Get Them To See It Your Way, Right Away: How to Persuade Anyone of Anything by Ruth Sherman - Bev Russell, Library Director

(This column appeared in the January 1, 2006, Star-Herald)

Let me begin by saying that Ms. Sherman overstated her case in the title. If a reader hopes (as I did) that by reading this book they will be able to persuade anyone of anything, they will come away disappointed. However, if a reader’s aim is to become a better communicator and more valued as an employee or friend, this might be the right book.

Get Them To See It Your Way, Right Away is really about how to improve communication skills in all types of settings—formal and informal, public and private. Ms. Sherman provides guidance for those who speak in public and make formal presentations and for those who simply want to communicate better at work or at home.

Chapters contain charts, helpful hints, and questionnaires all aimed improving the communication skills of the reader. Communication skills include talking, writing, reading and listening. Ms. Sherman believes that good communicators are made and not born and that communication techniques can be taught to those willing to learn. I found

The charts and forms, which were provided, to be useful. Also, permission is given to make copies of these materials. The chapters on listening skills, questioning techniques, formal presentations, voicemail, and email were most helpful to me. Each chapter ends with a summary of "Ruth’s Truths" for easy reference.

Can I now persuade anyone of anything? Probably not.  However, I can become a better communicator.

 

 

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