HoganHospitality.com Your Hospitality Resource for Hotel Owners, Innkeepers, Managers and Associations
Recommended Reading
Hogan Recommended Reading List UPDATED MONTHLY
Thursday, Aug 19
Biography - Conrad Hilton: Innkeeper to the World (DVD)
Co-authored books by sports personalities often tend to take the approach of sharing career highlights and victories, which are meant to motivate the rest of us.
60 days ago, I offered a very positive review of WOODEN ON LEADERSHIP, and I am delighted to provide an additional one for a very different book. In A GAME PLAN FOR LIFE - THE POWER OF MENTORING, Wooden and co-author Don Yaeger do not share war stories but fundamental and valuable life lessons.
Wooden shares what he views as truly powerful in the examples of 7 people who mentored him and 7 others that he passed it forward to.
As in some of his other books, he shares his 15 POWERS OF THE PYRAMID, which continue to impress me (p.84) as a recommendation to individuals and executives who are looking for ways to lead people to "victory" and success in the "game" of life.
Feedback is always welcome
John Hogan
HoganHospitality com
HospitalityEducators com
Real world examples of
building loyalty
Joe Calloway
Indispensable:
How To Become The Company That Your Customers Can't Live Without
Building customer loyalty today requires far more than good service, competitive pricing and attentive sales contacts. In the rapidly changing global market, avoiding the dangers of becoming a commodity is reaching critical stages of reality.
Your Hospitality Resource for Hotel Owners, Innkeepers, Managers and Associations
Contact
me for
ideas on a workshop, consulting and proven ways to help you and your teams focus on Hotel
Profitability Ratios, Hotel Guest Services, Hotel Sales and Marketing Ideas and Hotel Operations
Your
Hospitality
Resource
for
the Hotel Owner, Innkeeper, Manager, and
Hospitality Industry Associations
The Rules of Management, Expanded Edition: A Definitive Code for Managerial Success (Richard Templar's Rules)
by Richard Templar
Recommended
Comment: "A Great Resource for the Rising Professional and Mid-Level Manager of Today!
I hope readers of this review take my title to mean this is only for the rising professional- it can be a great refresher for any level of manager, but I find it to be a top notch resource for those who are on their way up.
A recap
* 227 pages , divided into two main sections: 1 - Managing Your Team and 2- Managing Yourself
* 106 "rules" dealing with hiring, motivating, disciplining, training, coaching and all that a manager should be doing regularly
* "Words of Wisdom" at the end of each of the two pages of "rules" that has a reflective quote or observation
I could expand my comments but I have discovered that brevity sometimes hits the mark better. This is a 5 Star Rating recommendation and its direct and to the point messages are well crafted and of real value.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators HoganHospitality"
Employment Law: The Essential HR Desk Reference
by Lisa Guerin J.D.
Recommended Comment: "An Excellent Quick Reference
This is the first NOLO resource I have seen and overall it is easy to read and follow.
The book itself is 357 pages and its A to Z reference style makes it easy to go directly to the topic you are looking for - IF you know the precise term. For example, if you are looking for "At Will" employment details, it is under E in the Employment Contract section, not A.
The other suggestion I would make on updates would be to include an index so the terms can be found a bit easier.
That being noted, the book itself does carry solid information on many issues that smaller companies may not be familiar with and can be used by any size organization for reference
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality ""
Ubiquitous Computing for Business: Find New Markets, Create Better Businesses, and Reach Customers Around the World 24-7-365
by Bo Begole
4.0 out of 5 stars A Reasonable Approach for the Non-Technical Reader, May 21, 2011
By
John Hogan "John Hogan HoganHospitality" (Phoenix AZ USA)
This review is from: Ubiquitous Computing for Business: Find New Markets, Create Better Businesses, and Reach Customers Around the World 24-7-365 (Hardcover)
Bo Beguile, Ph.D authored this very solid business analysis of Ubiquitous Computing technologies. I am not one who is normally drawn to this topic or to technology related books, but I found this to be an understandable overview of how smart sensors and computers will affect the business and financial picture over the next decade.
I agree with another reviewer that perhaps the topic might have more general population focus and understanding if there has been additional pictorial and textual examples of how smart things everywhere are affecting our lives and businesses, but I feel Dr. Beguile's observations on identifying trends in technologies were very "real world"
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality "
Basketball Junkie: A Memoir
by Chris Herren, Bill Reynolds
Some books are very easy to read, regardless of the outcome. If the story line flows nicely, the message of the book is understood. I must say this book about a local athlete who does very well in some aspects before falling apart does not always flow as well as one would hope, but it is worth the read to learn the lesson.
First of all, I must share that I was born in the city where the story begins, and so have some familiarity with it. Fall River is a city in southern Massachusetts, about 50 miles south of Boston and 20 miles from Providence, RI . The City earned a positive reputation and was economically successful during the 19th century and early 20th century as the leading textile manufacturing center in the US, until the industry relocated to the South. The city has lost population continually, but Fall River's official motto of "We'll Try"( dating back to Great Fire of 1843) is perhaps a good setting for why the story has it's ups and downs.
Basketball Junkie is the story of Chris Herren, and of his life and ongoing interaction with basketball, beginning with his rather strong performance at Durfee, the largest public high school in the area. Part of the reason the book has challenges is somewhat in the way it addresses the reality of the story - Chris is portrayed as not a particularly happy person, despite his successes. He was a home town hero, and he played college ball at Boston College and then at Fresno State under the sometimes controversial Jerry Tarkanian. Herren was drafted in the 1999 NBA draft in the 2nd round by Denver. The story relays how even when he was traded and introduced at a press conference when he was signed by the hero team of his youth, the Boston Celtics, he was already on the way to a tremendous fall.
We have come to look to stories about sports figures to be that of role models and this is not the case. Herren played for professional sports with two US clubs, as well as international teams but it came to an end in late 2004, when Herren was charged with heroin possession and driving under the influence with a revoked license in Rhode Island.
Herren completed intensive rehabilitation programs and has been drug-free since June 2008 and sober since August 2008. In June of 2009, He launched Hoop Dreams to mentor players on and off the court and co-authored this book with Providence Journal columnist, Bill Reynolds
My initial comment was that the flow was a bit choppy, but to be fair, it was due to "telling it like it is." I want to share that I believe this book has some very positive factors:
1. It provides some real insights to struggles facing athletes in the spotlight
2. It is very accurate in regional settings around Fall River and surrounding areas, and comments accurately on struggles facing a city that is "trying" to turn itself around.
3. It clearly shows readers (and hopefully younger readers) of how easy it might be to get drawn into drugs
A final point I would like to share is found in the last chapter of the book. He expresses his deep appreciation for those who supported him in the hard times and explains some of his recovery and business interactions. To me, one of the best messages was his overwhelming gratitude to his wife Heather who stuck with him throughout all of the drama and situations.
This may not be the movie of the week version of a sports "hero", but learning about the human success is worth reading.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality "
Friday, May 13
What on Earth Have I Done?: Stories, Observations, and Affirmations
by Robert Fulghum
Comment: "3.0 out of 5 stars
A Partial Return to Form for a Great Storyteller, March 31, 2011
Over the years, we really enjoyed many of Fulghum's works. He is an exceptional storyteller, and made everyday events and places special through his colorful wording and viewpoints, which were often from the perspective of innocent youth.
The past two works were a bit less enjoyable, but we should all realize it is not easy to continue to write any type of commentary on a continuing basis and have it all be what the audience looks for. One need only look at Mark Twain, Charles Dickens, Jeffrey Archer and others to understand that.
As fan of Fulghum's wit and life observations, I was anticipating enjoying this book. Overall, the book is alright but not quite the same caliber as others. There is one chapter called "CONVERSATION LIFEBOATS" that is quite good and hits his high level of insight perfectly.
I titled this "A Partial Return to Form for a Great Storyteller" and I look forward to the full return and more great stories soon.
As always, comments and welcome and appreciated!
Dr. John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Effective Listening: Your Key to Career Success
4.0 out of 5 stars
A very different approach to searching for success - and one that can work, March 23, 2011
Effective Listening: Your Key to Career Success (Mass Market Paperback)
A very different approach to searching for success - and one that can work
I have been looking at books that have been around for awhile, as a number of them have very solid information. This book by Kevin Murphy takes an unusual approach to career success and I like its' simplicity.
The 18 chapters of the book are divided into 4 main sections:
1. An overview of what "listening" really is
2. Learning to listen
3. Listening needs in staff selection and training
4. The function and need for listening in effective management
The book contains a number of mini-quizzes that focus on select topics and they are excellent for creating self assessments. Finally, this short book includes a number of conclusions and teaching points that are also thought provoking, such as:
"What we hear is not always what is being communicated."
"The better you listen, the more you learn how little you know."
" We can't - our excuse to stop thinking."
"Too many meetings are a clear signal a company is in trouble."
As always, feedback is welcome
Dr. John Hogan CHE CHA CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitaliy
"
Friday, Feb 25
Take Action 18 Proven Strategies
by Susan Bixler and Lisa Scherrer Dugan
Recommended
Comment: "Proven Strategies in Times of Uncertainty
This is not a new bestseller, but one that has logical easy to follow best practices that remain current in the marketplace of 2011, as well as when it was first released eight years. These 18 strategies have merit, are worth consideration and offer practical steps. I am pleased to recommend it.
Dr. John Hogan CHE CHA CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Hotel Success Handbook - Practical Sales and Marketing ideas, actions, and tips to get results for your small hotel, B&B, or guest accommodation.
by Caroline Cooper, Lucy Whittington
Recommended
Comment: "A Solid Primer of Marketing & Sales Tips for the Small Hotel,
This review is from: Hotel Success Handbook - Practical Sales and Marketing ideas, actions, and tips to get results for your small hotel, B&B, or guest accommodation. (Paperback)
Caroline Cooper and Lucy Whittington from the United Kingdom have compiled an easy to read book of practical marketing and training ideas that target smaller hotels, B&Bs and inns. The book offers balanced suggestions on both traditional and online marketing and receives excellent reviews from a range of hospitality professionals in its opening pages.
There are 11 chapters that flow well:
It is becoming more complicated to market and operate a smaller property and these two professionals have combined their background and experience to provide a a resource that delivers practical advice that one can use immediately.
As always, feedback or comments are welcome
John J Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
Peak Performers
by Charles Garfield
Comment: "One of the best researched and presented books on "Personal Power"
In this day of information overload, a book that logically and clearly demonstrates both interesting and believable material is very welcome. Garfield tackles searching for peak performance, measuring results in real world scenarios, understanding self management and team development, change management and the ongoing challenges in keeping performance fresh and real.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS PhD
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
Hotel
by Arthur Hailey
In 1965, author Arthur Hailey wrote one of his best-known novels, HOTEL . This story was deep in detail, background, theme and character development. It offers reasonably accurate insights over a 5-day period in the life of an early 1960s independent, upscale hotel in New Orleans that is facing many challenges. The book addresses a number of American civil rights issues of the period, as well as contradicting stories of staff loyalty on one hand and dishonesty on the other. It tackles a number of business issues that remain current today, as well the matter of brand expansion in todayâ??s hotels versus operating as an independent.
John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Up the Organization: How to Stop the Organization From Stifling People and Strangling Profits
Comment: "This is a 30 year old classic I recently re-read for the 3rd time. It has logical and pragmatic approaches in bite size messages that remain timely.
Robert Townsend established himself and his company as the one "who tried harder" to meet customer needs. This book is an ABC manual of common sense business strategies beginning with Advertising and ending with Wearing out one's Welcome. He tackles nepotism, useless meetings, egos, in house politics, accountability and much more.
Townsend co-authored work with Tom Peters later in his career and one can see the influences they shared and believe in.
An excellent read- a classic!
Dr. John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com
"
The 100 Best Worldwide Vacations to Enrich Your Life
by Pam Grout
Comment: "An alternative in vacation mind set!
There is a growing trend in tourism, and that includes cultural and volunteerism options. This book provides readers with the opportunity to re-consider and evaluate vacation options.
The 100 locations include a significant list of alternatives that are listed in general categories:
1.arts & crafts
2.volunteer vacations
3.learning retreats
4.wellness escapes
The breakdown continues with options on eco-tourism,, vocation vacations, cross-cultural learning and much more.
This book is not for everyone and there were sections of little interest to me, but overall the message of this book is urge readers to consider alternatives globally.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com
Wednesday, Nov 24 2010
Have a Little Faith: A True Story
by Mitch Albom
Recommended
Comment: "Mitch Alborn has written a number of interesting books that could actually be considered short stories. His best known may be TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE, which is a biographical recount of his relationship with a favorite University professor who is enjoying every minute of his life despite an illness that will soon claim it.
HAVE A LITTLE FAITH has some of this same personal insights, as the now 80 year old religious leader of Alborn's childhood asks if Alborn will conduct his eulogy at the appropriate time. Alborn is puzzled, as they have had little interaction in more than 25 years since Alborn moved from NY to Detroit, but the story evolves into one the reader will appreciate and ponder. There are some very different aspects in this story when compared to MORRIE, but the ability of the author to move the reader to contrast some of their own personal insights make this well worth the time to read.
There are some puzzling segments in the book, but I strongly recommend this to anyone over the age of forty. Life moves at different speeds for each of us and the interaction of the three major characters in this story makes one consider personal values, commitments and life assessments.
As always, comments are always appreciated and valued.
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com"
Hospitality Industry Associations
John has read this book
Recommended
Tuesday, Aug 9
Winning Every Day
by Lou Holtz
John has read this book
Recommended
Comment: "A Motivating Message of Sincerity and Inspiration,
Winning Every Day
I had the opportunity to hear Lou Holtz as a keynote speaker a number of years ago,and I must say I was impressed by his message! While I knew a bit of his coaching background, I did not know much about the man, his beliefs or his approaches. This book is an illustration of his messages that day - inspiring, down-to-earth, focused and caring. Unlike some other speakers who deliver their same speech regardless of where they are, Holtz personalized his message to the audience and that is what this book does.
In 11 chapters, he outlines his style and love of coaching, but he focuses more on his attention to family, the athletes he sincerely cares about and the role of the university or team environment. He is amusing, but sincere. His stories about attitude, perseverance, standards, pride, the lessons learned in both winning and losing are heartfelt and real.
I looked at other reviews and some of them were a bit critical about Notre Dame details or grammar, but this book is more than a coach talking about wins and championships. This is a book about dealing with the challenges of reality in life as well as a sport and I find it excellent.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Winning Every Day
I had the opportunity to hear Lou Holtz as a keynote speaker a number of years ago,and I must say I was impressed by his message! While I knew a bit of his coaching background, I did not know much about the man, his beliefs or his approaches. This book is an illustration of his messages that day - inspiring, down-to-earth, focused and caring. Unlike some other speakers who deliver their same speech regardless of where they are, Holtz personalized his message to the audience and that is what this book does.
In 11 chapters, he outlines his style and love of coaching, but he focuses more on his attention to family, the athletes he sincerely cares about and the role of the university or team environment. He is amusing, but sincere. His stories about attitude, perseverance, standards, pride, the lessons learned in both winning and losing are heartfelt and real.
I looked at other reviews and some of them were a bit critical about Notre Dame details or grammar, but this book is more than a coach talking about wins and championships. This is a book about dealing with the challenges of reality in life as well as a sport and I find it excellent.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Wednesday, Jul 27
Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family
by Condoleezza Rice
John has read this book
Recommended
Comment: "Making Cultural Diversity Real
We often read or hear stories of people who overcame life challenges and sometimes those stories appear to be exaggerated or embellished. This is clearly NOT the case with former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in the stories she shares in her "Memoir of Family." Born and raised initially in the primarily race segregated US South, Rice quickly but interestingly shares the stories of her grandparents and how they dealt with some very hard issues. The book is only about 300 pages long and does not brag, although the author could have in a number of instances. She focuses on the values, commitment and lessons of her parents. She openly describes what must have been at times painful issues as a student and then as a professor.
I must share that I did not know a great deal about Secretary Rice, other than her high profile role in the Bush Presidency of 2001-2008. This book showed examples of courage, values, uncertainty, commitment and in believing in one's own worth and convictions over a lifetime. I did not realize her musical competencies, that she had been Provost at Stanford University and that she worked with the first President Bush at the historic time when the former Soviet Union was dismantling. She has made substantial contributions to global diplomacy and this book that honors her family says a great deal about her integrity.
In my career, I have participated in certain activities that addressed cultural diversity in a changing world, but Condoleezza Rice made it real.
An excellent book that should be read two or three chapters at a time and then set aside to let the messages sink in.
As always, comments are welcome and appreciated
John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
We often read or hear stories of people who overcame life challenges and sometimes those stories appear to be exaggerated or embellished. This is clearly NOT the case with former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in the stories she shares in her "Memoir of Family." Born and raised initially in the primarily race segregated US South, Rice quickly but interestingly shares the stories of her grandparents and how they dealt with some very hard issues. The book is only about 300 pages long and does not brag, although the author could have in a number of instances. She focuses on the values, commitment and lessons of her parents. She openly describes what must have been at times painful issues as a student and then as a professor.
I must share that I did not know a great deal about Secretary Rice, other than her high profile role in the Bush Presidency of 2001-2008. This book showed examples of courage, values, uncertainty, commitment and in believing in one's own worth and convictions over a lifetime. I did not realize her musical competencies, that she had been Provost at Stanford University and that she worked with the first President Bush at the historic time when the former Soviet Union was dismantling. She has made substantial contributions to global diplomacy and this book that honors her family says a great deal about her integrity.
In my career, I have participated in certain activities that addressed cultural diversity in a changing world, but Condoleezza Rice made it real.
An excellent book that should be read two or three chapters at a time and then set aside to let the messages sink in.
As always, comments are welcome and appreciated
John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
Tuesday, Jul 26
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
Tuesday, Jul 19
Joe Torre's Ground Rules for Winners: 12 Keys to Managing Team Players, Tough Bosses, Setbacks, and Success
by Joe Torre, Henry Dreher
Recommended
Comment: "The Significance of Leaders: A management lesson from The New York Yankees and team sports,By John Hogan "John Hogan HoganHospitality" (Phoenix AZ USA)
Joe Torre's Ground Rules for Winners: 12 Keys to Managing Team Players, Tough Bosses, Setbacks, and Success
The Significance of Leaders: A management lesson from the New York Yankees and team sports
______________________________
Leadership makes a huge difference in almost every facet of life. This is not meant to be a story about baseball or the Yankees (I grew up in New England, so we know where my loyalties are) but there are parallels between many business and sports activities, especially in those areas that require coordinated team efforts.
______________________________
Joe Torre managed the New York Yankees from 1996 to 2007.
* The Yankees reached the post season each year he managed and won ten American League East Division titles, six American League pennants, four World Series titles, and compiled a .605 winning percentage overall.
* With 2,326 wins, he is currently the 5th winningest manager in Major League Baseball History.
* Torre served as the Yankees manager under owner George Steinbrenner, who was famous for frequently firing his team's managers.
* Torre lasted 12 full seasons, managing 1,942 regular season games (with a won-loss record of 1173-767). This was by far the longest tenure for a Yankees skipper in the Steinbrenner era.
* Torre's was the second-longest managerial tenure in the club's history: only Joe McCarthy lasted longer.
______________________________
Over the same approximate time period as Torre managed the Yankees, the LA Dodgers did not win a single playoff series. In 2008, Torre left New York to coach the Dodgers.
Interesting to note the results: The Dodgers won their first post-season series in 20 years, while the Yankees missed the playoffs altogether.
Similar team members, but the change in leadership made the difference.
______________________________
This is an easy-to-read book that draws on Torre's experience in dealing with challenging situations in both management and players. In his years as the manager of the New York Yankees, Torre addresses dealing with difficult but talented players and how he worked to motivate them to focus more on TEAM than on personal records.
One can imagine how hard it might have been to deal with owner George Steinbrenner, but Torre shows some insights to the owner's goals and motivations in aiming to be the best.
Trust, optimism, commitment and communication are several of what Torre calls his 12 Keys to Managing.
A review of the 12 keys are worth the read.
As always, comments are always welcome.
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Joe Torre's Ground Rules for Winners: 12 Keys to Managing Team Players, Tough Bosses, Setbacks, and Success
The Significance of Leaders: A management lesson from the New York Yankees and team sports
______________________________
Leadership makes a huge difference in almost every facet of life. This is not meant to be a story about baseball or the Yankees (I grew up in New England, so we know where my loyalties are) but there are parallels between many business and sports activities, especially in those areas that require coordinated team efforts.
______________________________
Joe Torre managed the New York Yankees from 1996 to 2007.
* The Yankees reached the post season each year he managed and won ten American League East Division titles, six American League pennants, four World Series titles, and compiled a .605 winning percentage overall.
* With 2,326 wins, he is currently the 5th winningest manager in Major League Baseball History.
* Torre served as the Yankees manager under owner George Steinbrenner, who was famous for frequently firing his team's managers.
* Torre lasted 12 full seasons, managing 1,942 regular season games (with a won-loss record of 1173-767). This was by far the longest tenure for a Yankees skipper in the Steinbrenner era.
* Torre's was the second-longest managerial tenure in the club's history: only Joe McCarthy lasted longer.
______________________________
Over the same approximate time period as Torre managed the Yankees, the LA Dodgers did not win a single playoff series. In 2008, Torre left New York to coach the Dodgers.
Interesting to note the results: The Dodgers won their first post-season series in 20 years, while the Yankees missed the playoffs altogether.
Similar team members, but the change in leadership made the difference.
______________________________
This is an easy-to-read book that draws on Torre's experience in dealing with challenging situations in both management and players. In his years as the manager of the New York Yankees, Torre addresses dealing with difficult but talented players and how he worked to motivate them to focus more on TEAM than on personal records.
One can imagine how hard it might have been to deal with owner George Steinbrenner, but Torre shows some insights to the owner's goals and motivations in aiming to be the best.
Trust, optimism, commitment and communication are several of what Torre calls his 12 Keys to Managing.
A review of the 12 keys are worth the read.
As always, comments are always welcome.
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Friday, May 27
The Rules of Management, Expanded Edition: A Definitive Code for Managerial Success (Richard Templar's Rules)
by Richard Templar
John has read this book
Recommended
Comment: "A Great Resource for the Rising Professional and Mid-Level Manager of Today!
I hope readers of this review take my title to mean this is only for the rising professional- it can be a great refresher for any level of manager, but I find it to be a top notch resource for those who are on their way up.
A recap
* 227 pages , divided into two main sections:
1 - Managing Your Team and 2- Managing Yourself
* 106 "rules" dealing with hiring, motivating, disciplining, training, coaching and all that a manager should be doing regularly
* "Words of Wisdom" at the end of each of the two pages of "rules" that has a reflective quote or observation
I could expand my comments but I have discovered that brevity sometimes hits the mark better. This is a 5 Star Rating recommendation and its direct and to the point messages are well crafted and of real value.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
I hope readers of this review take my title to mean this is only for the rising professional- it can be a great refresher for any level of manager, but I find it to be a top notch resource for those who are on their way up.
A recap
* 227 pages , divided into two main sections:
1 - Managing Your Team and 2- Managing Yourself
* 106 "rules" dealing with hiring, motivating, disciplining, training, coaching and all that a manager should be doing regularly
* "Words of Wisdom" at the end of each of the two pages of "rules" that has a reflective quote or observation
I could expand my comments but I have discovered that brevity sometimes hits the mark better. This is a 5 Star Rating recommendation and its direct and to the point messages are well crafted and of real value.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
Employment Law: The Essential HR Desk Reference
by Lisa Guerin J.D.
John has read this book
Recommended
Comment: "An Excellent Quick Reference
This is the first NOLO resource I have seen and overall it is easy to read and follow.
The book itself is 357 pages and its A to Z reference style makes it easy to go directly to the topic you are looking for - IF you know the precise term. For example, if you are looking for "At Will" employment details, it is under E in the Employment Contract section, not A.
The other suggestion I would make on updates would be to include an index so the terms can be found a bit easier.
That being noted, the book itself does carry solid information on many issues that smaller companies may not be familiar with and can be used by any size organization for reference
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality ""
This is the first NOLO resource I have seen and overall it is easy to read and follow.
The book itself is 357 pages and its A to Z reference style makes it easy to go directly to the topic you are looking for - IF you know the precise term. For example, if you are looking for "At Will" employment details, it is under E in the Employment Contract section, not A.
The other suggestion I would make on updates would be to include an index so the terms can be found a bit easier.
That being noted, the book itself does carry solid information on many issues that smaller companies may not be familiar with and can be used by any size organization for reference
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality ""
The Rules of Management, Expanded Edition: A Definitive Code for Managerial Success (Richard Templar's Rules)
by Richard Templar
Recommended
Comment: "A Great Resource for the Rising Professional and Mid-Level Manager of Today!
I hope readers of this review take my title to mean this is only for the rising professional- it can be a great refresher for any level of manager, but I find it to be a top notch resource for those who are on their way up.
A recap
* 227 pages , divided into two main sections: 1 - Managing Your Team and 2- Managing Yourself
* 106 "rules" dealing with hiring, motivating, disciplining, training, coaching and all that a manager should be doing regularly
* "Words of Wisdom" at the end of each of the two pages of "rules" that has a reflective quote or observation
I could expand my comments but I have discovered that brevity sometimes hits the mark better. This is a 5 Star Rating recommendation and its direct and to the point messages are well crafted and of real value.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators HoganHospitality"
Employment Law: The Essential HR Desk Reference
by Lisa Guerin J.D.
Recommended Comment: "An Excellent Quick Reference
This is the first NOLO resource I have seen and overall it is easy to read and follow.
The book itself is 357 pages and its A to Z reference style makes it easy to go directly to the topic you are looking for - IF you know the precise term. For example, if you are looking for "At Will" employment details, it is under E in the Employment Contract section, not A.
The other suggestion I would make on updates would be to include an index so the terms can be found a bit easier.
That being noted, the book itself does carry solid information on many issues that smaller companies may not be familiar with and can be used by any size organization for reference
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality ""
Ubiquitous Computing for Business: Find New Markets, Create Better Businesses, and Reach Customers Around the World 24-7-365
by Bo Begole
4.0 out of 5 stars A Reasonable Approach for the Non-Technical Reader, May 21, 2011
By
John Hogan "John Hogan HoganHospitality" (Phoenix AZ USA)
This review is from: Ubiquitous Computing for Business: Find New Markets, Create Better Businesses, and Reach Customers Around the World 24-7-365 (Hardcover)
Bo Beguile, Ph.D authored this very solid business analysis of Ubiquitous Computing technologies. I am not one who is normally drawn to this topic or to technology related books, but I found this to be an understandable overview of how smart sensors and computers will affect the business and financial picture over the next decade.
I agree with another reviewer that perhaps the topic might have more general population focus and understanding if there has been additional pictorial and textual examples of how smart things everywhere are affecting our lives and businesses, but I feel Dr. Beguile's observations on identifying trends in technologies were very "real world"
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality "
Basketball Junkie: A Memoir
by Chris Herren, Bill Reynolds
Some books are very easy to read, regardless of the outcome. If the story line flows nicely, the message of the book is understood. I must say this book about a local athlete who does very well in some aspects before falling apart does not always flow as well as one would hope, but it is worth the read to learn the lesson.
First of all, I must share that I was born in the city where the story begins, and so have some familiarity with it. Fall River is a city in southern Massachusetts, about 50 miles south of Boston and 20 miles from Providence, RI . The City earned a positive reputation and was economically successful during the 19th century and early 20th century as the leading textile manufacturing center in the US, until the industry relocated to the South. The city has lost population continually, but Fall River's official motto of "We'll Try"( dating back to Great Fire of 1843) is perhaps a good setting for why the story has it's ups and downs.
Basketball Junkie is the story of Chris Herren, and of his life and ongoing interaction with basketball, beginning with his rather strong performance at Durfee, the largest public high school in the area. Part of the reason the book has challenges is somewhat in the way it addresses the reality of the story - Chris is portrayed as not a particularly happy person, despite his successes. He was a home town hero, and he played college ball at Boston College and then at Fresno State under the sometimes controversial Jerry Tarkanian. Herren was drafted in the 1999 NBA draft in the 2nd round by Denver. The story relays how even when he was traded and introduced at a press conference when he was signed by the hero team of his youth, the Boston Celtics, he was already on the way to a tremendous fall.
We have come to look to stories about sports figures to be that of role models and this is not the case. Herren played for professional sports with two US clubs, as well as international teams but it came to an end in late 2004, when Herren was charged with heroin possession and driving under the influence with a revoked license in Rhode Island.
Herren completed intensive rehabilitation programs and has been drug-free since June 2008 and sober since August 2008. In June of 2009, He launched Hoop Dreams to mentor players on and off the court and co-authored this book with Providence Journal columnist, Bill Reynolds
My initial comment was that the flow was a bit choppy, but to be fair, it was due to "telling it like it is." I want to share that I believe this book has some very positive factors:
1. It provides some real insights to struggles facing athletes in the spotlight
2. It is very accurate in regional settings around Fall River and surrounding areas, and comments accurately on struggles facing a city that is "trying" to turn itself around.
3. It clearly shows readers (and hopefully younger readers) of how easy it might be to get drawn into drugs
A final point I would like to share is found in the last chapter of the book. He expresses his deep appreciation for those who supported him in the hard times and explains some of his recovery and business interactions. To me, one of the best messages was his overwhelming gratitude to his wife Heather who stuck with him throughout all of the drama and situations.
This may not be the movie of the week version of a sports "hero", but learning about the human success is worth reading.
As always, comments and feedback are welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality "
Friday, May 13
What on Earth Have I Done?: Stories, Observations, and Affirmations
by Robert Fulghum
Comment: "3.0 out of 5 stars
A Partial Return to Form for a Great Storyteller, March 31, 2011
Over the years, we really enjoyed many of Fulghum's works. He is an exceptional storyteller, and made everyday events and places special through his colorful wording and viewpoints, which were often from the perspective of innocent youth.
The past two works were a bit less enjoyable, but we should all realize it is not easy to continue to write any type of commentary on a continuing basis and have it all be what the audience looks for. One need only look at Mark Twain, Charles Dickens, Jeffrey Archer and others to understand that.
As fan of Fulghum's wit and life observations, I was anticipating enjoying this book. Overall, the book is alright but not quite the same caliber as others. There is one chapter called "CONVERSATION LIFEBOATS" that is quite good and hits his high level of insight perfectly.
I titled this "A Partial Return to Form for a Great Storyteller" and I look forward to the full return and more great stories soon.
As always, comments and welcome and appreciated!
Dr. John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Effective Listening: Your Key to Career Success
4.0 out of 5 stars
A very different approach to searching for success - and one that can work, March 23, 2011
Effective Listening: Your Key to Career Success (Mass Market Paperback)
A very different approach to searching for success - and one that can work
I have been looking at books that have been around for awhile, as a number of them have very solid information. This book by Kevin Murphy takes an unusual approach to career success and I like its' simplicity.
The 18 chapters of the book are divided into 4 main sections:
1. An overview of what "listening" really is
2. Learning to listen
3. Listening needs in staff selection and training
4. The function and need for listening in effective management
The book contains a number of mini-quizzes that focus on select topics and they are excellent for creating self assessments. Finally, this short book includes a number of conclusions and teaching points that are also thought provoking, such as:
"What we hear is not always what is being communicated."
"The better you listen, the more you learn how little you know."
" We can't - our excuse to stop thinking."
"Too many meetings are a clear signal a company is in trouble."
As always, feedback is welcome
Dr. John Hogan CHE CHA CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitaliy
"
Friday, Feb 25
Take Action 18 Proven Strategies
by Susan Bixler and Lisa Scherrer Dugan
Recommended
Comment: "Proven Strategies in Times of Uncertainty
This is not a new bestseller, but one that has logical easy to follow best practices that remain current in the marketplace of 2011, as well as when it was first released eight years. These 18 strategies have merit, are worth consideration and offer practical steps. I am pleased to recommend it.
Dr. John Hogan CHE CHA CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Hotel Success Handbook - Practical Sales and Marketing ideas, actions, and tips to get results for your small hotel, B&B, or guest accommodation.
by Caroline Cooper, Lucy Whittington
Recommended
Comment: "A Solid Primer of Marketing & Sales Tips for the Small Hotel,
This review is from: Hotel Success Handbook - Practical Sales and Marketing ideas, actions, and tips to get results for your small hotel, B&B, or guest accommodation. (Paperback)
Caroline Cooper and Lucy Whittington from the United Kingdom have compiled an easy to read book of practical marketing and training ideas that target smaller hotels, B&Bs and inns. The book offers balanced suggestions on both traditional and online marketing and receives excellent reviews from a range of hospitality professionals in its opening pages.
There are 11 chapters that flow well:
- Chapter 1 addresses the traditional product, identifying your probable customer base
- Chapter 2 provides the foundation of developing a marketing plan and defining your competitive difference
- Chapter 3 reviews the fundamentals of what is essential in website development
- Chapter 4 offers a range of communication and promotional ideas for both online and traditional marketing
- Chapter 5 discusses the importance of establishing value in offerings
- Chapters 6 and 10 identify specific action steps for maximizing online promotions and collaborations in technology
- Chapters 7 and 9 review traditional marketing options and the need to present a "high touch" approach
- Chapter 8 includes an overview on the importance of networking
- The final chapter closes the loop with setting goals, creating the Hotel Success Plan and getting started
It is becoming more complicated to market and operate a smaller property and these two professionals have combined their background and experience to provide a a resource that delivers practical advice that one can use immediately.
As always, feedback or comments are welcome
John J Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
Peak Performers
by Charles Garfield
Comment: "One of the best researched and presented books on "Personal Power"
In this day of information overload, a book that logically and clearly demonstrates both interesting and believable material is very welcome. Garfield tackles searching for peak performance, measuring results in real world scenarios, understanding self management and team development, change management and the ongoing challenges in keeping performance fresh and real.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS PhD
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"
Hotel
by Arthur Hailey
In 1965, author Arthur Hailey wrote one of his best-known novels, HOTEL . This story was deep in detail, background, theme and character development. It offers reasonably accurate insights over a 5-day period in the life of an early 1960s independent, upscale hotel in New Orleans that is facing many challenges. The book addresses a number of American civil rights issues of the period, as well as contradicting stories of staff loyalty on one hand and dishonesty on the other. It tackles a number of business issues that remain current today, as well the matter of brand expansion in todayâ??s hotels versus operating as an independent.
John Hogan CHA CHE CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Up the Organization: How to Stop the Organization From Stifling People and Strangling Profits
Comment: "This is a 30 year old classic I recently re-read for the 3rd time. It has logical and pragmatic approaches in bite size messages that remain timely.
Robert Townsend established himself and his company as the one "who tried harder" to meet customer needs. This book is an ABC manual of common sense business strategies beginning with Advertising and ending with Wearing out one's Welcome. He tackles nepotism, useless meetings, egos, in house politics, accountability and much more.
Townsend co-authored work with Tom Peters later in his career and one can see the influences they shared and believe in.
An excellent read- a classic!
Dr. John Hogan CHA CHE
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com
"
The 100 Best Worldwide Vacations to Enrich Your Life
by Pam Grout
Comment: "An alternative in vacation mind set!
There is a growing trend in tourism, and that includes cultural and volunteerism options. This book provides readers with the opportunity to re-consider and evaluate vacation options.
The 100 locations include a significant list of alternatives that are listed in general categories:
1.arts & crafts
2.volunteer vacations
3.learning retreats
4.wellness escapes
The breakdown continues with options on eco-tourism,, vocation vacations, cross-cultural learning and much more.
This book is not for everyone and there were sections of little interest to me, but overall the message of this book is urge readers to consider alternatives globally.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com
Wednesday, Nov 24 2010
Have a Little Faith: A True Story
by Mitch Albom
Recommended
Comment: "Mitch Alborn has written a number of interesting books that could actually be considered short stories. His best known may be TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE, which is a biographical recount of his relationship with a favorite University professor who is enjoying every minute of his life despite an illness that will soon claim it.
HAVE A LITTLE FAITH has some of this same personal insights, as the now 80 year old religious leader of Alborn's childhood asks if Alborn will conduct his eulogy at the appropriate time. Alborn is puzzled, as they have had little interaction in more than 25 years since Alborn moved from NY to Detroit, but the story evolves into one the reader will appreciate and ponder. There are some very different aspects in this story when compared to MORRIE, but the ability of the author to move the reader to contrast some of their own personal insights make this well worth the time to read.
There are some puzzling segments in the book, but I strongly recommend this to anyone over the age of forty. Life moves at different speeds for each of us and the interaction of the three major characters in this story makes one consider personal values, commitments and life assessments.
As always, comments are always appreciated and valued.
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com"
Half Luck and Half Brains: The Kemmons Wilson, Holiday Inn Story
by Kemmons Wilson, Robert Kerr
Comment: "My
background is what academia refers to as 'Â?clinical"Â in nature and
several years ago, I addressed several classes at the Kemmons Wilson
School of Hospitality & Resort Management at the University of
Memphis in Tennessee. Having taught as an adjunct professor for 20 years
at three different colleges, I have always been comfortable as both an
academic and corporate educator, facilitating more than 3,400 classes
and programs.
The classes were interesting and as I was leaving, I spent a few minutes in the small museum type setting that includes some of Wilson's memorabilia. I was never employed at Holiday Inns, but living in Tennessee (then global headquarters for the brand) for more than 15 years certainly brought me into substantial contact with many people who had been. While Wilson was not a traditional hotelier by schooling or experience, he definitely influenced many business practices in franchising, brand support, standards and values.
Displayed in the lobby of the Wilson School of Hospitality & Resort Management at the University of Memphis are what he called his Steps for Success.
#10 included the title of his book: Remember that success requires 'Half Luck and Half Brains'. He uses his 20 Steps as episodes and illustrations. I found the content of this book to be quite interesting and not the frequent 'bragging' that some biographies lean towards. Written by Wilson at age 83, he shares his 'Â?better way'Â of offering affordable lodging in understandable and practical lessons. The book also includes more than 100 photographs of family, business partners and unique scenes in the evolution of Holiday Inns in the days before the industry became involved in heavy mergers and the danger of the industry becoming viewed as a commodity.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
The classes were interesting and as I was leaving, I spent a few minutes in the small museum type setting that includes some of Wilson's memorabilia. I was never employed at Holiday Inns, but living in Tennessee (then global headquarters for the brand) for more than 15 years certainly brought me into substantial contact with many people who had been. While Wilson was not a traditional hotelier by schooling or experience, he definitely influenced many business practices in franchising, brand support, standards and values.
Displayed in the lobby of the Wilson School of Hospitality & Resort Management at the University of Memphis are what he called his Steps for Success.
#10 included the title of his book: Remember that success requires 'Half Luck and Half Brains'. He uses his 20 Steps as episodes and illustrations. I found the content of this book to be quite interesting and not the frequent 'bragging' that some biographies lean towards. Written by Wilson at age 83, he shares his 'Â?better way'Â of offering affordable lodging in understandable and practical lessons. The book also includes more than 100 photographs of family, business partners and unique scenes in the evolution of Holiday Inns in the days before the industry became involved in heavy mergers and the danger of the industry becoming viewed as a commodity.
As always, comments are welcome
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
"
Sunday, Sep 12
In Their Time: The Greatest Business Leaders of the Twentieth Century
by Anthony J. Mayo, Nitin Nohria
Comment: "This book's title is right on the money!
I expected that a book on business leadership published by the Harvard Business School would be solid reading and I was anticipating the traditional 10 Best with honorable mentions. I was very pleased to find MUCH more - 10 chapters reflecting the 10 decades with excellent insights to the world at large and how people thought at the time and looking ahead.
This book describes 100 people in many different roles, industries and with varying perspectives. Well done!
As always, comments are appreciated and welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HoganHospitality
HospitalityEducators "
I expected that a book on business leadership published by the Harvard Business School would be solid reading and I was anticipating the traditional 10 Best with honorable mentions. I was very pleased to find MUCH more - 10 chapters reflecting the 10 decades with excellent insights to the world at large and how people thought at the time and looking ahead.
This book describes 100 people in many different roles, industries and with varying perspectives. Well done!
As always, comments are appreciated and welcome
John Hogan, CHA CHE
HoganHospitality
HospitalityEducators "
Thursday, Aug 19
First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently
by Marcus Buckingham, Curt Coffman
Comment: "A reminder that one size does not fit all!
This book has been in the marketplace for ten years and is published by Gallup, which has credibility but at times can be a bit self-aggrandizing. The research and conclusions reached by Buckingham and Coffman however are direct, easy to follow and meaningful.
I find the two best conclusions as follows:
1. Spend the Most Time with your best people - this section in pages 153-172 are the heart and soul of finding results
2. Master Keys p 235-238 What can the company do to create a friendly climate for great managers?
A solid read, with messages that make sense - well done!
John Hogan CHA CHE MHS
Co-author; LESSONS FROM THE FIELD - A COMMON SENSE APPROACH TO EFFECTIVE HOTEL SALES
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com"
This book has been in the marketplace for ten years and is published by Gallup, which has credibility but at times can be a bit self-aggrandizing. The research and conclusions reached by Buckingham and Coffman however are direct, easy to follow and meaningful.
I find the two best conclusions as follows:
1. Spend the Most Time with your best people - this section in pages 153-172 are the heart and soul of finding results
2. Master Keys p 235-238 What can the company do to create a friendly climate for great managers?
A solid read, with messages that make sense - well done!
John Hogan CHA CHE MHS
Co-author; LESSONS FROM THE FIELD - A COMMON SENSE APPROACH TO EFFECTIVE HOTEL SALES
HospitalityEducators com
HoganHospitality com"
Saturday, Jul 24
84, Charing Cross Road
by Helene Hanff
Comment: "A top notch message on networking, values and people
This book (which was later made into a good movie with Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft)is set in the post World War II era. For us boomers, we thought that everything came back to normal quickly after the war, but this story shares some of the ongoing hardships encountered by Europeans during the next decade of rebuilding. Shortages of certain every day foods, stockings and what we think of every day items were evident.
The story of an American woman who is always searching for certain old book classics and the staff of a small English independent book shop is detailed, interesting and at times moving. As time moves along, two of the principal characters continue to communicate by letter but they never meet. I don't want to give away the ending, but this is a story on networking and people caring in times past. Well done!
John Hogan
HoganHospitality
HospitalityEducators "
This book (which was later made into a good movie with Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft)is set in the post World War II era. For us boomers, we thought that everything came back to normal quickly after the war, but this story shares some of the ongoing hardships encountered by Europeans during the next decade of rebuilding. Shortages of certain every day foods, stockings and what we think of every day items were evident.
The story of an American woman who is always searching for certain old book classics and the staff of a small English independent book shop is detailed, interesting and at times moving. As time moves along, two of the principal characters continue to communicate by letter but they never meet. I don't want to give away the ending, but this is a story on networking and people caring in times past. Well done!
John Hogan
HoganHospitality
HospitalityEducators "
Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln: 21 Powerful Secrets of History's Greatest Speakers
by James C. Humes
Comment: "This
is a reasonably good resource on preparing for and delivering speeches.
It is a bit dated in some of its examples, but does offer almost two
dozen short chapters dealing with delivering powerful messages
effectively.
Readers should be aware the author is direct and above board in his admitted bias toward one political party, but that is understandable considering he interacted with five US presidents.
John Hogan
HoganHospitality com
HospitalityEducators com "
Readers should be aware the author is direct and above board in his admitted bias toward one political party, but that is understandable considering he interacted with five US presidents.
John Hogan
HoganHospitality com
HospitalityEducators com "
Less Is More: How Great Companies Use Productivity
by Jason Jennings
Comment: "Jason
Jennings is one of those people who communicates well both in a speech
and on paper. This book, published in the now seemingly distant past
(2002), shares "people in successful companies" stories and how they do
it. The examples he quoted remain solid performers almost a decade
later and the reason remains the same: the leadership of certain
companies are continuously committed to serving their customers
profitably, but not at the expense of their staff. The message is
clear, simply stated and unfortunately overlooked by so many
organizations. I read this book about 4 years ago and it is as fresh
today - so fresh, that I intend to make it's message into a future
workshop.
Your comments and feedback are always welcome!
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
Your comments and feedback are always welcome!
John Hogan
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality
Friday, Jul 2
Think Big, Act Small : How America's Best Performing Companies Keep the Start-up Spirit Alive
by Jason Jennings
Comment: "The answer to business success is in the title!
I have found that a great deal of research does not contribute to the improvement of process or people, but tends to be credited towards tenure or supporting a position already espoused by an organization. The information shared in this book offers a wonderful option to research, in that in provides real world solutions to real world problems.
The Jennings research analyzed more than 100,000 companies to find the characteristics of success that may elude many of us. The group discovered practical approaches to achieving consistency in performance, revenues, team work and results. There are specific action steps that can be evaluated and replicated, which is what I consider the purpose of research.
I had the opportunity to hear a portion of a Jennings keynote once - he is dynamic and interesting.
John Hogan HoganHospitality com HospitalityEducators com
"
I have found that a great deal of research does not contribute to the improvement of process or people, but tends to be credited towards tenure or supporting a position already espoused by an organization. The information shared in this book offers a wonderful option to research, in that in provides real world solutions to real world problems.
The Jennings research analyzed more than 100,000 companies to find the characteristics of success that may elude many of us. The group discovered practical approaches to achieving consistency in performance, revenues, team work and results. There are specific action steps that can be evaluated and replicated, which is what I consider the purpose of research.
I had the opportunity to hear a portion of a Jennings keynote once - he is dynamic and interesting.
John Hogan HoganHospitality com HospitalityEducators com
"
Tuesday, Jun 22
Tourism and the Lodging Sector
by Dallen J. Timothy, Victor B. Teye
Recommended
Comment: "This
book takes a different perspective from many that address hospitality,
in that it focuses substantially on the parallels of lodging and tourism
and the financial impact they have on each other. It provides
international perspectives on security, high tech, globalization,
sustainability and more. While this book clearly is a resource for
students, it makes interesting reading as it links the two topics of
lodging and tourism. I have met the author, and he is enthusiastically
committed to expanding a greater understanding of the impact of tourism.
He has a sense of humor as well, dramatized by the last chapter which
highlights novelty and alternative lodging examples"
Russell Rules: 11 Lessons on Leadership From the Twentieth Century's Greatest Winner
by Bill Russell, David Falkner
Comment: "Bill
Russell became a sports icon with reason. He is an original, with more
championships than any other team player as evidenced by his recognition
in being named the 20th century's greatest team player by Sports
Illustrated and HBO called him the greatest winner in the 20th century.
He was the 1st African American to coach a professional sports team and
won two championships as a player/coach without even an assistant coach.
He won championships in the NCAA, the Olympics and an NBA championship
â?? all in the same year (1956).
In 2001, Russell and co-author David Faulkner united to produce an interesting series of insights of the fundamentals that molded Russell's competitive aptitude and zeal into a series of consistent winning seasons
The book, RUSSELL RULES â?? 11 Lessons on Leadership from the Twentieth Centuryâ??s Greatest Winner is a collection of basketball and personal examples from Russell's career. The balance between sports, business and personal integrity is clear, easy to follow and is genuinely interesting, whether one likes sports or not.
The 11 lessons address commitment, team decision processes, accountability, change, discipline, the need for the desire to win and a number of â??how-to business examplesâ?
Bill Russell has not been an active part of the Celtics in recent years, but in a televised interview with the current center, Kevin Garnett, one could hear that his public words of counsel and planning reflected what must have been said in private between the two men of different generations. Russell expressed that he felt the current Celtic team could win two or three championships if they played as a team, but that Russell would share one of his rings with Garnett if that did not happen. After the 39 point blow-out final victory over the favored opponents, Garnett on camera hugged Russell and expressed that he hoped Russell felt the current Celtics had done their best.
Those exchanges were meaningful to me as part of team, leadership and accountability in every day examples of life.
The book epilogue has an outstanding message â?? making â??CELTIC PRIDE work for youâ?. I urge you to read this resource and enjoy!
Feel free to share an idea at johnjhogan@yahoo.com anytime or contact me regarding consulting, customized workshops or speaking engagements"
In 2001, Russell and co-author David Faulkner united to produce an interesting series of insights of the fundamentals that molded Russell's competitive aptitude and zeal into a series of consistent winning seasons
The book, RUSSELL RULES â?? 11 Lessons on Leadership from the Twentieth Centuryâ??s Greatest Winner is a collection of basketball and personal examples from Russell's career. The balance between sports, business and personal integrity is clear, easy to follow and is genuinely interesting, whether one likes sports or not.
The 11 lessons address commitment, team decision processes, accountability, change, discipline, the need for the desire to win and a number of â??how-to business examplesâ?
Bill Russell has not been an active part of the Celtics in recent years, but in a televised interview with the current center, Kevin Garnett, one could hear that his public words of counsel and planning reflected what must have been said in private between the two men of different generations. Russell expressed that he felt the current Celtic team could win two or three championships if they played as a team, but that Russell would share one of his rings with Garnett if that did not happen. After the 39 point blow-out final victory over the favored opponents, Garnett on camera hugged Russell and expressed that he hoped Russell felt the current Celtics had done their best.
Those exchanges were meaningful to me as part of team, leadership and accountability in every day examples of life.
The book epilogue has an outstanding message â?? making â??CELTIC PRIDE work for youâ?. I urge you to read this resource and enjoy!
Feel free to share an idea at johnjhogan@yahoo.com anytime or contact me regarding consulting, customized workshops or speaking engagements"
Biography - Conrad Hilton: Innkeeper to the World (DVD)
The name "Hilton" may have been somewhat devalued
in the past ten years, which was caused by the antics of great-granddaughter
Paris and the sale of the entire brand and company to a venture capital group.
Regardless of these actions which occurred well after the founder's death, this
Biography is well done. 
Conrad Hilton was born in the 19th century to parents who greatly influenced
his life. His mother instilled a sense of commitment to values and organized
religion (Catholicism) and his father provided his son with an inner drive to
success.
This biography may whitewash some of Hilton's personal shortcomings, but it
does clearly outline Hilton's initial failures in the public realm as a
legislator, banker, retail operator and oilman. It shows his commitments to his
guests and suppliers in the early days of the Depression, when he maintained
his strong feeling not to declare bankruptcy as a means to solve his liquidity
problems, which was the action taken by almost all of his competitors. The
video demonstrates that it was this position that eventually gave Hilton the
lead in the years following the Depression and WWII when the country was
rebuilding.
I found his values and continuing drive to try new venues to be a fresh
perspective in the current economic environment.
Feedback is always welcome. John Hogan HoganHospitality.com HotelEducators.com
_________________________________________________________________________
A Game Plan for Life: The Power of Mentoring John Wooden
Co-authored books by sports personalities often tend to take the approach of sharing career highlights and victories, which are meant to motivate the rest of us.
60 days ago, I offered a very positive review of WOODEN ON LEADERSHIP, and I am delighted to provide an additional one for a very different book. In A GAME PLAN FOR LIFE - THE POWER OF MENTORING, Wooden and co-author Don Yaeger do not share war stories but fundamental and valuable life lessons.
Wooden shares what he views as truly powerful in the examples of 7 people who mentored him and 7 others that he passed it forward to.
As in some of his other books, he shares his 15 POWERS OF THE PYRAMID, which continue to impress me (p.84) as a recommendation to individuals and executives who are looking for ways to lead people to "victory" and success in the "game" of life.
Feedback is always welcome
John Hogan
HoganHospitality com
HospitalityEducators com
_______________________________________________________________
When You Come to a Fork in the Road, Take It!:
Inspiration and Wisdom From One of Baseball's Greatest Heroes Yogi Berra
Spring means baseball and memories of classic characters.
While he was before my time, Yogi Berra has always been an American
personality. His limited formal education did not hold him back, as is
evidenced by his many rather homespun stories and anecdotes.
I try to alternate serious reading with others that have some light-hearted
messages about life. Yogi is a "one of a kind" spokesperson and
reading this book with all of his amusing statements makes one smile.
John Hogan
HoganHospitality com
HospitalityEducators com
_______________________________________________________________
Wooden on Leadership
"The word "dynasty" is
seldom used in contemporary time, but John Wooden created two in his
career. One was as coach of the UCLA men's basketball team, where the
teams won 10 national championships in 12 years, including four perfect
seasons and 88 consecutive victories. The other was achieved as a
leader who inspired and developed outstanding talent and character among
the hundreds of student athletes, coaches and others who were involved
on those teams.
This book shares with readers Wooden's 15
Fundamental Leadership Qualities and includes many of his best
observations from teamwork to focus to dealing with defeat. In the
foreword, former player and obvious admirer Bill Walton says this book
is "Wooden's blueprint for achieving success as a leader in business,
basketball or anything else."
John Wooden is approaching his
100th birthday as I share my observations and he certainly has left his
legacy.
_______________________________________________________________
Joe Calloway
Indispensable:
How To Become The Company That Your Customers Can't Live Without
Building customer loyalty today requires far more than good service, competitive pricing and attentive sales contacts. In the rapidly changing global market, avoiding the dangers of becoming a commodity is reaching critical stages of reality.
Calloway uses
believable case studies and interviews with real people to introduce his
drivers of success. These are used as illustrations to encourage
readers drastically change their service approaches to become the
clients' first and only choice. " _______________________________________________________________
"Covey has provided a focus to many people around the world with his 7 Habits of Highly Effective People book series. His identification of the "BIG ROCKS" visualization of prioritizing has encouraged many readers to better understand how to manage expectations and improve our effectiveness.
This book title implies a business emphasis, but I find it to be a very balanced message on the two fronts addressed: 1- Personal and Interpersonal Effectiveness and 2-Managerial and Organizational Development.
Like
the other Covey books I have read, this one can be appreciated in whatever
amount of time the reader wants to devote. Whether you read two chapters or 200
pages in one sitting, the lessons are there to be learned!"
"I have had the privilege of hearing Dale speak at a business meeting where he spoke on a number of topics. One of those topics related to a message in this book - how to hire GREAT people. He stated what he felt was the best and only employment policy for successful companies was “The best place for the best people to work".
This
to-the-point 109 page book has a number of memorable lessons, including THE SIX
REALITIES OF GIFTED BOSSES & GREAT EMPLOYEES. Harvey Mackay, Dave Thomas and others are on
the jacket endorsing this message for a reason - it makes sense."
"Marc Clark has been
involved as an enthusiastic ambassador for HR and training teams the past 30
years at many different hospitality organizations including several large
restaurant chains, the Educational Institute of AH&LA and the Gaylord
Opryland Hotel.
He
has presented workshops around the world for varied clients including major
international hotel brands, hospitality associations, professional associations
and universities. Details are available at LinkedIn or
http://www.smartbizzonline.com/
"The name Marriott has become an icon in hospitality and deservedly so. The company has evolved from humble beginnings almost a century ago to one today that appears on almost every "best of list".
This book is an easy to follow templates of sound management practices, of how to provide sincere attention to both customers and associates and maintaining value.
I quoted a number of the organization's recent accomplishments in a column on social responsibility INNOVATION AND CHANGE http://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4045016.html
Well
done, Marriott family and associates."
"This book offers readers insights and examples of how to differentiate one's service or product from the others. At a time when so many organizations are offering "me, too" copies, this book shares practical information on dealing with the danger of being perceived as a commodity.
I
interacted with Joe Calloway when I was working in Tennessee and later when he
was a keynote speaker at a national conference. Joe is the "real
thing" and this is one of several of his books on approaches to standing
out in a crowded marketplace."
If you are interested in having me work with your organization, please contact me at info@hoganhospitality.com
Contact me for
ideas on proven ways to help you and your teams focus on Hotel
Profitability, Hotel Guest Service, Hotel Marketing and Hotel Operations
Your Hospitality Resource for Hotel Owners, Innkeepers, Managers and Associations
How to Argue & Win Every Time: At Home, At Work, In Court, Everywhere, Everyday
Gerry Spence
The title of this book is a little deceptive by design, because it is not really as much about â??arguingâ? as much as it is about communicating.
Gerry Spence, a liberal leaning, very successful lawyer uses the word â?argumentâ? in the overall position of all communication in everything we express, be it a courtroom, coaching a youth team, teaching or just everyday interactions
Spence's opening sentence is that â??the art of arguing is the art of living. We argue because we must, because life demands it; because life itself is a argument.â? Spence opines that learning to argue is a mindset that gives one permission to get beyond the fear factor felt by all of us at one point or another. He offers the position that skilled arguments are not self-serving, but a means to show positive outcomes. A good argument is one in which the greatest good is served.
There are 16 chapters in three main parts:
1. Readying ourselves to Win
2. Delivering the Winning Argument
3. Arguments in Love and War
Part One Addresses Power
Understanding Power
Power of Credibility
Power of Listening
Power of Prejudice
Power of Words
Part Two is more about Strategy
Structuring the Winning Argument
Opening them up
Delivering the Winning Argument
The Magical Argument
The Unbeatable Power Argument
Part Three is more personal
The love relationship
Kids
The Workplace
The Responsibility of Being
I concur with earlier reviews that this is an excellent book those involved in regular negotiations. At times, his negotiating manner appears to have the simple manner of TV lawyer Matlock, but this style is powerful.
Understanding and learning about different styles of negotiating is a benefit in reading this book S-L-O-W-L-Y because its simple message needs to be digested in pieces
Gerry Spence (1929- ) In 2008, he announced he would retire, at age 79, Spence states that he has never lost a criminal case either as a prosecutor or a defense attorney. He has not lost a civil case since 1969.
As always, feedback or comments are welcome
Dr. John Hogan CHE CHA CMHS
HospitalityEducators
HoganHospitality"