I took my time reading Enchantment: The Art of Changing Hearts, Minds and Actions by Guy Kawasaki; and then I took even a little longer to write my review. The reason for my delay is what I have found most enchanting about the experience has been reading Kawasaki's updates on Facebook where he has epitomized the very art of influence; the very art of enchantment.
There is nothing new about writing a how-to book on how to influence people. There is, however, value in writing a book that helps the reader transform into a person who influences others. We learn best when we see leaders doing what they say we should do, and that has been my greatest joy of reading Enchantment.
Through the Enchantment Facebook page and other social media outlets, it has been easy to watch Kawasaki doing all the things he advocates and more:
- Smile and mean it. Boom ... there is a picture of Kawasaki grinning with crow's feet.
- Dress for a tie. Boom ... there is a picture of Kawasaki at the Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association's Meeting, appropriately attired for his audience.
- Make it personal. Boom ... there are snippets and stories on his blog, on Facebook and Twitter of how Kawasaki uses his advice to manage his life.
- Build an ecosystem. Boom ... there is Kawasaki at SXSW with his literal and figurative team.
- Diversify the team. Boom ... did you know there were 260 people involved in designing the cover of the book alone?
Some are saying that Enchantment is the 21st century replacement for Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People. Perhaps, but I rather think it is more of a blueprint for honest engagement with others in a world replete with networked relationships that are both enhanced and strained by technology.
In this ever-evolving medium, guided by interactive rules and often abridged discussion, we have to be reminded always to take a positive approach. Kawasaki effectively demonstrates something highly valued by Experience Optimism readers; a positive, optimistic approach to business and life is not only enchanting, it is the best path to follow.
Read Enchantment: The Art of Changing Hearts, Minds, and Actions and follow the blueprint. You will discover that you can be positively enchanting – and more successful – too.
You can buy Enchantment from your local bookseller or online through a choice of online retailers.
