The Mafia Manager

Rating:
Summary: Worth the Time and Money
Review: I read this book 2 years ago and picked it up again for guidance!!! Its common common sense. The references to human ego, are on target! However, don't get confused; this book isn't on how to be a leader. This book is for leaders that find themselves in organizations (old and new) bound by red-tape, corporate beuracracy, and "...the family business" -- yet hope to reach the top "...of a bone pile."

Rating:
Summary: A realistic view of the business world
Review: This book offers advice that is more practical than one would initially expect. Having worked in the bureaucratic jungle of D.C. for a few years, I can say from experience that the author does quite a good job in explaining the nuances of the business world. This book cuts through a lot of the b.s. that is taught in a typical MBA program and offers some interesting insights into managerial thinking (or lack there of). Also, the author has a style that makes retention rather easy. While I still value humility and compassion in the workplace, the "Mafia Manager" portrays an environment that is more truth than fiction. Most management books are absolute garbage - this isn't one of them.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent guide for moving ahead at work
Review: This is an excellent book for people who find themselves struggling in their professional life. Do you find yourself working twice as hard and getting nowhere fast? Then you need an education in the realities of the business world and human nature. If you are already doing well in your professional life then this book is probably a waste of your time as you've probably already mastered the information contained within. If you are a scholar or looking for some insight as to the inner workings of the mafia save your money and don't buy this book.

However, if your looking for some basic guidelines on how to behave at work to move ahead,or if you believe your coworkers are actually your "friends" then get this book right away. The strength of this book is how it describes in lay man terms what you need to do to survive and thrive, and despite the mention of the word mafia in the title I didn't find the tactics in this book evil. While I found some of the tactics used on subordinates, when you become manager a little outdated. I found the parts describing your behavior to your boss and peers very informative.