Jan 16
“How to Win Friends & Influence People” | Dale Carnegie
Book Review
“How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a self-help classic that has stood the test of time since its first publication in 1936. This book is a comprehensive guide that offers practical advice on how to improve one’s social skills and relationships with others. The book covers topics such as fundamental techniques in handling people, ways to make people like you, winning people over to your way of thinking, and being a leader without giving offense or arousing resentment. This book was initially suggested by my mentor at work and it is one of the best books I have ever read. In this review, I will delve into the key takeaways from the book, the author’s writing style, and its relevance in today’s world.
The book is divided into four sections: “Fundamental Techniques in Handling People,” “Six Ways to Make People Like You,” “How to Win People to Your Way of Thinking,” and “Be a Leader: How to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment.” Each section is filled with practical advice and real-life examples that illustrate the principles outlined in the book.
Carnegie’s writing style is engaging and easy to read. He uses personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate the points he makes, making the book feel like a conversation with a friend rather than a lecture. He also includes quotes from famous people throughout the book, which adds credibility to the advice he offers.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the importance of understanding and empathizing with others. Carnegie stresses the importance of listening actively and being genuinely interested in the people we interact with. He also emphasizes the importance of being a good communicator and using positive language to build rapport with others.
Another important theme in the book is the importance of tact and diplomacy when dealing with others. Carnegie offers practical advice on how to disagree with others in a respectful and non-confrontational way, and how to give constructive criticism without offending or alienating others.
Overall, “How to Win Friends & Influence People” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their social skills and build stronger relationships with others. Carnegie’s advice is timeless and practical, making it a must-read for anyone looking to improve their communication and leadership skills.
In summary, the book is a timeless classic, and provides practical advice on how to improve one’s social skills and relationships with others. It is well-written, engaging, and easy to read, making it a must-read for anyone looking to improve their communication and leadership skills.
Quotes from the Book
- “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”
- “When dealing with people, let us remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic. We are dealing with creatures of emotion, creatures bristling with prejudices and motivated by pride and vanity.”
- “The only way to get the best of an argument is to avoid it.”
- “If you want to win friends, make it a point to remember them. If you remember my name, you pay me a subtle compliment; you indicate that I have made an impression on you. Remember my name and you add to my feeling of importance.”
- “The only way to persuade people is to talk in terms of what the other person wants.”
- “The only way to get the best of an argument is to avoid it.”
- “If you want to influence people, you must talk in terms of the things they are interested in.”
- “A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”
- “You can close more business in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get people interested in you.”
- “When we are listening to people, it is essential that we understand the words they are saying, but it is equally important that we understand the emotions that lie behind the words.”
