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3.64 AVERAGE
3.64 AVERAGE
I’m not really sure what to make of this book. I can’t work out if what I’ve read are transferable leadership tools or simply an advert for how great the Virgin empire is.
There were aspects I liked and compared to most leadership books this was a refreshingly easy read - but at the same time I’m inclined to think that some of the scenarios being communicated have skirted over the less aesthetic parts happening behind the scenes. Like others here, I did enjoy the April Fools stories though. 3 stars.
There were aspects I liked and compared to most leadership books this was a refreshingly easy read - but at the same time I’m inclined to think that some of the scenarios being communicated have skirted over the less aesthetic parts happening behind the scenes. Like others here, I did enjoy the April Fools stories though. 3 stars.
Branson combines personal experience and external examples in a well-rounded and easy-to-read business book.
Pro: Full of humbling and uncomplicated leadership advice. To summarize my key takeaways --- follow your dreams, focus on quality products/experiences instead of profits [and the profits will follow], have fun, LISTEN [seriously this is like 25% of the book], take notes, make a positive difference, and communicate at all levels [with customers, staff, and amongst all divisions of the company].
Con: Heavy focus on "how to be an entrepreneur", which isn't what I wanted to explore.
Pro: Full of humbling and uncomplicated leadership advice. To summarize my key takeaways --- follow your dreams, focus on quality products/experiences instead of profits [and the profits will follow], have fun, LISTEN [seriously this is like 25% of the book], take notes, make a positive difference, and communicate at all levels [with customers, staff, and amongst all divisions of the company].
Con: Heavy focus on "how to be an entrepreneur", which isn't what I wanted to explore.
This was a really fun and for the most part interesting book to read! There are lots of snarky stories and great tips that you could apply to pretty much any workplace situation. Branson appeared to me as both arrogant (a little bit) and endearing (absolutely) at the same time. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the casualness of this book -- almost as if you were sitting across the kitchen table with him at his Necker Island home just having a great, informal conversation. He doesn't seem rigid at all -- but personable, approachable, and of course fun and intelligent. If you don't feel like reading the whole book (but it was a quick, easy read) you could just flip to the back and read Branson's ten most important takeaways. On the whole, I enjoyed this book and recommend it.
I enjoyed Richard's story quite a bit. It's always fascinating reading about organizations that have distinct cultures that are so widely respected. I also found much of his advice to be practical and down to earth, but challenging to apply if you are not in an amazing culture such as Virgin.
content can be found elsewhere, but bio could be worth the read for earlier development
More a memoir than practical, applicable business advice. Excellent narration.