Why Don't You Want What I Want? How to Win Support for Your Ideas without Hard Sell, Manipulation, or Power Plays

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Summary: Maurer Makes Practical Sense
Review: 'Why Don't You Want What I Want' sits on my business shelves as one of a very short list of books that I consider useful, practical and provocative references, both in support of my learning and of the work I do with clients.

Rick Maurer has that rare ability to blend practical and concrete experience with a healthy dose of self-deprecating humor, and then set it in the context of a sound theoretical footing. Rick's earlier books were thoughtful and useful; this one is the best yet in its ability to integrate ideas with action.

Of most value to me in my coaching of leaders was the extended discussion of the Principles of Engagement, touchstones for those seeking dialogue and opportunities to influence outcomes. In particular, the chapter on avoiding Knee-Jerk responses has served me well as I work with men and women whose needs and wants often differ from my own.

This book flows. Interviews with those whose experience relates to the point Maurer is making, strengthen the book throughout. I was left with a commitment to try new approaches to bringing value to my client work, largely, I think, because of the creative, engaging style of the author. Maurer makes you smile and Maurer makes you think!

I turned down more page corners in this book than in many I have read recently. This is a true 'working copy'; it is a book I turn to when I am looking for perspective or fresh thinking about impact and influence.

Finally, I bought copies of the book for some of my clients, in particular those who have the challenge of developing effective, committed teams quickly. Now they can consider some of Rick Maurer's ideas and perspectives directly as we work on approaches to their impact on the business.

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Summary: Why Don't You Want What I Want?
Review: I've read all of Rick Maurer's books. They are supposedly for business leaders and managers, but I find them highly personal. None disappoints. Each enlightens and enlivens. And so with "Why Don't You Want What I want?". If one wants to support living a life of integrity, at work or at home,this book has many answers. Rick proposes that winning support for one's ideas and agenda be based on honest relationship, not one fraught with manipulation and/or coercion. As a consultant and trainer I have found with very few exceptions that my clients are good at lobbying for their point of view but lack the attitude and therefore the ability to genuinely inquire into another's. These (lobbying and inquiring) must come more into balance, says the author, if others are to join us rather than make it their raison d'etre to resist us. We also must know our intentions. While I think " knowing my true intentions" takes the maturity and the skill of being a competent observer of myself (and this is far from easy), Rick Maurer makes some distinctions and offers tools that lighten the task for the willing. As a matter of fact, that's one of the high points of reading this (or any) Rick Maurer book. It's simply written, makes sense against my personal and professional experience, is witty and funny. But what attracts me most to "Why Don't You Want What I Want?" is that I can use it to "stay on purpose," and my purpose is to enhance my personal power and that of others in my business and personal life. Building commitment, strategies for avoiding resistance in the first place, and dealing with it when I have to are part of my every day. I enjoy competence in those domains. "Why Don't You Want What I Want" has moved me to a higher level of competence. I've passed a copy on to some of my clients. Invariably the title alone has captured their interest. That tells me there is a need out there for practical answers to the question "Why Don't You Want What I Want?". Rick Maurer's book has them.

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Summary: Reader friendly, innovative, and practical
Review: Why Don't You Want What I Want?: How To Win Support For Your Ideas With Hard Sell, Manipulation, Or Power Plays is an informed and informative work specifically written by organization change consultant and public speaker Rick Maurer for business executives, managers, and salespeople who need to garner support and unity from colleagues and associates in order to get their job done. Why Don't You Want What I Want is also very strongly recommended reading for anyone in the private or public sectors facing the complex task for getting a group to rally to the cause. Individual chapters address presenting one's position in the most persuasive manner; avoiding knee-jerk reactions; building trust even in a hostile environment; and a great deal more. Reader friendly, innovative, and practical, Why Don't You Want What I Want? can and will enable anyone to peacefully influence a loved one in ways that will enhance familial bonds or friends in a manner that will strengthen and deepen friendship.