More than 11,000 business books are published every year—an overwhelming choice for busy professionals. Therefore, in partnership with getAbstract, Training brings you March’s top three business books recommended to our readers.
“The Big Book of HR” by Barbara Mitchell and Cornelia Gamlem (Career Press, 2017, 352 pages, ISBN: 9781632650894; $21.99)
In one volume, consultants Barbara Mitchell and Cornelia Gamlem attempt to capture all facets of Human Resources work, from the mundane and transactional to the strategic and creative. They use templates, case histories, and samples to provide a useful guide to the basics. The authors range through planning, recruitment, hiring, firing, talent development, and performance management. They make excellent points about engaging, retaining, and inspiring people, but fall short on strategic HR and talent management. getAbstract recommends this basic manual to those new to HR or those with HR responsibilities in firms that lack designated HR divisions. Mitchell and Gamlem’s descriptions of U.S. regulations and laws governing personnel management also make this a worthwhile read for managers in operational HR.
Rating (out of 10): 7
Applicability: 8
Innovation: 6
Style: 7
“Culture Hacker. Reprogramming Your Employee Experience to Improve Customer Service, Retention, and Performance” by Shane Green (Wiley, 2017, 224 pages, ISBN: 9781119405726; $29.34)
If your employees aren’t happy, your customers won’t be happy. If your employees are unhappy, they’ll leave, and so will your customers. Consultant Shane Green explains how the best corporate culture can catapult a firm to the top. Green comes from the hotel and hospitality industry—specifically, from Ritz-Carlton Hotels. That’s where he learned to put employees first and that if you don’t take care of your people, they won’t take care of your clients. In this intelligent manual, Green expertly explains why employee well-being should be your top goal as a leader. He uses detailed case histories to illustrate why firms with strong corporate cultures are more likely to succeed. To help you reach that target, he explains how to develop a culture that sustains your employees, makes them proud to do their jobs, and helps them love coming to work. getAbstract recommends Green’s instructive book to all executives.
Rating (out of 10): 7
Applicability: 9
Innovation: 6
Style: 7
“The Only Sales Guide You’ll Ever Need” by Anthony Iannarino (Portfolio, 2016, 225 pages, ISBN: 9780735211674; $27)
The popular image of a salesperson as a fast-talking, manipulative hustler with a big, phony smile has become ridiculous. Contemporary super-tough, seen-it-all buyers wouldn’t let such a slickster in the door. Top salespeople today are likable, confident, impressive business professionals of good character. They don’t try to manipulate anyone; instead, the best salespeople influence their prospects as business problem solvers who merit attention and respect. Sales master Anthony Iannarino’s company book details the nine mind-set traits and eight skill sets salespeople need now. And he’s organized his clear lists for easy reference. getAbstract recommends his informative, useful manual to sales professionals and sales managers.
Rating (out of 10): 8
Applicability: 9
Innovation: 6
Style: 8
For five-page summaries of these and more than 15,000 other titles, visit http://www.getabstract.com/affiliate/trainingmagazine
