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These are: Live a life of undivided integrity; Always demonstrate a positive attitude; Consider other people's interests as more important than your own; and Don't settle for anything less than excellence.In my view these are sound principles, although many influential people don't seem to follow them. The book is a "parable", in which a highly successful business person explains to a young protege in words and by actions what "influence" is and how you can get it. "The kind of person you are is what determines your influence, which in turn is what determines your success," according to Chris Widener in this book. The ostentatious wealth displayed by Bobby Gold in the story arguably is incompatible with the third principle. It is a short book at 106 pages with only 24-25 lines per page, but it is quite engaging and I had no trouble in reading it in one sitting.The hero of the book is the tenth richest man in America, a flamboyant and self-confident character of the type which Americans are much prone to admiring, predictably named "Bobby Gold". However, once you have got over the implication that ostentatious wealth is a primary indicator of a person with highly refined leadership skills, the actual principles of influence espoused in the book are quite interesting. The principles seem to apply for a person who is influential in a good way. A person who is influential in a bad way might replace the principles with: Live a life of undivided ambition; Always demonstrate a determined attitude; Tell other people that you are considering their interests; and Don't settle for anything less than what you want.
Always demonstrate a positive attitude3. The Art of Influence is heartwarming and inspiring book intended to encourage you to challenge yourself and become the best you can be. Consider other people's interests as more important than your own4. While most books on business relate to developing skills, the author feels that what's missing are books related to developing one's character, and character development is the focus of this book.And while Cialdini's book on influence deals with psychological traits that influence human behavior, and what will make others act in different ways, the author of this book would define that as "persuasion", and reserves the term "infuence" for how you infuence others by who you are as a human being.Through a parable, this book teaches four lessons of influence: 1. Live a life of undivided integrity2. Don't settle for anything less than excellenceEven though the focus of this parable are billionaires, this book will most likely appeal primarily to people who want to grow spiritually, and not just materially. It encourages you to keep on working on yourself and strive to be your best and do your best whatever comes your way.
If you're looking for the "science" and technical know-how of influence then this is probably not the best book for you.If you are looking for a short read/listen that makes you feel good and gives you the short and sweet of influence, then this is a must. People may proclaim that the story is unrealistic or fantasy. and it absolutely is. However, the moral of the story is sound and it delivers personal development in a different way that's designed to make you feel good while you soak up the valuable lessons.I will definitely be listening to this again.
If this book can get published ANY book can get published. Wow. I can't believe someone is asking money for this book. I've ready better stories from grade school students.This is what I call a "bathroom book" you can read it while.well you know. Don't even bother getting it from the library there are so many other good books out there.
One the one hand, one got the facts, the knowledge, how to do business. The other most important part of doing business, is the Art of Influence, people do business with. yes people.A very 'light' story which explains the 4 points by Chris Widener.Most definately worth the read, which triggered my interest in reading more on these subjects.
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