Books: There are some times when honesty isn't the best policy
Anne Egelton, 01 September 2008
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This is a book that takes a cautious approach to speaking frankly at work, says Anne Egleton, chief people officer at Fish4, and one that is largely based on the author's personal experiences.
Beyond Bullsh*t: Straight-Talk at Work
Author: Samuel Culbert
Publisher: Kogan Page
Price: £12.99.
Rating: 3 out of 5
In this book Samuel Culbert takes a very personal look at some all too familiar truths about business culture, and provides helpful advice on how to use straight talking to build honest relationships and greater business success.
Culbert explains, that while bullshit is endemic in the workplace, its antithesis - straight talk - is less common but also has its pitfalls. Directness, he says, is only productive if it is not self-motivated. There are also times when honesty can be counterproductive, for example, if the truth is unpalatable or demotivating.
Using personal stories and practical advice, Culbert shows that effective straight talking can be achieved through active listening and careful negotiation. He also demonstrates the rewards of directness - these being a more pleasant, fulfilling and successful work life.
I enjoyed being able to relate the book to many work situations, especially in the sections that focused on building and developing straight-talk relationships with your boss. It is all too easy to fall into specific roles in the workplace without being your true self or speaking honestly. This book identifies different personalities and how to deal with them without being perceived as rude or disrespectful. However, most of the examples within the book are based entirely on Culbert's own experiences, rather than perhaps those that have been presented to him externally.
I have read other books written to help develop confidence at work and one that stands out more is The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. This is another influential book presenting a holistic, integrated approach to solving personal and professional problems. Covey offers more of a practical framework than Culbert and this particular book has more of an integrated learning curve. However, don't be put off reading Culbert. You'll enjoy it, and will learn some things you didn't know. before.
