the study of law and evolutionary biology, brings the structure and rigor, while Blumenthal, a prolific TV, multimedia, and online entertainment producer and businessman brings the been-there-done-that street savvy.

Reason # 2: it is, after all, the business that pays for the content (the subscriber, pay-per-view, advertising, syndication, and the latest, e-commerce revenue models) and the content that drives the migration to new technology (streaming media webcasting and video-on-demand, interactive TV, and wireless). The clear understanding of the financial systems supporting television and video entertainment offered by Oliver and Howard in this book facilitates the modeling of future monetary transactions.

Reason # 1: video programming spread from broadcast to cable and then to satellite in one generation. The last decade found it spreading to the PC via CD-ROM, DVD, and broadband Internet. In the future it will be found on our cell phones, wristwatches, car seat backs, and refrigerators. There will be innovations in business arrangements along the way, but those who cannot converse in the basic economics will be doomed.

This segues into a jacket quote by Morty Morton, former producer of the Late Show with David Letterman, who remarked, "This Business of Television has gotten me through years of moderate success in the TV business. I'm now ready to burn the damn thing and open a restaurant."

This book is gold!
Our start-up entertainment company has used the first edition as our essential reference book. We have not found anything else like it. We are excited about ordering the second edition.

Solid and comprehensive.
The first edition was handy, detailed, and filled with suggestions on where to find further information. I'm glad the revised edition includes a disk. Highly recommended for anyone in the television, video, or CD-ROM production business. And not a bad price, considering the cost of other texts. ... Read more

Book Description

This updated and expanded edition of a valuable handbook for home buyers and sellers defines and explains more than 2,500 real estate terms related to mortgages and financing, brokerage law, architecture, rentals and leases, property insurance, and much more. The text is supplemented with more than 200 line illustrations plus graphs, charts, and tables. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Articulate
An excellent refrence guide with an example at every turn of the page to assist with grasping the meaning of terms by relating the to real world sernarios.

Excellent Resource
This book and previous editions have been an excellent resource for us in understanding real estate terms, especially in contracts and negotiations.

Good Reference
Good resource for all. Has detailed definitions and helpful, although simplistic, examples. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Susan Scott believes that interpersonal difficulties--at work and at home--are a direct result of our inability to communicate well. Fierce Conversations is based on principles from her international consulting practice, in which she teaches executives how to conduct such exchanges more dynamically and ultimately more effectively, thereby improving the relationships they enjoy with their various dialogue partners "one conversation at a time." Using identifiable anecdotes from her experience to inspire and inform, along with a series of practical exercises designed to impart the requisite skills, Scott walks readers through the individual steps she's developed to build better associations through more robust and honest discourses. Addressing all aspects of the process, from several methods for listening more attentively to specific ways she's fashioned to confront and resolve issues "that stand between you and success," Scott offers the type of concrete advice and confidence-building counsel that should help even the most reticent improve their communication skills dramatically. --Howard Rothman ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Fierce as in True
If we have ever needed a book like this, now is the time. Just think what could have happened at Enron, WorldCom, etc. if people had been willing to talk to each other about what was really going on? This is both a "think about this" and a "here's how to use it" book that can give people the courage and tools to tell others what they are seeing and believing. Don't be put off by the title, Fierce does not mean you get to beat everyone up - it really is an invitation to, as the author says - interrogate reality. Susan Scott does an effective job in weaving her three big ideas about conversations through the book. The ideas are simple yet powerful and can change the way we talk both to ourselves and to others. She captured me right away with the first concept; that our lives (and work) succeed or fail one conversation at a time, including those conversations we don't have. The book is an easy read. The concepts are clearly presented both in theory and with amusing stories and, best of all, there are practical tips on how to use the information. I enjoyed reading it and putting the principles into action. I'll be giving copies to friends and colleagues. This is one of those books that belongs both at home and the office.

A Fierce (robust) Book
Fierce Conversation starts with the premise that "the conversation is the relationship" and we must have Fierce (robust) Conversation's in all of our relationships -- business and personal. It is far more encompassing then other recent conversation books on how to have "crucial" or "critical" conversations only.

It's a guidebook on how to make relationships meaningful and successful. It's simplicity of focusing on "one conversation at a time" avoids the pitfall of a relationship deteriorating in Scott's words "slowly then suddenly".

It's a book whose processes I am able to put into action immediately. I can readily see how starting with one conversation at a time will lead to mastery and enrich relationships. The examples are vivid and easy to visualize and remember.

I actually look forward to having Fierce Conversations with my colleagues, customers, employees, and family.

I highly recommend Fierce Conversations.

Philip E. Fine
Chief Executive Officer
Premier Distribution Services, Inc.
Somerset, NJ

What are you pretending not to know?
Most breakdowns in life have some connection to conversations -- conversations not had, conversations that go poorly, or conversations not yet even imagined. There are a number of good books on conversations and this is one of them.

I tend to refer my coaching clients to "Fierce Conversations" when they are having trouble getting motivated and avoid a lot of uncomfortable conversations (compared to recommending other books for those who botch difficult conversations).

Susan's section on "stump speeches" is good for gaining clarity on personal vision (i.e., where are you going, why, who is going with you, and how will you get there?).

Once clear on "where you are going," it's time to start noticing and speaking about what "you're pretending not to know" (otherwise known as breakdowns -- yours or others).

Although "Fierce Conversations" doesn't cover the underlying emotions like "Difficult Conversations" or "Nonviolent Communications" do, or the styles under stress (silence or violence) as "Crucial Conversations" does, it does have some good discussion on "interrogating reality" (with an emphasis on questions and remaining curious) and identifying your own role in conversational breakdowns.

Fierce, difficult, crucial, nonviolent -- whatever you call these conversations, they're at the core of all meaningful relationships. I can definitely recommend "Fierce Conversations" to the mix of books on skillful conversations.

Packed With Knowledge!
This book offers numerous useful principles that will help anyone become a better conversationalist and a more responsive listener. Read carefully because gems of very valuable content are scattered through the entire book, a sentence here, a quotation there, buried in long, interesting digressions about the author's life, people she's known and clients she's worked with over time. A judicious editor could have made a very sharp and effective pocket book out of this material, which is about managing intense, strong discussions with skill. As it is, you'll have to do some digging, but you'll have a perfectly good time doing it, particularly if you are a fan of New Age mantras and can handle a little touchy-feely vocabulary. We assure you that the lessons you'll learn about conversations - including fierce ones - will stand you in good stead.

Not as Helpful as "Difficult Conversations."
I listened to both this and "Difficult Conversations." I found that "Diffiicult Conversations" offered much more helpful, concrete advice, and the material was much better organized. I was disappointed that the emphasis of "Firece Conversatons" was almost entirely on business related conversations. Example after example focused on her executive clients. After listening to this program, I felt no more prepared for conversations with friends and family than before. There were a few helpful ideas, but they were presented much more clearly in "Difficult Conversations." "Difficult Conversations" gave me real, practical strategies that have made a big difference in my ease in bringing up tricky conversations and working through them with positive results. ... Read more

Book Description

The ultimate insider's guide to getting into the nation's most competitive colleges

Written by a former senior admissions officer at Harvard University, this book provides keen insights into what it takes to get into America's top schools. With the help of case studies of successful Harvard applicants, Charles Hughes II defines the goals and mission of highly selective schools. He explains the relative weight given to:

*Academics
*Extra-curricular activities
*Personal qualities
*Intangibles in the admission process

Hughes breaks down the components of the application, explaining the significance of each and how they are evaluated. And, drawing upon his extensive experience, he clues readers in on effective ways for applicants to improve their candidacy, including:

*How to prepare early in high school
*How to write a better application
*How to find the school best suited to their interests, personality, and goals

With this essential guide, students will be able to present their talents in the best light possible, and create a winning college application. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

The Only Admissions Guide You'll Need
As a private admissions consultant, I've bought and read MANY admission advice books over the years.

"What It Really Takes to Get Into the Ivy League & Other Highly Selective Colleges" is my new all-round favorite!

Mr. Hughes has distilled his years of Harvard admissions experience into an invaluable "how to" book. With statistics, facts, anecdotes and wisdom - he covers the range of issues that will face a student aspiring to a highly selective college.

This highly readable, logically organized book gives college-bound teens and their parents the tools to guide their steps, make informed choices and optimize the likelihood of admission to the school of their choice.

I particularly liked his:
analysis and advice of what is required to be a competitive Ivy League candidate
explanation of how applications are read and evaluated by Admissions
case studies, applying those principles to 5 recent Harvard graduates.

You can't take the challenge out of applying to selective colleges - but Mr. Hughes takes the mystery out of it.

I will be recommending "What It Really Takes to Get Into the Ivy League & Other Highly Selective Colleges" liberally to ALL my clients - not just the Ivy league bound.

A confident ride down the rapids
This is an insider's guide to getting into the best schools. He doesn't give you any attitude, just a solid how-to program for giving your kid (or yourself) the best possible chance of admission. It's also the shortest guide to college admissions I know.

With three kids in school, I'm about to spend ten years navigating the whitewater of college applications (and don't even talk to me about the money!) Hughes is a confident and well-informed guide down the rapids. Good book!

Great College Admisssions Planning Tool
I really enjoyed reading the book and getting a better understanding of what my daughter should be focusing on as she enters her senior year. The book gave me a great perspective on trying to build a stronger extracurricular resume in the super competititve college admissions world today. I also went to his company's website Road To College www.roadtocollege.com to register for their newsletter. I hope this gives me a fraction of what I learned from the book.

Great read and insight!!!
This was a great read. With so many students focused on staying in school in Arizona, it is hard to get any insight into the selective college admissions processes of colleges outside of the state. I'll be better prepared for selecting senior courses and planning this summer thanks to his honest and straightforward advice.

You Need to BUY This Book NOW if You Want to Get In!!!
With What It Really Takes to Get Into Ivy League and Other Highly Selective Colleges, Mr. Chuck Hughes has written THE book on college admissions. The bottom line is that you need this book if you want to be admitted to an Ivy League school or other competitive institution (Stanford, MIT, CalTech, Williams, Amherst, Duke, etc.). He knows college admissions. By presenting anecdotes from his days in the office as well as a series of case studies to show how you will compare to admitted applicants, Mr. Hughes sets out to achieve one simple goal:
helping his patrons submit the best possible application in order to give them the best possible chance of gaining admittance to the college of their dreams. He succeeds masterfully and with a straightforward approach that is quite refreshing to the reader.

While purchasing this book will not guarantee acceptance, it is the best step you can take toward getting into to the school of your dreams. If you read the entire book, you will learn the tricks of the trade and how to submit an application which will present you in the best possible light to the discerning eyes of the admissions committee. In fact, I would recommend purchasing two copies, one to read and mark-up and another to keep under your pillow in the hopes that an osmosis of information will occur overnight while you sleep. :) Good luck to all applicants and pick up this book today! ... Read more

Book Description

Every day, in every way, you can get just a little more organized in just a few minutes.

For instance, when you take your clothes off, hang them up or put them in the laundry. Throw out that pile of mail-order catalogs you still haven't flipped through. Limit yourself to saving one tote-bag-full of housecleaning rags.

The One-Minute Organizer Plain & Simple is the perfect handbook for busy people who don't have time for a top-to-bottom purge or a complete organizational overhaul. Instead Donna Smallin provides 500 fast and innovative ways anybody can become a bit more organized . . . right now. Each tip delivers instant gratification, makes your world a little less cluttered, and brings you one step closer to a more orderly life.

Smallin inspires readers by showing how much can be accomplished with an investment of no more than 15 minutes a day. Her quick solutions address such common troubles as paper clutter, household chores that never get done, bills that are always paid late, and schedules that never go quite as smoothly as planned. Every tip is accompanied by a time estimate of 1, 5, 10, or 15 minutes.

These days, when everybody is playing a game of catch-up, The One-Minute Organizer Plain & Simple offers busy people 500 quick organizational fixes that will reduce some of the chaos and bring a little calm into a frenetic world. ... Read more

Book Description

The administrative professional's guide to the modern office.

This revised and updated Third Edition provides the office worker with practical advice on how to survive and thrive in today's fast-paced business environment. Written by business specialists, it has detailed information on standard office practices, with special emphasis on electronic communications and information technology.

• Produced under the sponsorship and direct supervision of IAAP, International Association of Administrative Professionals
• Provides up-to-date information on the electronic office, simplifying complex tasks and procedures
• Indispensable for office personnel at every level; self-employed workers; consultants; and entrepreneurs ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The only office manual you will ever need!
Finally! No endless searching through a gazillion books to get the information you need to be a top notch admin professional. This book is so comprehensive. It covers every topic possible from grammar to career development. I think this should be available in every office in America! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An excellent practical tool.
This book is an excellent practical tool to gain understanding on how the Production Sharing Contracts/ Agreements of the international oil industry work and how the negotiations on PSA normally flow. Johnston does not concentrate on cultural aspects of a particular country, but rather on the mechanics of the PSA and its major issues. The topics that Johnston covers are "Petroleum Fiscal Systems," "Concessionary Systems," "Production Sharing Contracts," "Risk Service Contracts," "Threshold Field Size Analysis," "Global Market for Exploration Acreage," "Production Sharing Contract Outline" "Accounting Principles," and "Double Taxation." This introductory comprehensive overview of PSA concepts is written in a clear and understandable manner so that even a person without a background in accounting, taxation, and oil engineering is able to understand the author's explanations and conclusions. This source will be most helpful to consult if one is interested in learning or simply clarifying the concepts of exploration economics, oil taxation, contract/fiscal terms, and PSA negotiations in the international context. ... Read more

Book Description

Test Your Knowledge with the Ideal Companion Workbook to the #1 Guide to Corporate Valuation!

This professional workbook and study guide is the ideal complement to the bestselling Valuation, the definitive guide to measuring, managing, and maximizing a company’s value. The Valuation Workbook allows you to self-test your knowledge before putting it to work in real-world situations. A clearly organized parallel volume to Valuation, the Workbook:

• Walks you through the text, chapter by chapter
• Tests your comprehension and calculation skills with multiple choice questions and problems that help you practice applying the principles in the book
• Covers multibusiness, dot.com, bank, and insurance company valuation, as well as the ins and outs of valuing cyclical companies and option pricing methods

Along with a complete answer key, the Workbook also covers such essentials as what drives value creation, value metrics, M&As and joint ventures, valuation frameworks, how to analyze historical information, estimating the cost of capital and continuing value, forecasting performance, and calculating results. Brief chapter summaries reinforce major points.

The Valuation Workbook makes Valuation a more valuable business reference than ever before.

Please visit us at www.WileyValuation.com

WileyValuation.com is a premier Web site devoted to all things valuation. At this unique online community for financial professionals, you will enjoy the following features:

• New information on valuation topics and links to key valuation sites
• Valuation message boards and chats
• Downloadable valuation spreadsheets

Reviews (2)

Excellent Companion!
This workbook is a great companion to the bestselling Valuation book by McKinsey. A well organized resource that includes exercises and Q&A. The basic principle allows you to self-test your information and knowledge base. Understanding the valuation process can be challenging at times. This workbook is a great tool to help guide you through the process. I also use it as a quick reference problem solver.

Don't bother--save your money!
I had given 5 stars to "Valuation," but I feel that this workbook is practically useless for its price. The problems in this book are not very challenging; they merely require echoed answers instead of questions providing in-depth analysis. Common questions include: "Name three issues in valuating X company" or "Name three reasons why X is preferred over B." These are simple questions one could easily answer by taking copious notes. I had expected much more challenging questions from the workbook, but I was sorely disappointed. My advice: Buy "Valuation" but avoid buying this book. ... Read more

Book Description

In a nutshell, this book is about systems. This book is written for those thinkers and practitioners who have come to realize that while the whole is becoming more and more interdependent parts display choice and behave independently, and that paradoxes are the most potent challenge of emergent realities.

With a practical orientation and yet a profound theoretical depth, the book offers an operational handle on the whole by introducing an elaborate scheme called iterative design. The iterative design explicitly recognizes that choice is at the heart of human development. Development is the capacity to choose; design is a vehicle for enhancement of choice and holistic thinking. 'Designers', in this book, seek to choose rather than predict the future. They try to understand rational, emotional, and cultural dimensions of choice and to produce a design that satisfies a multitude of functions. They learn how to use what they already know and also about how to learn what they need to know.




The imperative of interdependency, the necessity of reducing endless complexities, and the need to produce manageable simplicities require a different mode of thinking, a holistic frame of reference that would allow us to focus on the relevant issues and avoid the endless search for more details while drowning in proliferating information. While organizations as a whole are becoming more and more interdependent the parts display choice and behave independently. This is the dilemma this book tries to resolve. It is a unique, cutting edge work, with a practical orientation and yet a profound theoretical depth, which goes far beyond what is currently available.

Leading edge systems thinking and practice that goes far beyond what is currently available
It deals with the whole, both conceptually and practically, written in a reader-friendly style
Five real cases cited to demonstrate practical application of theories discussed ... Read more

Reviews (12)

A necessary addition to any systems library
Gharajedaghi's book will become one of the cornerstones of systems thinking. It presents basic systems concepts in a comprehensive and understandable manner. It then shows how these concepts should be applied to the design of organizations that wish to thrive in the "new world" environment. The book begins with theory, then moves to the nuts-and-bolts of organization architecture. Afterwards, it provides detailed case studies of the work done in organizations from a range of social sectors - health care, power, equipment manufacturing, hotel/motel/resort, community development -- to demonstrate the generic quality of the systems approach. The book might take extra effort for the novice, but it is the kind of work that students keep coming back to again and again as light bulbs go on in their heads. Gharajedaghi has made an important contribution.

The book is needed in every person's hip pocket,now!
Gharajedaghi's book is not only a necessary addition to any systems library, but a MUST for everyone's hip pocket - whether doctor, lawyer, cleric, business person, nurse, educator and human being living now. Gharajedaghi has provided the conceptual framework and operational methodology in an exceptionally readable, and very useable text. This book is not the typical "how to" book, giving steps to follow; but provides the depth theory and background necessary for user UNDERSTANDING now, and frees the user to design and create interventions well into the 21st century. If you are interested in "making sense" out of the chaos and complexity around you; if you are interested in providing the necessary structure, process, and function that equates to a new business architecture in your environment, then you have found the best resource in this book. It is most inclusive, it goes from A to Z, and further you will not find as comparable and complete a resource anywhere, for it readys you for the 21st century. Thus check your hip pocket, and add SYSTEMS THINKING: MANAGING CHAOS AND COMPLEXITY:A PLATFORM FOR DESIGNING BUSINESS ARCHITECTURE, if necessary.

Practical systems thinking!
I have just reread Mr. Gharajedaghi's book. It is a very thoughtful and engaging review of systems thinking placed in the context of other world views in Modern Times. It is occasionally and with good humor spiced with thoughts from Persia, as well as from the author's direct experience with Russell Ackoff. It ties together thoughts on Business Process Management with larger views on gathering consensus, resolving conflict, engaging in beauty, and managing for profit. It is an ambitious undertaking and succeeds with great integrity.

Systems thinking applied to perfection
This is a book about changing the way we usually think. It goes beyond simply proposing systems thinking to delve into the art of managing complexity (as the title mentions).

The book is in fact divided into two portions. The first is an in depth description of systems thinking, a somewhat dry read, given the extreme density of the subject. The second is a number of case studies with which the author was involved. This section, in my opinion, is the most interesting part of the book, as Gharajedaghi shows us how he applies, in practice, what he preaches. There is one story in particular, about the Oneida indian nation, that is simply delightful; I believe it yields significant lessons for anyone seeking to work with development, but is locked into a purely economic standpoint.

The best of the best!
This book has taught me more than the $50,000 top 25 MBA program I am just finishing. It is unbelievably rich. You will find yourself turning each page amazed at the depth of insights presented. I honestly can't think of a business book that I would recommend more. ... Read more

Book Description

Fourth edition of this top selling real estate book. Nemmar Real Estate Training is ranked as one of the most exclusive real estate appraisal and home inspection training services since 1988.Our top selling products have taught thousands of real estate professionals and homeowners nationwide. You too can learn everything you need to know about Real Estate - from Asbestos to Zoning. With this knowledge you will save thousands of dollars when you buy, sell, or renovate your home. You will also learn how to eliminate safety hazards and properly maintain a home. Statistics show an average savings of at least $4,700.00 per home for customers who have read our books. Both of our books are the number one seller’s in the Real Estate Appraisal and Home Inspection categories nationwide and they have been called the "Bible" of the real estate industry.

Don't let your dream house be a nightmare in disguise! Everything you need to know about Real Estate - from Asbestos to Zoning. This is definitely the best real estate appraisal book on the market. Every aspect of real estate appraising is covered with precise steps to follow. Written by Guy Cozzi who has decades of experience as a licensed appraiser, home inspector, consultant, and real estate investor. This top selling author has been quoted as a real estate expert by the New York Times and many other publications. He has been a guest speaker on real estate investment TV shows for years. Guy Cozzi has taught thousands of people how to inspect, appraise and invest in real estate and provides advice to many banks and mortgage lenders.

The real facts other books don't tell you! You’ll learn everything that your Realtor doesn't want you to know. Realtors "sugar coat" the negative market value problems in a house in order to close the deal and get paid their sales commission. This is unquestionably the only book of its kind that teaches you how to prevent those pitfalls. You get information that the professionals use to make you an educated consumer enabling you to negotiate a much better price on the purchase, renovation, or sale of your home. Whether you are looking to become an appraiser or just to buy or sell your home, this book has it all.

Do you really know the true market value of your home?This fourth edition "A to Z Appraiser" book will assist you with the biggest investment of your life - your own home! This was originally designed to train top-notch, professional appraisers and is now available at a price affordable to everyone. All homes need to be inspected and appraised for safety hazards and routine maintenance.

Crucial Advice to Assist You: This book tells you the truth, unlike others that gloss over the hard facts. Aspects of appraising and real estate investment that tell you the realities so you don't walk into it with your eyes closed. This information will be invaluable to you in a home purchase, sale or ownership.

Safety Concerns: Eliminate safety hazards to make your home safe for you and your family. Help prevent accidents before they happen! Learn how to identify lethal carbon monoxide problems, unsafe electrical wiring, lead poisoning hazards, asbestos and radon health concerns, explosive gas leaks, oil tanks, termites, and much more.

In-Depth Appraisal Topics: You'll learn every aspect of the real estate appraisal business. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this book is easy to read and understand. Get all of the important information you need in just one book. Never buy, sell or renovate a home without this!

This book has many pages of photos, graphs, illustrations and sample appraisal reports that show potential market value adjustments found when buying or selling a home. By identifying any negative aspects before you buy or sell, you'll be able to negotiate a much better price.

224 pages with 8.5"x11" dimensions. This book and the home inspection videos in the "Real Estate from A to Z" series are now being offered at a very large discount via the Internet compared to our normal professional training school prices. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

As a licensed appraiser I was VERY impressed with this book.
My career has been real estate appraisals for over 17 years now and I can confidently say that I have read at least 50 books on the topic of how to appraise real estate. This book was very impressive in the content and the layout and how everything is explained by the author. If you are a beginner or have many years of experience appraising homes (like me), you will be very happy if you read this book. Everything from the basics of the business, to details on the Direct Sales Comparison Approach, the Cost Approach, and the Income Approach, to details on how to make money as a real estate appraiser in your own business, are all covered very well and explained clearly - for beginners or experienced real estate professionals.
There were many additional topics covered by this book that I have not found in other appraisal books that I have read. Some of these topics were aspects of the business that would take you many years to learn and come across, or at least I know that was my experience in this business. There is good, detailed information about the type of appraisal accounts you can get to earn money in this business.
If you are a non-appraiser just looking for a book with a great overall explanation of how to appraise your own home or condominium, then this is the book for you. You'll find the book is detailed and easy to read and understand. What you learn should save you thousands of dollars in headaches and time by not making the mistakes that the book will warn you about. It's always better to learn from experienced appraisers, like myself or a book like this, since they will help you prevent making many errors when you buy or sell your house. You cannot rely on your real estate agent or broker since I can tell you from many years of experience - they don't know anything about how to determine the value of a house or condo the way a professional appraiser can do it. I hope this review is helpful to you. Happy house shopping if you're a home buyer! Good luck on your appraisal exam if you're an appraiser buying the book to help with getting your license.

Found this to be just what I was looking for.
Overall the book covers many aspects of real estate appraising and the business of appraisers. I bought the book since it was recommended to me by a friend who is an appraiser. The book first teaches some of the basics of the appraisal business and then goes into an abbreviated version of how to inspect a home. The inspection process and advice given is necessary since there are many aspects of a home that need to be evaluated to prop