The Edge for July 2021
It’s summer reading season, so we asked business executives to share with us the books that have motivated and inspired them, along with the lessons they gained. Here is what they said:
How to Get Your Point Across Without Provoking a Negative Response
The best business book I have read is Crucial Conversations, by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler and Emily Gregory. The authors assert that mastering the skills in this book will help you to improve your personal and professional relationships; control your emotions; and increase your influence in any organization and at home. This book equips you with skills needed to talk about almost anything with just about anyone. For me, the effect has been an increase in trust and candor. Mastering these skills will always be a work in progress, however I’ve learned to get my point across without provoking a negative response, and making the other person feel heard and respected even when we disagree.”
– Claude Richardson, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Delta Dental of New Jersey
Focus on Giving Rather than Receiving, and Influence Will Follow
My favorite business book is The Go Giver by Bob Burg and David Mann. The book was given to me by my partner Frank Giantomasi. Upon reading it, I realized that I was already following many of the philosophies in the book. The book provides five laws for “Stratospheric Success,” which are based upon the theory that success can best be measured in the value you provide to others. By focusing on what one gives rather than on what one receives, compensation and influence will follow. Giving includes helping others make connections. I have found this to be true in my approach to clients, co-workers and life.
– Dennis M. Toft, Chair, Environmental Law Group, Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC
Building Coalitions, and Finding Comfort in Compromise
The best business book I have read is The Gumbo Coalition by Marc Morial. It highlights the importance of building a team of trusted allies who can disagree at times but agree to execute for the common good. It also discusses the value in building coalitions that will help to move difficult projects forward; and finding comfort in compromise.
– Dale Favors, Managing Partner, Adaptive Growth Leadership
