BUSINESS OWNER CORNER: LESSONS FROM "HOW TO WIN FRIENDS & INFLUENCE PEOPLE."

Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends & Influence People" is my all-time favorite business book. Don't let the title or the fact that it's nearly 90 years old fool you—the lessons inside are truly life-changing.

I've seen highly successful business executives read this book multiple times, and some even have their children read it during summer breaks. It's that impactful!

Here are some of the most important lessons the book teaches:

• Use People's Names: People love hearing their own name. Using it in conversation is a powerful way to get and keep their attention.

• Avoid Arguments with Clients: You might win an argument, but you could lose a customer. Instead of trying to prove someone wrong, acknowledge the situation didn't meet expectations for anyone, and work together to find a solution.

• Admit Your Mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes. When you mess up, own it, take full responsibility, apologize, and then find the best solution. This builds trust and respect.

• Listen More Than You Speak: People often feel they've had a better “conversation” when they've done most of the talking.  

  
  

There are many more valuable insights in this book. You can find a copy at your local library or purchase it on Amazon for less than $10.