It's What We Do Together That Counts: The BIC Alliance Story

By Earl Heard

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0976831007
• ISBN13: 9780976831006
• Release Date: January 2005
• Publisher: Mascot Books
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.0" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Advice for entrepreneur from a man who has been there

Reviewed by Mary Simmons for Reader Views (9/06) In this book about faith and the road to success, author Earl Heard, the founder and CEO of the BIC Alliance, tells how he and his network of family, friends and colleagues were able to build what is described as one of America's largest multi-industrial, multi-departmental strategic marketing firms. Throughout the book, Heard maintains that hard work is the key to overcoming any difficult situation. Anyone taking on a business venture must stick with it through the hard times and remember the important role others will play in their success or failure. He encourages everyone to be grateful and kind to those who are traveling with them on their journey. In the first part of the book Heard shares the BIC Alliance story, while in the second part he goes on to share sources of inspiration. Some of these are the personal lessons he learned through his own experience launching a business, while others come from experts in their field, including executives, entrepreneurs and other business and industry representatives. Among these pieces of advice are 100 tips for achieving peace, happiness and success in which he lists God, family, friendship and kindness as top priorities. Heard says having a positive attitude in life can make all the difference. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects in our jobs and personal lives, we should concentrate on all of the fulfilling moments. He also says the keys to management and sales success are hard work, perseverance, learning, networking, asking questions and being courteous. While I respect the author's choice not to dwell on the hardships he faced or to go into detail on these matters for personal reasons, I have to say that, as a reader, the story would probably have been more interesting if it had been fleshed out with these events. We all find ourselves in situations where we feel overwhelmed and hearing how others have risen above similar circumstances can be more inspirational than tips for success. With nothing of substance to back them up, these tips can read like mere platitudes that are easier said than done. Although the sentiment behind them is sound, they fall flat, in my opinion. I found myself wanting to hear about the author's heartache and grief, not because I take pleasure in other people reliving their pain, but because I find it more relatable on many levels. An emotional connection to another human being is often the most powerful experience one can have and it can lead to life-changing affirmations. While I don't believe that "It's What We Do Together That Counts" will have an impact on my personal or professional life, others who are heading into an entrepreneurial project may find it inspirational and helpful. Books are often subjective and we should use as many resources as possible when trying to achieve our goals.