So I signed up for http://brb.thomasnelson.com/

My first book is “The Truth About You” by Marcus Buckingham

My first impression:
This is without reading a single line in the book. The design is gorgeous. I mean package designer envy is the initial reaction. There’s a dvd tucked away inside the front cover, and there’s a notebook tucked away in a specially designed compartment in the back, with the book sandwiched in the middle. Shiny silver cover, bright blue interior – amazing impression.

On really opening up the book though my gut says that this thing is going to be a bit awkward to hold in order to read. And asking the blog readers to both read and watch is a bit much – especially because I think people buying the book/dvd at the store will either do one or the other and not both. I keep thinking self-help CLASS here and it’s going to require more dedicated focused time.

All this before reading the book – now on to my thoughts from after I read the book.

Book Notes:

• There is a focus on strengths and weaknesses not just being about what you’re good at or bad at. If you’re good at something but absolutely hate doing it then it’s actually a weakness.
• Do you look forward to doing it? Do you feel good while you’re doing it? Do you feel great after doing it? I’m at my best when…
• You can’t ignore your weaknesses but instead of working on your weaknesses you should be working on your strengths.
• Have a strong week plan to push your time towards your strengths.
• The bulkiness of the book is a bit awkward overall but reading it is not bad once the notepad in the back is removed.

Target audience:

• Talks to company employees instead of company owners. This is not about finding the perfect job so there are things employers/business owners can learn from this as well.

DVD:
It’s just over 20 minutes.
Also includes enhanced content that works on a PC and a MAC:

• 5 Strength tip videos:
  watch them from the disc or you can sign up for the e-newsletter on the website and get these for free http://www.marcusbuckingham.com
• Resources links:

  http://www.marcusbuckingham.com/book_resources/ttay/index.php

Is this book be worth buying?

• The approach and how things are presented is unique and clear.
• It’s underlying message however is not completely unique or thrilling.
• Sometimes presentation will help you understand certain concepts in a way that you didn’t or wouldn’t presented another way.
• The questions will help you drill down to some of your true strengths. Even if you know some of your obvious strengths already, this will probably help you pinpoint details or find additional strengths.

Bottom line – yes, this book is worth reading. Maybe not for the $30 MSRP but for a little less it is definitely worth the money and time and it’s a quick read.

To read the first 12 pages click “read” on the widget below:

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