Then in the 90's, I were so happy to find Further Up The Organisation, an updated version of the one I lost and I bought 2 copies. So far I have only worked for 2 organisations during the last 14 years but have received 6 promotions so far, now already the Chief Executive since 1995 at the age of 32. Thanks to Robert Townsend.
The books offer solutions on various subjects at work, but more importantly stimulate the readers to agree or to disagree to the ideas and prompt them to think or re-think how and why they are doing that way.
Until a few years ago, everytime when I was in a bookstore, I would go to the relevant section to look for further updates of the book.
The publisher should re-print the book and sell them again.
It is easy to read and fast. The topics are arranged from A to Z with a one page snap shot of the "answer" to business question and organization issues. While other books attempt to help you understand everything from your inner business self to business lessons through the eyes of a piss ant (remember those who can't do teach, or in most cases write books on the subject), Townsend's book should be considered the manual. Be ensured that if you follow these simple practices your company will be on the way to the top 100 (the company I work for lives by this book and we are ranker number 5 by Fortune this year, our first year under review).
For those fortunant enough to be stepping out on your own, this book is a reminded and a refresher for you to being successful. Interesting that a book writen first in the early 70's then updated in 85 still holds so true for today, ie not a business fad book. After all the bible is still on the best seller list.
Good job and thanks to Robert Townsend.
Terril Perrine
The sections on PEOPLE, TOO MUCH, LEADERSHP, MISTRESSES, FIRING PEOPLE, AND INCENTIVE COMPSENSATION are classics which remain as useful today as in 1970. You would never know that this book is almost 30 years old.
When I have a difficult management or people problem, I review the relevant sections for a grounding in common sense. I have tried to order a copy for each of my employees, but it is out of print. Let us hope that Robert Townsend puts a few updates on this commen sense book and saves more business folks from themselves!
HINT! HINT!