Dale Carnegie’s 9 Secrets To Success
February 7, 2011 by Bob Hill
Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People is one of the most popular business books of all time, thanks to these business tips:
- Become a friendlier person. Fair but firm is the modern-day equivalent of this approach, which hinges on empowering peers by taking a genuine interest in them and providing sincere praise whenever possible. Ask good questions, spend more time listening than speaking, and inspire people to achieve more.
- Win people to your way of thinking. Dwight D. Eisenhower once said that “leadership is the ability to decide what is to be done, and then get others to do it.” Carnegie’s approach is a tad more diplomatic. He suggests never telling employees they are wrong, giving them an opportunity to explain the thinking behind their ideas, and getting others in the habit of saying “yes” early and often. He also suggests challenging employees to strive for a higher standard … for their own benefit, not yours.
- Be a leader. Point out mistakes indirectly. Praise in public, criticize in private. Point out your own flaws as a way of making people less conscious about their own. Ask questions that lead people to suggest the answer you’re looking for.
- Overcome worry. Consider what the possible consequences are, then confront the problem and improve your circumstances. Resolve small issues before they evolve into larger problems.
- Gather as much information as possible. Knowledge is power, and the more intelligence and research you can gather about a specific project or situation, the more informed your eventual course of action will be.
- Don’t be complacent. Avoid stagnant, idle periods that result in unnecessary worry or concern. Keep moving forward. Evolve.
- Maintain a positive mental attitude. Don’t focus on revenge or retribution. The best revenge is success. Keep your thoughts focused on the matter at hand and look for the positive takeaways from your negative experiences. Count your blessings, not your problems.
- Accept honest criticism. Everybody’s a critic, and a good leader knows how to separate constructive criticism from jealousy and negativity. Work on improving your faults and solicit opinions that can help make you more effective.
- Find a balance between business and pleasure. Make sure you get ample rest and provide time for yourself. Stay organized and make your work area a reflection of your positive attitude.
Adapted from the book Dale Carnegie’s Secrets to Success.
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