Author: John G. Miller

Publisher: Putnam Adult

Pub. in:  

ISBN: 0399152954

Pages: 144

Measurements: 8.5 x 5.8 x 0.7 inches

Origin of product: USA

Order code: BA00121

Other information:  

In his previous book, QBQ! The Question Behind the Question, John G. Miller shows how to change our thinking by asking questions in a different way.

In Flipping the Switch, Miller provides more examples on how to ask questions to hold ourselves accountable in work and life. Doing this leads to five advantages Miller calls the Advantage Principles: Learning, Ownership, Creativity, Service, Trust. The book takes only an hour to read and quickly pulls someone out of the doldrums and changes them into a ball of energy, hence Flipping the Switch. Asking QBQ helps us avoid becoming defensive and pointing fingers and changes a person's thinking from 'It's her fault' to 'How can I fix this?' This follow-up book divides the examples into the five advantage principles to demonstrate how each principle works. It's not necessary to read QBQ! before reading this one as the concept is easily recaptured, but QBQ! is also a fast and enjoyable read and seeing more examples gives you more ideas on how to ask the question in a different way. Whenever you feel down or frustrated, grab this book and get instantly energized, ready to tackle anything that comes your way. Changing habits usually doesn't happen quickly, but QBQ can. Spend one hour with this book and save hours of needless aggravation and wasted time on handling things the wrong way. (An American reader)

This book scared the hell out me. The pitch is that consumers are increasing in complexity. They want everything from simple commodities to manufactured goods to what the authors call experiences - immersive, richly textured commercial events. And fast-paced business types better follow or they'll be left in the dust.

The patron saint here is Walt Disney: Coffee shops should focus on the coffee experience, the authors suggest, while restaurants need to realize that the music and the ambiance - entertainment, as the authors label it – are as important as the food.

The book is well written and I liked its fanatical conviction. The authors cheerfully acknowledge that even the most sacred experiences can be turned into a fast buck for faster companies. (They point out that many Americans now seek advice not from their priests and religious leaders, but from paid "spiritual coaches.") I'd love to think this is an elaborate spoof on the absurdity of late-state capitalism, but I'm afraid Pine and Gilmore are absolutely serious when they conclude that "The Consumer Is the Product." God help us all.

(From quoting Michael Parsons, USA)

Target readers: Managers, entrepreneurs, professionals, HDR professionals, corporate trainers, consultants, parents, and anyone else long for continuous personal improvement.