(audio from a video book review)Nicholas Boothman’s book “How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less” is a great introduction to the skill of intentionally establishing rapport with new acquaintances. This book is a broad, useful introduction to the topic.
All else being equal, people would rather spend time with, work with, buy from, and help those that they like. The skill of being likeable and helping people to like you is thus a very useful life skill and can be an important component of your success toolbox.
Boothman establishes two beautiful aspects to being likeable:
1. It’s a learned skill. This means that no matter who you are and where you’re starting from, you can improve and develop your skills so that others like you more and more quickly.
2. It’s an honest and ethical practice. Even though the title has the typical “self-help schmarminess,” there is nothing tricky or conniving about the tools and tactics in the book. You would want everyone in your life to understand the concepts of this book and to practice them continually in their relationship with you. Ultimately, likeability largely boils down to active listening and we all crave friends who are careful, active listeners.
This book is not deep. Boothman doesn’t dig into science research or discuss a lot of history. Rather, it’s useful and practical. You can immediately learn and apply the content. I appreciate that!
I listened to the audiobook version and I enjoyed listening to it in the author’s own voice. He does an excellent job conveying the emotion and tone of his work.
However, I purchased the written version so that I would be able to access the outline and notes for reference and so that I could do some of the exercises contained within it.
The book was published in 2000, so there are plenty of used copies available for $0.01. Also, the Kindle version is a downright bargain at $2.51! http://amzn.to/1LW3D2z
Enjoy the book!
Joshua
