Publisher's Weekly Review
The primary reason people don't succeed at work is fear, according to Horn, an executive consultant and coach in Toronto. This fear creates different personalities, including worriers, control freaks, fakes, attention-seekers, victims and prisoners. Using examples from his own practice, Horn explains how to diagnose these profiles. He asks people what they're thinking as they continue to exhibit certain behavior, even if the particular demeanor is hurting them professionally. Often, the individuals recall something from their childhood that explains why they act in a certain way. Once people are aware of the reasons for their behavior, they can slowly begin to change. The author addresses individuals wanting to modify their behavior as well as people who interact with "problem types." As Horn explains, "If someone does not readily admit to the negative effects of their behavior, and you need the behavior to change, then don't go to the topic of motive. Stay on the topic of behavior." Horn's style is friendly and clear, and the real-life anecdotes and dialogues ably support the author's thesis. However, some readers may find the book slows down when Horn discusses his "transcendence model" and how to understand the needs of the "self." As a result, the book will most benefit readers who are already comfortable with psychological approaches to work situations. (July) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Library Journal Review
Horn, an experienced executive coach, here advises those who are fearful in the workplace as well as their colleagues. He opens by listing six types of workplace personalities: the worrier, the controller, the fake, the attention-seeker, the victim, and the prisoner. He describes the traits of each, offering client case studies for clarification. At the end of each description is a section on how coworkers can cope with these personalities. Horn then describes "The Transcendence Model," which is aimed at helping people predict how they will respond in certain situations and how others will perceive them. He closes by addressing personal patterns of behavior, or "operating strategies," and ways that they can be changed. Horn's distinctive focus on the psychological reasons for certain workplace behaviors is especially useful. Recommended for all collections.-Stacey Marien, American Univ. Lib., Washington, DC (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
