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 Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
A Godsend...., 07 Nov 2007
I am new to investing in property and found the that book answered many of the questions that I had in relation to investing in the property market.
It is written in a clear and intelligent way with many helpful tips.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
A Godsend...., 07 Nov 2007
I am new to investing in property and found the that book answered many of the questions that I had in relation to investing in the property market.
It is written in a clear and intelligent way with many helpful tips.
Spot on B&B practical guide, 05 Aug 2008
This book really was a great find. Full of practical advice about setting up a B&B covering all the things I needed to know and right up to date too! It's real strength is in it's presentation which is so simple and clear to read. The author is a genius.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone thinking about setting up a B&B or to anyone already running a B&B.
Just what we needed, 02 May 2006
We found this book very useful, it gave us simple guidance where we were unsure and even answered questions we had not yet thought about.
We had wanted to start a B&B but had always been put-off, as it seemed a bit too daunting and complicated. Now, having worked through this thoughtful book, we feel ready to take the first steps.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
A Godsend...., 07 Nov 2007
I am new to investing in property and found the that book answered many of the questions that I had in relation to investing in the property market.
It is written in a clear and intelligent way with many helpful tips.
Spot on B&B practical guide, 05 Aug 2008
This book really was a great find. Full of practical advice about setting up a B&B covering all the things I needed to know and right up to date too! It's real strength is in it's presentation which is so simple and clear to read. The author is a genius.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone thinking about setting up a B&B or to anyone already running a B&B.
Just what we needed, 02 May 2006
We found this book very useful, it gave us simple guidance where we were unsure and even answered questions we had not yet thought about.
We had wanted to start a B&B but had always been put-off, as it seemed a bit too daunting and complicated. Now, having worked through this thoughtful book, we feel ready to take the first steps.
A Revelation for Those Who Believe Efficient Markets and Good Regulation Exist, 31 Jul 2008
David Einhorn is a man who believes in checking out companies carefully. When he saw that Allied Capital wasn't following accounting rules and was making lots of bad loans, he smelled an opportunity to make money as the company collapsed. After investing, he had an opportunity to share his idea at a charity event. Allied Capital's stock quickly dropped in response.
This book describes six years of battling to get the story out of what he had learned, to persuade regulators to crack down on Allied Capital so the rules would be followed, and to stop any illegal activities at Allied Capital. The book is written from Mr. Einhorn's perspective.
Along the way, Allied Capital decided that it had to discredit Mr. Einhorn's allegations and his motives.
After many years of battling, Mr. Einhorn learned a number of important lessons:
1. Policing small capitalization companies is a low priority for reporters, analysts, institutional investors, and regulators.
2. If a company keeps paying a dividend (even if it's not smart to do so), many individual investors will be attracted and will be loyal.
3. The Small Business Administration is more interested in shoveling out money to small businesses than it is in ensuring that fraud isn't being perpetrated on the tax payers.
4. Wall Street investment banks will help defend any company that pays a lot of fees.
5. With enough new capital, large mistakes can be smoothed over.
I'm sure that if he were faced with the same investment opportunity today, Mr. Einhorn would run rather than take a short position.
I highly recommend this book to people who learned about perfectly efficient markets and active, honest regulators in school. "Let the investor watch out for himself or herself" would be a better motto in describing the capital markets.
This book will be boring to those who want to a quick take. But you need to read all of the misrepresentations, misstatements, and personal attacks to get a true sense of how the game is played.
If you want a more recent version of this problem, just look at securitized mortgages.
Thanks for sharing, Mr. Einhorn!
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
A Godsend...., 07 Nov 2007
I am new to investing in property and found the that book answered many of the questions that I had in relation to investing in the property market.
It is written in a clear and intelligent way with many helpful tips.
Spot on B&B practical guide, 05 Aug 2008
This book really was a great find. Full of practical advice about setting up a B&B covering all the things I needed to know and right up to date too! It's real strength is in it's presentation which is so simple and clear to read. The author is a genius.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone thinking about setting up a B&B or to anyone already running a B&B.
Just what we needed, 02 May 2006
We found this book very useful, it gave us simple guidance where we were unsure and even answered questions we had not yet thought about.
We had wanted to start a B&B but had always been put-off, as it seemed a bit too daunting and complicated. Now, having worked through this thoughtful book, we feel ready to take the first steps.
A Revelation for Those Who Believe Efficient Markets and Good Regulation Exist, 31 Jul 2008
David Einhorn is a man who believes in checking out companies carefully. When he saw that Allied Capital wasn't following accounting rules and was making lots of bad loans, he smelled an opportunity to make money as the company collapsed. After investing, he had an opportunity to share his idea at a charity event. Allied Capital's stock quickly dropped in response.
This book describes six years of battling to get the story out of what he had learned, to persuade regulators to crack down on Allied Capital so the rules would be followed, and to stop any illegal activities at Allied Capital. The book is written from Mr. Einhorn's perspective.
Along the way, Allied Capital decided that it had to discredit Mr. Einhorn's allegations and his motives.
After many years of battling, Mr. Einhorn learned a number of important lessons:
1. Policing small capitalization companies is a low priority for reporters, analysts, institutional investors, and regulators.
2. If a company keeps paying a dividend (even if it's not smart to do so), many individual investors will be attracted and will be loyal.
3. The Small Business Administration is more interested in shoveling out money to small businesses than it is in ensuring that fraud isn't being perpetrated on the tax payers.
4. Wall Street investment banks will help defend any company that pays a lot of fees.
5. With enough new capital, large mistakes can be smoothed over.
I'm sure that if he were faced with the same investment opportunity today, Mr. Einhorn would run rather than take a short position.
I highly recommend this book to people who learned about perfectly efficient markets and active, honest regulators in school. "Let the investor watch out for himself or herself" would be a better motto in describing the capital markets.
This book will be boring to those who want to a quick take. But you need to read all of the misrepresentations, misstatements, and personal attacks to get a true sense of how the game is played.
If you want a more recent version of this problem, just look at securitized mortgages.
Thanks for sharing, Mr. Einhorn!
Surely it can't get any better?!, 26 Jul 2007
After reading this book, you are left with the feeling that the sky is the limit - nothing but your own self doubt and delusions stand in your way. If Charlie can do it, why can't I? As with the rest of the 'Instant' series, Brad lays it all bare with simple to understand and use real life, cast iron strategies that have been shown to work time and time again. This book is crammed with page after page after page of real life tips and strategies which I guess can turn any business into a profit making super machine in simple no nonsense steps. Not Theory laden or dry to read - just easy to digest and more importantly, quick to implement tips honed from real life the best strategies around the world.
Misleading feedback, 30 Jun 2007
Strange how all the Brad Sugars titles are reviewed by Action Coach members, don't take my word for it, take the reviewer's name & action coach & do a search on google.
Bit poor really! Really goes against what the whole Amazon feedback form is all about!
Improve your Cashflow NOW, 12 Jul 2006
Too many of the businesspeople I've come across say they've tried everything they know to improve cashflow in their business. Basically they run out of ideas and give up. Or place all their efforts into one or two ideas oblivious to all the other opportunities for cashflow. This book contains 100s of ideas to improve cashflow in 5 different areas of your business (did you even know there were 5 areas to work on?). Each idea is rated as to its expected effectiveness. Never be short of cashflow ideas again...
Instant Cashflow, 14 Jan 2006
Wow - this book changed my life...so simple yet so powerful! I highly recommend Instant Cashflow to those looking to get more from their business!
Instant Cashflow, 13 Jan 2006
A great insight into how to alter you mindset and think about what you are doing within your business, why you are doing it and how can this be improved. The book provides many tips and strategies through which that all important bottom line figure can be maximised.
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Customer Reviews
Very useful..., 03 Nov 2008
Useful and practical advice by a man who knows his business inside out. Well written and a pleasure to read, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in retailing. brilliant brilliant brilliant, 19 Jun 2008
If you can only afford one book to help you with your retail business - GET THIS ONE!
I have used it as a basis for training days with my staff and these have been amongst the most successful we have run in 4 years. It has helped to re-energise and re-focus all our efforts, so that everyone knows - and buys into - where we are going and how we will get there. I shall be buying a copy for each one of my permanent staff team! very interesting reading, 12 Jul 2007
My girlfriend and I have opened up a clothes store recently and are working hard to let it survive the first few difficult years. Although this book gives many tips for bigger stores, I have found great insights and tips that make it valuable for us to try and stay ahead of the competion. For team members and managers in any job, anywhere.., 07 Mar 2006
I purchased this book after being offered a managerial role in retail. Knowing little about the industry, I was looking for a book that could tell me everything... from shop floor to staffing. This book not only taught me all I needed to know but gave me confidence and passion to go ahead and be a great team member. I made notes all over it as by page 2 I knew I wasn´t going to be passing it on to anyone else! Easy reference, interesting to read - I took it on holiday - excellent section on people management and lots of information and advice that would apply to most office jobs, work teams and managers everywhere, not just in the retail industry. Also written by a normal guy who has had a long and successful career in retail, not a stuffy professor with a PhD. Thoroughly recommended.
If you're in a hurry, this is for you!, 22 Dec 2005
I bought this just as we were opening our first shop. It's quick to read, makes sense and is easy to remember. Even so, I still have it by the bed and go back to it when I need some new ideas. I just wish there was a number 2 version with more detail. Loved it.
I use it constantly, 05 Nov 2008
I have found this book so useful that I simply haven't bought another on the same subject. It is written by someone who truly understands the subject, and I believe it will be indispensible to a new entrepreneur, an experienced one, or in fact an exec with planning responsibility that wants a budget approved. As a new entrepreneur you could work through the book from start to finish and have a highly workable business plan, or with experience you could use this as a reference guide to jump around in to improve your weak areas, or use as a reference as and when. Its written in a style that is easy to read, complex concepts are given proper and sensical explanation. If only all business books were this helpful.
An absolute must., 20 May 2007
Whether a guide or a reference book, Richard Stutely provides immeasurable insight into how to develop of your business ideas into business. His experience from the "other side" guides the reader in an orderly and accumulative fashion to construct effective business plans and projects. The form is easy to comprehend, for even the least experienced entrepreneur, and provides essential decision making processes that could save the reader fortunes. This book is a must and should portray a "Wealth Warning"-do not start a business without it.
Fantastic, 15 Oct 2003
I bought the previous version of this book to help me write a business plan before seeking startup funding for a technology idea. For my needs, this book continues to be my primary reference when writing business plans. The language used is clear, and there are a few dry jokes that I'm ashamed to say did make me laugh out loud. Having said this, the book is probably more thorough than some readers need - if you want to write the type of business plan that the bank invites you to do when opening an account (e.g. competitive landscape is a single page of local competitors, their prices and their strengths/weaknesses) then you'll find that this book is overkill. If you plan to spend two weeks or more writing your business plan then this book will probably make the process much easier, and lead to a more thoughtful document that stands up to detailed financial and strategic analysis by bank managers, investors, advisors etc. If this is what you're trying to write, then you'd be a total monkey to start without reading this book.
An extremely practical and useful guide., 17 Jun 2003
This is one of the best business planning guides I have read. It gives practical advice and examples on all aspects of planning that are as applicable to the small business as to the larger organisations. As a middle manager who was not used to preparing a business plan, it really helped me deal with everything from presentation to resources and forecasting. I liked the way that the subjects were organised, allowing me to dip into the sections that I had less expertise in.
There are plenty of helpful tips and hints highlighted along the way that make the book very readable and not too dry in an otherwise stressful activity.
Not for Startups, 30 Apr 2003
This book appears to be very much aimed at management figures within existing companies writing internal business plans. For startups, its not really suitable, very confusing and irrelevant in many repects.
Out of date! Worksheets no longer available., 03 May 2008
It is with much disappointment that I must urge all readers to avoid this book.
I loved the first book "E Myth Revisited" - and this is supposedly the sequel.
However the book gives many exercises - and tells you to download worksheets to complete the exercises. Sadly these worksheets have been discontinued. You can phone (!) the company and ask them to email *some* of the out-of-date worksheets, but some are no longer available.
This renders many of the exercises in the book impossible - and having got a third of the way through, I am no longer willing to continue, as it refers to documents I can't see online as required to do so by the book.
It is disgraceful that a 2007 edition should already (May 2008) have its online content removed. It is a disgrace to the author, his company and it's insulting to the readers who end up wasting time on this book.
On a final note, the book comes up with a completely different business plan to the one in the Revisited book - meaning that those of you who have spent time writing a business plan following the model in the Revisited book will have to start again if you read this book.
Shame on you Michael Greber.
Heavy going, heavy on psychobabble, 29 Jul 2007
If you're into overwrought emotional prose this ones for you.
I quote "without the passion of the soul, the mind creates an endless stream of empty suits, dreams without heart..."
or this gem
"a part of me is just afraid. that part of me feels like i'm jumping off a cliff, but in some strange way I also trust that I'll fall into something soft and safe"
After about 100 pages it starts turning into a business book again, but after wading through the cod philosphies at the start of the book I was actually angry at the author for putting me through some really badly written stuff, concerning a lady called sarah from 'all about pies' who'd lost her passion, apparently. I knew how she felt by this point in the book.
If you buy it read the real stuff at the end of the book, but really, don't encourage him.
To misquote the book I certainly felt like jumping off a cliff at times.
If only he'd have just stuck to the business. Why does everyone have to be a cod psychologist these days? Nuff said'
Zen and the Art of Entrepreneurship, 01 Jun 2007
The book is about the 'Self' as businessman/woman. The key is the, periodic, precisely ordered and focused exercises.
These are questions, Michael Gerber, aims at the heart and soul of being/becoming an entrepreneur. And so one is, if one is open to the questioning, able to pinpoint within oneself the barriers to becoming a truly creative person. Then, after self-reflection, one may come from a space, which was previously closed and oppressive, to an open and experiential one.
There is a storyline in the book showing clearly how the entrepreneur becomes so easily a robot and a machine in the current business ethos. So how does one stay alive and renewed in what is essentially a mechanised business world? Well, this book tackles this dilemma - by making one confront oneself and ones susceptibility, and then enabling one to recover integrity and creativity from within oneself. Because, ultimately, it is not the techniques and methods which make for success, but who one is and how well one knows oneself, and continues to discover oneself.
The book has its highest value in enabling self-knowledge as an entrepreneur.
Michael Gerber in the book does, however, always present the avenues and methods for success in the greatest of practical detail (for example on sales he covers internet portal, direct mail etc. etc. etc. etc. - it's all covered - with advantages and disadvantages and practical application). There are downloadable worksheets, all very ordered and practical where one can try out, test and keep records about ones experiments with oneself, the business and the marketplace.
I would have liked to say more on the practical side of the book, because it is hugely practical and applicable. But it is a year since I read a borrowed copy and don't have it in front of me. I am now ordering a copy for myself.
Entrepreneurship, in my view, is a difficult business. It is one of the greatest challenges to oneself. It can be a disheartening and even degrading experience. Thank you, Michael Gerber, for enabling me to know the dangers, and for giving me clarity and understanding at the beginning of my new business.
Finally, this is not a quick fix book, although because of the practical detail it can be used like one. But beware, for the book is about a journey one decides to make/take - and there are many adventures to be had along the way! :)
In business?Buy this now., 29 Dec 2005
Having started my own business this book, and the whole Gerber approach, has revolutionised the way we work. We already knew we wanted to change some of the things we were doing but not sure exactly what or how. This book crystallised our thinking and has made us a better outfit because of it. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone in a business or thinking of going into business. It is not a quick fix, it's not a load of guru speak. It is a very real set of ideas that have worked for this humble photographer.
A Godsend...., 07 Nov 2007
I am new to investing in property and found the that book answered many of the questions that I had in relation to investing in the property market.
It is written in a clear and intelligent way with many helpful tips.
Spot on B&B practical guide, 05 Aug 2008
This book really was a great find. Full of practical advice about setting up a B&B covering all the things I needed to know and right up to date too! It's real strength is in it's presentation which is so simple and clear to read. The author is a genius.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone thinking about setting up a B&B or to anyone already running a B&B.
Just what we needed, 02 May 2006
We found this book very useful, it gave us simple guidance where we were unsure and even answered questions we had not yet thought about.
We had wanted to start a B&B but had always been put-off, as it seemed a bit too daunting and complicated. Now, having worked through this thoughtful book, we feel ready to take the first steps.
A Revelation for Those Who Believe Efficient Markets and Good Regulation Exist, 31 Jul 2008
David Einhorn is a man who believes in checking out companies carefully. When he saw that Allied Capital wasn't following accounting rules and was making lots of bad loans, he smelled an opportunity to make money as the company collapsed. After investing, he had an opportunity to share his idea at a charity event. Allied Capital's stock quickly dropped in response.
This book describes six years of battling to get the story out of what he had learned, to persuade regulators to crack down on Allied Capital so the rules would be followed, and to stop any illegal activities at Allied Capital. The book is written from Mr. Einhorn's perspective.
Along the way, Allied Capital decided that it had to discredit Mr. Einhorn's allegations and his motives.
After many years of battling, Mr. Einhorn learned a number of important lessons:
1. Policing small capitalization companies is a low priority for reporters, analysts, institutional investors, and regulators.
2. If a company keeps paying a dividend (even if it's not smart to do so), many individual investors will be attracted and will be loyal.
3. The Small Business Administration is more interested in shoveling out money to small businesses than it is in ensuring that fraud isn't being perpetrated on the tax payers.
4. Wall Street investment banks will help defend any company that pays a lot of fees.
5. With enough new capital, large mistakes can be smoothed over.
I'm sure that if he were faced with the same investment opportunity today, Mr. Einhorn would run rather than take a short position.
I highly recommend this book to people who learned about perfectly efficient markets and active, honest regulators in school. "Let the investor watch out for himself or herself" would be a better motto in describing the capital markets.
This book will be boring to those who want to a quick take. But you need to read all of the misrepresentations, misstatements, and personal attacks to get a true sense of how the game is played.
If you want a more recent version of this problem, just look at securitized mortgages.
Thanks for sharing, Mr. Einhorn!
Surely it can't get any better?!, 26 Jul 2007
After reading this book, you are left with the feeling that the sky is the limit - nothing but your own self doubt and delusions stand in your way. If Charlie can do it, why can't I? As with the rest of the 'Instant' series, Brad lays it all bare with simple to understand and use real life, cast iron strategies that have been shown to work time and time again. This book is crammed with page after page after page of real life tips and strategies which I guess can turn any business into a profit making super machine in simple no nonsense steps. Not Theory laden or dry to read - just easy to digest and more importantly, quick to implement tips honed from real life the best strategies around the world.
Misleading feedback, 30 Jun 2007
Strange how all the Brad Sugars titles are reviewed by Action Coach members, don't take my word for it, take the reviewer's name & action coach & do a search on google.
Bit poor really! Really goes against what the whole Amazon feedback form is all about!
Improve your Cashflow NOW, 12 Jul 2006
Too many of the businesspeople I've come across say they've tried everything they know to improve cashflow in their business. Basically they run out of ideas and give up. Or place all their efforts into one or two ideas oblivious to all the other opportunities for cashflow. This book contains 100s of ideas to improve cashflow in 5 different areas of your business (did you even know there were 5 areas to work on?). Each idea is rated as to its expected effectiveness. Never be short of cashflow ideas again...
Instant Cashflow, 14 Jan 2006
Wow - this book changed my life...so simple yet so powerful! I highly recommend Instant Cashflow to those looking to get more from their business!
Instant Cashflow, 13 Jan 2006
A great insight into how to alter you mindset and think about what you are doing within your business, why you are doing it and how can this be improved. The book provides many tips and strategies through which that all important bottom line figure can be maximised.
One of the most useless wastes of paper I have ever had the misfortune to purcahse, 20 Oct 2008
I bought this book because of the other good reviews on amazon. I must have been reading a different book to everyone else. If you find it useful advice to "take a bath rather than a shower because it gives you more time to think about your business plan", then this is the ideal book for you. About 80% of the ideas are just too bleedingly obvious to be of any use, 15% are actually unhelpful or inaccurate (such as the bits on websites) and the remaining 5% are actually valid ideas, but they are all explained much better in other management books I have. However, to be fair, some of the ideas were just so stupid (like the one about taking baths) that it did make me laugh out loud to think that some people think this would be good advice, so at least it made me smile.
Things I wish I had known 4 years ago..., 28 Aug 2008
I have just come back from my holidays where I took this book as a little light reading. Having read a number of business books in my lifetime, I can honestly say this book does exactly what it says on the tin. Full of useful information in an easy to read format, every page contains information that I wish I had known when I first started up my business four years ago. I will definitely be recommending this to other small businesses and business start-ups that I come into contact with.
On to a winner, 19 | | |