The Platinum Rule: Discover the Four Basic Business Personalities--And How They Can Lead to Success

by Michael J. O'Connor, Anthony J. Alessandra, Michael O'Connor

Book Overview

In this entertaining and thought-provoking book, Tony Alessandra and Michael O'Connor argue that the "Golden Rule" is not always the best way to approach people. Rather, they propose the Platinum Rule: "Do unto others as "they'd" like done unto them". In other words, find out what makes people tick and go from there.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0446673439
• ISBN13: 9780446673433
• Release Date: February 1998
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.58 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.2" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

"It's about you, not me"

The premise is simple: "Do unto others as they'd like done unto them." The classic "Golden Rule" involves a perspective bias, the implicit selfishness of which can and will wreck your interactions with others. Even if you think you have the very best intentions, you'll unwittingly sabotage your objectives. By learning and applying the "Platinum Rule," you'll greatly improve the quality and effectiveness of your interactions with others. So, how do you know what others would like do unto them? Ask them! Seriously, that's of course a necessary part, but the authors give very thorough treatment of the subject so the reader will know how to step into the worlds of others. They describe and discuss the four basic personality types and impart valuable knowledge about numerous blends of multiple types: * Directors * Relaters * Socializers * Thinkers The book features twelve chapters: 1. Has the Golden Rule Lost its Glitter? 2. Getting to Know the Four Basic Styles 3. How to Tell Where You Fit In 4. The Key to Getting a Quick Handle on Anybody 5. How the Read the Mixed Styles 6. Coping Productively with the Other Styles 7. How to Adapt to Anyone...and Retain Your Own Identity 8. Using Individual Differences to Bring Out the Best in Groups 9. Creating a High-Performance Leadership Style 10. How to Sell by Style 11. Providing Service with Style 12. Changing the Rest of Your Life by Creating Positive Relationships Each is excellent. Two quick examples of things that particularly resonated with me: * Great discussion and example of the meaning and importance of adaptability (Ch. 7, pp. 131-133) * Striking example and analysis of a sales environment and the ramifications of not fitting your sales style to the customer This book is easy to read, practical, and powerful. I think everybody would benefit from reading and therefore highly recommend it to anyone.

The golden rule... to the next level

The basic premise is that you should treat others not as you would want to be treated but how THEY would like to be treated. And the manner of treatment that they prefer may differ drastically from the manner of treatment that you may like. This is so obvious in its' simplicity I had to kick myself for not thinking of it on my own.Now the real key is the ability to identify the differing personality types. The book has a very straightforward methodology for determining the 4 basic personality types and associated subtypes. Once you can classify individuals into the major types it becomes much easier to identify the most effective methods for dealing. Many of which are explored in the book.When I read the book originally I was working for a startup company with one chief executive, a marketing director, myself the technology director, a chief financial officer, and others. I was shocked at how accurately the book described each of us as we related to the major personality types. I only wish that I had come upon this text prior to this experience as it would have helped me immensely in dealing with each of these individuals.This is a very important and practical text for anyone who has to deal with diverse styles and motivations either in business or in their personal lives.

There is another dimension.

"As Chairman of the Bethel Institute, I recommend The Platinum Rule by Dr. Tony Alessandra, my clients all find it to be most useful. However, there is another dimension I'd like to suggest. I have six adult children and each is married. I have given the book to each one as a guide to a happier marriage. Tony has given us a tool to build relationships, understand ourselves, our partners and our children. Our most important and endearing relationships are at home. It seems appropriate to have a book of this magnitude to guide us in our efforts to achieve a happier personal life." Sheila Murrary Bethel, Chairman, Bethel Institute, Author: Making A Difference, 12 Qualities That Make You A Leader

"The Platinum Rule" will teach you how to read people."

"From an HR point of view ,"personality" is the most dangerous word in business.From a sales point of view, "Personality" often makes the difference between sales success and sales failure. "The Platinum Rule" will teach you how to read personality and make it work for you in your career and your life. Get it now!"Thomas W. Faranda

There is another dimension.

"As Chairman of the Bethel Institute, I recommend ThePlatinum Rule by Dr. Tony Alessandra, my clients all find it to be most useful. However, there is another dimension I'd like to suggest. I have six adult children and each is married. I have given the book to each one as a guide to a happier marriage. Tony has given us a tool to build relationships, understand ourselves, our p Our most important and endearing relationships are at home. It seems appropriate to have a book of this magnitude to guide us in our efforts to achieve a happier personal life." Author: Making A Difference, 12 Qualities That Make You A Leader