SMALL MISTAKES, BIG CONSEQUENCES

An illustrated manual focuses on the various employees readers will encounter at work.

What readers will find in the pages of her sequel, Baum is quick to tell them, is not exactly “rocket science.” The author offers common-sense tips gleaned from her long, personal experience in the world of business motivation. Nonetheless, the advice is crucially important since her readers must interact with a wide array of individuals in the workplace. “People make subconscious decisions about who we are and our credibility the instant they see us,” she writes. “With that fact in mind, what can you do to have your perception equal your reality?” In this guide, Baum parades before her readers an entire cast of characters they’ll be facing in their business world dealings as well as the small mistakes that are associated with each type. Each of these character types is given a funny, full-color illustration by Giandomenico and a quick, entertaining, astute description. Readers meet “the Spin Doctor,” for instance, who “alters the truth to fit the situation.” According to Baum, “The Spin Doctor carefully chooses her words to communicate only as much of the truth as she deems necessary to succeed.” Readers of course encounter “the Gossip,” who “rarely shares her criticism with the target of her gossip.” Each of these pithy profiles is accompanied by the author’s always clear and perceptive assessments of some key points, like the “Big Consequence” of each character type, as well as the solutions. Baum tells her audience how to manage and work with the type and, most importantly, how to sidestep becoming that figure. In order to avoid turning into “the eRanter,” for instance, readers are advised: “Have courage and communicate. If you have an issue with someone, speak to him face-to-face.” This mix of insights and compassion makes an irresistible combination, ideal for readers in any area of business.

A valuable and accessible guide to the types of people in the workforce.