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Making the Case: How to Negotiate Like a Prosecutor in Work and Life

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After an eleven-year-old Kimberly Guilfoyle lost her mother to leukemia, her dad wanted her to become as resilient and self-empowered as she could be. He wisely taught her to build a solid case for the things she wanted. Creating a strong logical argument was the best way to ensure she could always meet her needs. That childhood lesson led her to become the fearless advocate and quick-thinking spitfire she is today. In Making the Case, Guilfoyle interweaves stories and anecdotes from her life and career with practical advice that can help you win arguments, get what you want, help others along the way, and come out ahead in any situation.

Learning how to state your case effectively is not just important for lawyers--it's something every person should know how to do, no matter what stage of life they are in. From landing her dream job right out of school, switching careers seamlessly midstream, and managing personal finances for greater growth and stability to divorcing amicably and teaching her young child to advocate for himself, Guilfoyle has been there and done it. Now she shares those stories, showing you how to organize your thoughts and plans, have meaningful discussions with the people around you, and achieve your goals in all aspects of your life. You'll also learn the tips and strategies that make the best advocates so successful, some of which come directly from courtroom scenarios where the stakes are highest.

Told in her winning and humorous voice, Guilfoyle's experiences and the wisdom drawn from them are a ready guide to help you reach your potential and live a fulfilling and happy life at work and at home.

240 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 7, 2015

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About the author

Kimberly Guilfoyle

6 books23 followers

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5 stars
83 (27%)
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98 (32%)
3 stars
77 (25%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Lynne.
176 reviews25 followers
July 29, 2015
I like the quote she introduces with: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston S. Churchill
16 reviews84 followers
July 28, 2015
To be honest, I did not like it. I did not like the writing style.
26 reviews11 followers
August 29, 2015
I'd like to start by saying that KG is my total girl-crush. So while I hate to give this book two stars, I just didn't feel like it should be more than that. It wasn't that this book was bad, but I really expected more of a step-by-step type of book with bullet points for being your own best advocate. It read more like a mix of a memoir and a self-help, which just wasn't what I was expecting or looking for. I'd be quite interested in actually reading a memoir of hers, but it just seemed sort of out of place here.
Profile Image for Gabriella Hoffman.
110 reviews62 followers
June 27, 2015
Good read. Especially good for newly graduated high schoolers and college students.
Profile Image for Angela Pisaturo.
Author 21 books15 followers
June 28, 2018
I read the book. It seemed geared toward younger people. However, there is some nuggets of truth and wisdom for us older folks as well. Kimberly is a credit to conservative women, whether young or old.
Profile Image for Christopher Lawson.
Author 10 books130 followers
May 20, 2015
√ Choose the Right People to be Part of your Inner Circle

MAKING THE CASE is written as a guide to help young people find their place in the world. The author is encouraging: "I truly believe that anyone to learn to do what I do and apply it in all aspects of their life. Even you. Especially you." She clarifies what this means: "Making and winning the case is not just a matter of speaking loudly. It's a matter of saying what you've got to say clearly and convincingly--and with your actions as well as your words."

Kimberly points out how critical it is to be able to tell a story. The best advocates in the world "know how to tell a story that conveys all the pertinent details - a story that compels and holds another's attention." She then gives various suggestions for becoming adept at telling your own story and becoming your own advocate.

I found one of the most interesting sections to be the section entitled "Securing your first salaried position." Kimberly uses an approach called, "Make the Case Boot Camp." After you have some experience--even if its unpaid experience, you need to train to present your experience in the most positive light.

The best tip in the entire book is this: Develop a "One minute spoken memoir. This is this the story you'll share about yourself during your interview. It should sum up who you are and how you wish you would by your future employer and peers." In other words, you need to be prepared to succinctly explain to a prospective employer what you're trying to accomplish or whatever you're trying to get into.

The author also emphasizes the importance of associating with the right people: "Advocating for yourself in the context of friendship starts with choosing the right people be part of your inner circle."

√ All in all, MAKING THE CASE is an interesting read from a well-known, national figure--someone who has accomplished a great deal in her own field. Much of MAKING THE CASE is also biographical; I suspect some readers will not find some parts terribly interesting. I admit, some of these sections were not terribly captivating to me. Nevertheless, the author lives an interesting life and it was okay to read about some of her activities behind the scenes.

Advance copy courtesy of Edelweiss Distributors.

Profile Image for Elaine.
112 reviews
March 29, 2015
I am a huge fan of Kimberly Guilfoyle, and admire her strength, intelligence and fiery nature. When I saw her upcoming book was available for advanced review through Edelweiss, I immediately downloaded a copy, and I was not disappointed. I wish this book had been around when I was in high school and college, as the advice for advocating and making a case for yourself and others would have been helpful.
This is not just a book about being your own advocate, it is more like a guidebook for navigating life. From convincing a parent to allow you to go on a school trip, to taking steps to ensure your career path goes in the right direction, to employing effective communication skills, to dealing with an aging parent, she covers all the bases. I was amazed at how much excellent advice she packed into this book, and through reading it I learned so much about how to be the best, most authentic human being I can be.
The release date is May 2015, which is perfect timing to pick this book up for any graduates in your life. Not everyone has people in their life to guide them through it's many obstacles, and Kim's book provides real life direction for anyone willing to hear it.
Well done, KG...home run!
2 reviews
June 6, 2015
Hybrid Vigor

This is an in depth point by point self-help narrative offering insight in to the life of a very successful lawyer and now Fox News superstar. Too, there is enough pathos to keep her (overnight?) success real.

The reader's age and sex are probably significant to the understanding and use of the advice she gives. I suspect that an 18-30 year old female should read this book several times. For us folks who pay close attention to the Visiting Angels commercials, it is a retrospective on successes (perhaps enhanced) and failures (perhaps avoided) had her advice been known and heeded in past business dealings. Oh, it still has practical value at my age, especially in dealings with my Nurse Practitioner, but less so than if I were younger.

But my motivation in reading such was to understand who this Irish-Latina really was. And the next time she tears Juan Williams a new one, I will have a much better idea whence it came. It is equal parts nature/nurture. She is truly hybrid vigor.

Readers of any age will learn grand lessons. So, buy the book: 'tis a good investment in time and money.


Profile Image for Myndi Keyton.
174 reviews5 followers
June 28, 2015
Kimberly continues to pay it forward as an Author.

Great read cover to cover. Loved the real world life lessons she put forth. Great motivational read. I usually read mostly business related books lately but would definitely recommend this book to not only my staff but friends and family as well.
Profile Image for Ash.
151 reviews8 followers
November 25, 2017
Part One is for work. I really liked the work portion of the book because she discusses work ethic, how to advocate for raises, etc. Definitely good information to have in your back pocket. Because shes a former lawyer, i feel like she really teaches you how to defend yourself against employers.

Part two is for home. Not really for me because I was mostly reading this to help me with work but you still may like it. I do like the chapters about children and how to navigate divorce while having a child. I am a product of divorced parents so I definitely understand that side of things. I personally would've preferred the book to be solely based on work but you still have to work on home as well as work.

All in all, i do think this book is good for young professionals and people that may have just graduated college.
Profile Image for Jess Grayson (bookspastbedtime).
1,040 reviews617 followers
July 28, 2017
3.5/5

I've had this book forever, but I'm kind of glad I waited until now to read it. Kimberly is a very successful and intelligent woman and she shared a lot of useful wisdom in this book that I hope to apply in my own life. I enjoyed learning about her education and career pursuits, as her interests are similar to my own in that way.

The only drawbacks to this book were that it was mainly educational, so wasn't exactly an exciting read. And, some of the chapters about marriage and divorce and raising kids weren't exactly applicable. But, that said, the advise in them wasn't bad and I might revisit those chapters in the future.
Profile Image for Lynn Smith.
265 reviews6 followers
May 2, 2018
Kimberly Guilfoyle has been one of my favorite news personalities for several years. I've been wanting to read this book for some time and am glad I finally had the chance. This was a nice book which was both filled with useful advice and tips, as well as telling her life story. Kimberly mixes advice and tips with stories about her life. You get to learn a lot about her (including her modeling career). She's a very smart woman. There are all kinds of life tips, not just on negotiating for jobs, promotions and salaries but other things such as co-parenting and dealing with parents and end of life issues. The book is just a little over 200 pages.
Profile Image for Amber.
1,550 reviews4 followers
June 4, 2019
You might never hear of Kimberly Guilfoyle and the only reason that I know her is before my grandfather passed away he watch Fox New 24/7 and when I got home she would be on the Five.

If you over look her politic views and name dropping of Fox News members it's not that bad of book. Main point is you have to speak up for your self because no one is going to be a better advocate than you.

A few work related tips that I might use. It a book that you don't need to read the whole this you can just read the chapters that You need. Yes, I did read the whole thing.
Profile Image for Brittany Piper.
24 reviews
February 10, 2024
Definitely more entertaining than I expected. Still vapid, clueless, and irritating.

What strikes me is that she seems to have the makings of a Good Person™️ but chose the dark side along the way. The running theme was to advocate for yourself and others, which is diametrically opposed to the political party to which she currently belongs. I don’t think she has much self-awareness.
Profile Image for Julia Nixon.
126 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2018
Filled with very good advice for anyone,especially young people.
Profile Image for Angela Watts.
516 reviews3 followers
November 11, 2018
YOU HAVE to like THE FIVE AT FIVE WHICH NO LONGER COMES ON ON FOX! WAS ONE OF THE BEST SHOWS
Profile Image for Robert Orzechowski.
2 reviews
February 8, 2019
This is a brilliant portrayal of advocating for one’s self through stages in life. Required reading for all in achieving maximum advocacy at work and home. Overall, nice book.
Profile Image for Samantha Savage.
27 reviews2 followers
July 13, 2019
I'm not really one for self help books so this one took me a bit longer BUT i would definitely recommend it to anyone who needs a little help advocating for yourself and others. Great great read!!!
Profile Image for Jason Braatz.
Author 1 book61 followers
March 21, 2017
Well written

Well written eloquent book on Kimberly's life and how she used personal advocacy when it was required the most in her upbringing and career.
Profile Image for Leona.
310 reviews126 followers
July 31, 2015



Review of Making the Case by Kimberly Guilfoyle

From goodreads.com:
Making the Case: How to Negotiate Like a Prosecutor in Work and Life by Kimberly Guilfoyle

The co-host of Fox News’s popular opinion programs, The Five and Outnumbered, shares the skills she’s honed and the insights she’s garnered as a highly successful prosecutor and television personality to help readers learn how they too can “make the case” for themselves in all aspects of life

When Kimberly Guilfoyle was just ten years old she lost her mother to a battle with leukemia. Her father knew that he couldn't possibly anticipate all the needs of his children alone so he set out to teach Kimberly how to advocate for herself and for her younger brother. He instructed her on how to ask for what she needed and how to build a strong case to get it. Those valuable childhood lessons helped Kimberly become the quick-thinking spitfire she is today. In Making the Case she weaves stories and anecdotes from her life and career with specific strategies that can help anyone set clear goals, communicate more effectively, and come out on top in any situation.

Having been a prosecuting attorney, former First Lady of San Francisco and one of TV’s most sought-after legal analysts and opinion-shapers, Kimberly Guilfoyle is the quintessential expert at making the case. Now advocating for her readers, she shares tips on how to make the case for yourself in all realms of your life—personal and professional. Among the topics she advises on are:

• Getting hired
• Nailing a promotion
• Navigating a mid-life career change
• Managing personal finances
• Advocating for your health
• Minimizing family drama

Told in her appealing and persuasive voice, combining personal experience and time-tested counsel, Making the Case is an invaluable guide to helping you get the most from your life at home and at work.
Hardcover, 240 pages
Published April 7th 2015 by Harper
ISBN0062343971 (ISBN13: 9780062343970)

Leona's Review:
I checked out this book from my library because I watch Kimberly on FOX and she was talking about her new book.

This is a good book for young people and would be great for a discussion group in high school. Prepare the future young leaders of our country. No politics are involved.

There are many personal parts and it gets emotional at times. Kimberly talks about the death of her mother, how she helped raise her younger brother, their father and what he taught them, her in-laws and exes and especially of her young son, Ronan.

I love the story of Ronan, when he was 7 years old. He found a motor- cycle online he wanted to order and tried "making the case " of why he should have it. The motor- cycle was for the ages of 12 years and older so he did not get it but learned at a young age how to advocate for himself.

Making the Case is about Kimberly and how and why she has had so many responsible jobs such as working at the DA's office in San Francisco.
She became her own best advocate for what she wanted.

Do your research, make acquaintances with people, read, get involved, communicate, use a firm handshake, ask for that promotion and set goals are some suggestions she has in her book.

I am doing a different rating for Making the Case. I give it a 5 star for young people and a 4 star for my age, late 70s. Buy the book for a graduation, birthday or holiday gift for someone; it will be a useful tool in their lives.

Kimberly Guilfoyle lists many names of people she knows from work and other areas of her life. The Index is much appreciated.

Kimberly Guilfoyle mad be reached at :
www.kimberlyguilfoyle.com
https://twitter.com/kimguilfoyle
https://facebook.com/kimberlyguilfoyle


Contents:

Introduction

PART l: ADVOCATING AT WORK

Chapter 1 How to Land the Best Job in the World
Chapter 2 Dressing for the Part
Chapter 3 Asking for a Promotion
Chapter 4 Standing Up fro Your Ideas
Chapter 5 Working as a Team
Chapter 6 Changing Careers
Chapter 7 Playing by the Rules

PART ll: ADVOCATING AT HOME

Chapter 8 The Power of Friendships
Chapter 9 Dating and Marriage
Chapter 10 Money and Relationships
Chapter 11 Supporting Your Spouse
Chapter 12 Teaching Kids to Advocate fro Themselves
Chapter 13 Making Divorce Work for Everyone Involved
Chapter 14 Avoiding Family Drama
Chapter 15 Caring for Aging Parents
Chapter 16 Help! How to Ask for It, Receive It, and Give It

Acknowledgements
Index

Leona Olson
http://www.mnleona.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Warren.
28 reviews
August 9, 2015
Great book for younger people to hear sound advice from a professional "networker" and career working woman. My interest, as a retired person, was mostly to read inside stuff about FOX News and Ms Guilfoyle provides plenty. But if you're looking for negativity or trashy gossip regarding FOX News, you won't find it here.
Kimberly Huilfoyle comes off as extremely confidant, but not arrogant or egotisical, although I think that anyone in her position must harbor some ego even if it is small. Ego and television seem to go hand in hand.
I'd advise any career-minded person under 45 to read this book.
Profile Image for Sharon Chance.
Author 5 books42 followers
July 25, 2015
I've always thought of Kimberly Guilfoyle as the "tough gal" of the Fox News ladies - she is plain-spoken and stands up for what she believes in. As an attorney, she breaks down the most complicated cases in layman's terms that everyone can understand. Plus she keeps Greg Gutfield under control on "The Five!" With her new book, "Making The Case," I enjoyed reading about her background and appreciated the advice she shares with how to be as successful as you want to be. She has achieved great success in her life, and it's an amazing journey to read about.
Profile Image for Kristin.
169 reviews
November 16, 2016
Superb book, written by a very impressive and determined woman. I had no idea how she got to where she is and I'm incredibly inspired, far more educated, and personally motivated in many different directions after reading her book. Great read! Very impressive first hand accounts of what a prepared and determined woman can accomplish and also some amazing tools to equip anyone to better advocate for themselves and others.
Profile Image for Dave Hoff.
712 reviews24 followers
June 1, 2015
Author, former Assistant San Fransisco DA & Deputy DA of Los Angeles gives advice on how to live, how to get a job and how to get along with people. Having been retired 25 years, a lot too late for me. But how to conduct oneself is relevant at any age. Gives a good rundown on all the other former prosecutors working at Fox News. You have to love 'em.
Profile Image for Piepie | The Napping Bibliophile.
2,162 reviews133 followers
January 7, 2016
I've seen Kimberly Guilfoyle on Fox News shows, like The Five, but I knew very little about her. Now, upon completing this book, I can just say one thing... She is smart. She is bright and intelligent. The pages of this book shine with advice and wisdom gleaned from her past experiences, her mentors, and her parents, especially her father. Every businesswoman - every woman - needs to read this.
Profile Image for Michael Shulman.
27 reviews81 followers
July 11, 2015
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Kimberly Guilfoyle is a prosecutor and host of various Fox News show. In her book, she uses her negotiation skills honed as a prosecutor to describe how to make a case and ultimately maximize the benefits out of life. Her book is an invaluable resource to anybody who wants to live life to the fullest.
Profile Image for Timothy.
540 reviews6 followers
July 21, 2015
Let me preface this by saying I'm a fan of Kimberly Guilfoyle on FOX News. And, I can't say that I read the last 50 pages with much enthusiasm. Because, the first 150 pages of Kimberley telling me how great she is was more than enough for me. If you enjoy someone bragging about themselves, their ex-husbands, their kid, their dad, etc etc , this is a good book for you. Enjoy
1,417 reviews3 followers
December 10, 2015
Wish I had read this book when I was a teenager. Very good advice which gives a person permission to do his/her best, not be afraid to ask for info or help, and to be completely prepared for whatever it is a person wants to do. I was only going to skim the book but ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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