Customer Reviews

Talk Ain't Cheap...It's Priceless! Connecting in a Disconnected World

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I always hesitate to purchase "leadership communication books". So often the ideas are either cheesey (which I hate) or ones I have read a million times. I can honestly tell you this book contains neither of those. The powerful words from McDargh are presented in such a well-written and conversational way. It's a quick-read yet jam-packed with ideas that you'll want to start implementing immediately.

McDargh reminds us that in this technical world of emails, voice mails, and text messages, it is all too often forgotten the value of "live" communication. It's so easy and quick to type an email...so easy that many of us have lost the ability to communicate effectively with our employees. No matter your level of expertise, this little book will not only remind you of the importance of communication, it will teach you many new techniques to keep that newly-found communication going throughout your organization.

I assure you---you will not be disappointed in this book. It will remind you of just how priceless TALK really is!

In this small book, Eileen McDargh reveals a big secret. "If you look closely at great places to work and companies with high levels of worker engagement and retention," she writes, "you'll find a common factor. At the core, hidden behind policies and procedures, is a simple human ingredient: connected people." Connecting in the workplace is challenging and it all comes down to leadership communication. In a mere 60 pages, this book offers a king's ransom of insights, stories, and practical tips to help. So take the author's advice: "Start talking and get to work." What a refreshing place to begin!

Although this book was written for leaders in business organizations it is very applicable to anyone in the business from the frontline to the CEO. The bottom line in all relationships is connection and the author uses assessments, advice, stories, quotes and anecdotes to keep her readers interested and engaged.

The information in the book will help you become a better conversationalist and listener, offers unique ways to make meetings more productive, tells you who you should be talking with and tells you how to talk so that people will listen.

Organizations that connect with their employee and customers stay in business and make more money. They have less turnover, employees are more engaged and productive and stock holders are happy. If your company wants to enjoy these benefits then you need to get this book into the hands of everyone that works for you. I only wish some of the people I worked for in the past had read this book!

This is one of those short books (51 pages) that is meant to be bought in quantity for a company or for a seminar.

The gist of the book is so simple and obvious that it is worth saying. Sometimes we get caught up in electronic communications like email that we don't actually talk to people.

Communication is key and often things are communicated more fully in person. It is tough to read body language in an email.

One line in the book hit me and that was, "How will they feel?" How the person feels when they are talked to is critical. And the only way to get closer to reading that is to be in person.

Worth using as a discussion starter within any company wanting to improve communications.

It's perfectly human to crave attention, connectedness and meaning, the author reminds us. But we often fall short of giving and getting the kind of communication we seek in all of our relationships. Remedy: You can read Eileen's book before breakfast or bedtime, on the treadmill or at lunch - it's that concise and useful - and your communication skills will be instantly renewed. One lesson I took to heart: Have a "viewing point" not just a viewpoint to get a wider view and truer connection. And another: Wrap my facts in emotion for better storytelling for deeper meaning. And a classic: Just say: Tell me more. Then, sit back and be amazed at how you gave the gift of your attention to another. Simple, sticky, smart stuff written with enormous wisdom that we humans all need for richer results in work and life.

The essence of good service is great managers who engage their employees. The essence of that kind of greatness lies in the quality of conversation that is created. The author does a magnificent job of teaching both the art and the science of straight talk!

This book is very much like Eileen in person. It exudes energy and warmth. It is sincere and real. It's small but powerful. And, it leaves you smiling.

This is one short book you'll wish was longer.

If you're a manager you'll want this in your top desk drawer. If you are a manager of managers, you'll get this for all who report to you and hold them accountable for the advice and practical tips the author shares!

Beverly Kaye

Founder and CEO, Career Systems International

Co-author, Love `Em or Lose `Em: Getting Good People to Stay

What a gem of a book! The information and ideas in this book are EXACTLY the kind that, when applied, can transform businesses into productive, enjoyable hubs, where people love to come to work, go the extra mile and give a hundred percent. And THAT translates into happy, loyal customers and clients. Here's what you will love about this book:

1. McDargh is a very good writer and structures ideas in a clean, clear and engaging manner.

2. You become convinced very quickly that these ideas are highly doable and will WORK!

3. It is short and easy to read. No lenghty philosophies or business rhetoric.

As a communications consultant and trainer, I have read a multitude of great communications books by the masters in this field. And I can say unequivocally, this one ranks at the very top of the list. Buy this book. Apply the ideas and watch your team's attitude and productivity soar. Better yet, buy a copy for every supervisor, manager or team leader in your company and get everyone rowing in the same direction - with a sense of purpose, fun, and mutual support!