50 ideas that changed the world of work The essential guide to the best business thinking

In this brisk survey, corporate consultants Kourdi (Coaching Questions for Every Situation) and Besser offer advice on how leaders can embrace some of the most influential ideas and practices to come out of the business world. For instance, they describe how the Boston Consulting Group developed the growth share matrix, which tracks the success of products or services by charting their market growth relative to market share, and recommend using it to determine which popular products from one's portfolio could fund the promotion of less established ones with high growth potential. Other entries focus on the human side of business, as when the authors detail self-help writer Dale Carnegie's tips for "winning friends and influencing people" (e.g., "Help others see and understand how your ideas or proposals can benefit them personally"). Elsewhere, Kourdi and Besser discuss how Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs provides a blueprint for motivating workers, how former Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg's "lean in" framework promises to produce more diverse workplaces, and how statistician Nassim Nicholas Taleb's warnings about rare "black swan" events encourage taking preemptive action to address even unlikely risks. The succinct summaries serve as an abbreviated MBA syllabus, offering pragmatic guidance on implementing well-known business concepts and practices. This is perfect for executives and managers in a hurry. (May)

Presented in a clear, concise format, this work about work provides historical context and practical applications of the transformative concepts that have improved productivity, fostered collaboration, and redefined workplace culture. Concepts covered include the adoption of flexible work arrangements, the rise of remote working tools, and the psychology of employee motivation. Key ideas provide a road map for creating a more efficient work environment. The book is an essential resource for business professionals seeking to improve workplace dynamics and for readers interested in understanding the driving forces in modern work culture. The authors, both consultants, offer insightful analysis and actionable takeaways, making this book a must-have for libraries aiming to provide resources that inspire innovation, growth, and increased work efficiency. VERDICT What sets this book apart is its balance of vision and practicality. Readers gain an understanding of not only why certain strategies have been effective but also how they can be adapted to their own work environments. A roadmap and essential guide to the workplace, with broad appeal and practical value.--Susan McClellan