Here’s that old book I recommend…

This is such a classic book that will stand the test of time for thousands of years.

I think one of the most important things I’ve learned from that book and your writing/wisdom over the years is to enjoy the time in the trenches with all sorts of people. Even the ones you may not always like. Because it’s in these trenches and odd-ball experiences that you truly learn to empathize and connect with other human beings.

This is why I don’t outsource our customer service to some 3rd party company overseas or anywhere for that matter. As the copywriter and main sales guy on our team, I want to be buried in the emails to hear the praises, complaints, reasons for refunds, etc etc etc.

It seems like customer service would be the worst use of my time, but in actuality, I find it fascinating as it helps me to craft every single email, offer, or whatever communication method I’m using at the time.

At some point I know I’m going to have to let go of doing so much of the customer service but it’s been the #1 thing that has allowed me to connect and sell to a large group of people who think much differently than myself.

Thanks for always dishing out the goods man. My life would look drastically different if I hadn’t been so lucky to stumble across your work years ago. And I probably wouldn’t have had this piece of copy that has made me $4879 before noon today either. But I’m on Hawaiian time, so I still got a few hours left in the day to increase it.

Aloha

I believe it was Vic Schwab who suggested the title. As well as all the chapter titles. Thanks for the post.

Just ordered the 1937 edition from Amazon in collectable condition. You can get decent copies in the $20 + range. Read the adulterated version in my youth. Thanks for the great recommendation!

Yep, still got my old copy and read it several times. You’ve prompted me to read it again. Persuaded my 14 year old daughter to read it a few years ago by agreeing to read a Harry Potter book in return. I think she got the best of the deal.

Thanks for the kick up the butt, John. It’s a book I’ve been meaning to get for ages.
I found a copy – 1953, hardback in good condition – for a whole £3.27 (that’s about $4.50)!
Bargain.

Thanks for the tip John. I’m going to the used books stores to find this one.

Hi John…

thanks for writing the email and the blog. I love the way you write…

I’ve read the book but I’m going to re-read it after reading your email and blog post.

I just bought the book again (20 years later). And comparing it to the original text I find very interesting nuances. Dale’s heir shows lack of salesmanship when she moved the first section all the way to the end. Dale put it right up front for a very good reason

Awesome, I haven’t read this book yet but so many people have recommended it to me. Now, I think it’s time to take the next step and get a copy of my own. I’m a bit like yourself, I do like old copies of books also, so I’m going to check the local second hand book shops first 😃

I actually used the techniques in the book to let an employee go, BUT, he thought it was his idea, and in his best interest to leave. Brilliant!

I had a real inkling the firing would not go well, but by reversing the psychology , he left with a handshake and all is well.

Great book, got a pre-1981 copy , of all places it was sitting unread on my bookshelf lol

Thanks John!