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The Emigrant Edge: How to Make It Big in America

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Brian Buffini, an Irish immigrant who went from rags to riches, shares his strategies for anyone who wants to achieve the American dream in this New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller.

Brian Buffini embodies the classic rags to riches born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, he arrived in San Diego, California at nineteen years old with just ninety-two dollars in his pocket. Since then he has become one of his new nation’s top real estate moguls and a founder of the largest business training company, Buffini & Co., in North America. And Brian isn’t alone in his circle of while immigrants compose thirteen percent of the American population, they are responsible for creating a quarter of all new businesses.

So, what’s their secret? In The Emigrant Edge , Brian shares seven key characteristics that he and other successful immigrants have in common that can help produce a high level of achievement for anyone—no matter their vocation. He then challenges us to leave the comfort of our current work conditions to apply these secrets and achieve the success of our dreams.

With a timely message sure to resonate with anyone who wants to prosper in the business world, The Emigrant Edge is a passionate, deeply personal story bound to inspire.

So what are the secrets? In The Emigrant Edge , Brian shares seven characteristics that he and other successful immigrants have in common that can help anyone reach a higher level of achievement, no matter their vocation. He then challenges readers to leave the comfort of their current work conditions to apply these secrets and achieve the success of their dreams.

320 pages, Hardcover

Published August 1, 2017

59 people are currently reading
369 people want to read

About the author

Brian Buffini

16 books12 followers

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5 stars
138 (47%)
4 stars
84 (28%)
3 stars
59 (20%)
2 stars
6 (2%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Teronie.
125 reviews
October 18, 2023
This book explores the traits and values of emigrants, people who leave their home countries for a better life, and how these qualities can lead to success in various aspects of life.

Buffini draws on his experiences as an Irish immigrant to the United States and combines them with stories of other successful emigrants.

The book outlines principles such as a strong work ethic, a willingness to take risks, and maintaining a positive outlook. It's a motivational and self-help book that aims to inspire readers to apply these principles to their lives for success and fulfillment.

My takeaways
* The mindset of Gratitude: Emigrants often possess a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities they've found in their new homes. The book encourages readers to cultivate a mindset of appreciation for the available resources and options, which are always available if you are resourceful enough.
* Purposeful Planning: Buffini emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and creating a plan to achieve them. Emigrants often have a strong sense of purpose in pursuing a better life, and readers are encouraged to do the same in their personal and professional endeavors.

* Networking and Relationships: Building and maintaining solid relationships with others is a common trait among emigrants. The book stresses the value of networking and connecting with people who can support your goals and dreams.
Connections are everything, especially when you leave all you know searching for opportunity.

* Financial Discipline: Many emigrants are known for their financial discipline and frugality. The book highlights the significance of managing money wisely, saving, and investing for the future.

* Adaptability and Resilience: Emigrants often face significant challenges and setbacks, requiring them to be adaptable and resilient. The book encourages readers to embrace change and face adversity with determination.

These takeaways provide practical advice and insights on applying the emigrant mindset to various aspects of life, from personal development to financial success.
Profile Image for Darren.
1,193 reviews65 followers
October 5, 2017
Learn seven key business traits of successful immigrants from an Irishman who travelled to the United States as a 19-year-old with less than a hundred dollars in his pocket. This is the goal of this book.

The author believes that there are seven key elements that successful immigrants have in common that can, of course, be applied by anybody to their business. However, he claims, you need to leave your comfort zone to apply them and it is exactly these that helped him become quite rich and successful in the process.

Will it work for you? Who knows… nothing can ever be guaranteed but will this book be necessarily the spark that lights your ‘blue touch paper’ and propel you onwards and upwards? It is a difficult call, as whilst the book gave some interesting opinions, it just did not feel to be as incendiary as it claimed. Fortunately, it is not expensive, so even if it is evolutionary rather than revolutionary maybe you have not lost out and benefitted from something in any case.

The chapters are short you can pick it up and put it down at will. It is written in a clear, easy-to-follow manner and is reasonably free of hyperbole which is appreciated. It is far from being a ‘handbook to success’ and you need to read it sequentially and pull out what you need from a mix of the author’s stories, views and links.

It has the potential to be a useful book, although it might be a case of look before you buy to see if you can get on with the style and if you have a real need for its intelligence.
Profile Image for Juan.
18 reviews
September 19, 2024
"The Emigrant Edge" by Brian Buffini explores the unique mindset and traits of successful immigrants. Buffini draws on his own experiences as an immigrant from Ireland to the United States, highlighting the resilience, work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit that many immigrants bring to their new homes.

**Key Themes:**

1. **Mindset of Immigrants**: Buffini emphasizes that immigrants often possess a strong drive to succeed, fueled by the desire for a better life. This mindset can lead to remarkable achievements and contributions to society.

2. **Courage and Sacrifice**: The book discusses the courage it takes to leave one's homeland and the sacrifices made in pursuit of dreams. Buffini shares inspiring stories of individuals who overcame obstacles to find success.

3. **Practical Advice**: Alongside inspirational anecdotes, Buffini offers practical advice for readers, encouraging them to adopt the principles of hard work, perseverance, and a positive attitude.

4. **Cultural Insights**: The author delves into the cultural aspects of immigrant life, pointing out how diverse backgrounds can enrich communities and foster innovation.

**Overall Impression**: "The Emigrant Edge" is both motivational and informative, appealing to anyone interested in the immigrant experience or looking for inspiration to pursue their own goals. Buffini's engaging writing style and relatable stories make it a compelling read for a wide audience.
Profile Image for Tram-Anh Huynh.
134 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2018
I don't completely agree with delayed gratification since I prefer to enjoy some things (ie spend time/money "wrecklessly") now, seeing as tomorrow isn't a guarantee. On a similar note, I pretty much refuse to follow the author in sacrificing so much time with his growing family and loved ones. I suppose I prioritize people in my life higher than I do societal "significance"/legacy.

There's nothing new here, maybe because I was raised by refugee parents. Hustle, keep learning, budget well, be grateful, remember where you came from. Perhaps it's the last part - consistent consideration of your ancestors whose sacrifices granted you your freedoms today - that most people forget and can benefit from. I won't be referencing this book in the future, but at least the 5th grade writing made it a breeze to read. (He does sounds like a fun, inspiring person to meet!) Honestly I most enjoyed the borrowed quotes inserted throughout the pages. For example, "Adversity introduces a man to himself." - Einstein

My personal takeaway from this book is to "catch people doing something right". As in, really connecting with a person that you're thanking. I'm also inspired to begin writing thank you notes again.
Profile Image for Alex McPhee.
98 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2023
Truly loved this book- very inspirational

“However, what I’ve discovered is that it’s more important to be respected first and liked second.

When it comes to delayed gratification, the first person you need to respect is you. The definition of self-control is the ability to control your emotions in the face of temptations and impulses. If you want to unleash the power of delayed gratification and make it work for you, you can’t be a people-pleaser and you can’t forever give in to pleasing yourself. It’s not respectful of yourself to give in to the east option when you know it’s not a wise choice. That sends a subliminal message to your subconscious that you’re not worth the effort and willpower.”
Profile Image for Zackr.
32 reviews
September 27, 2017
This is the best book that I've ever read. I dream of becoming an American one day and hence, read this book. However, it isn't just for new immigrants or people planning to immigrate to America, it is also for people who already are in America. In fact, I often feel bad when I see Americans taking their nationality for granted and whenever I do, I try to make them realise what opportunity lies in front of them and now, I have a book to recommend to them. This is just amazingly an awesome art of work! A must, must, must read for anyone.
Profile Image for Trish.
89 reviews18 followers
January 24, 2018
Buffini has a gift for storytelling and truly understands how to succeed in business. For those in real estate, I highly suggest his courses and training. However, if you have taken any of Buffini's classes or heard him speak, this book may feel really repetitive. However, this book would be a great way to share Buffini principles with someone who is not in real estate as the book really is applicable for anyone not just REALTORS.
Profile Image for Sabeeha Rehman.
Author 4 books76 followers
May 16, 2020
Whereas the primary audience of the book is immigrants, it has appeal for all audiences. The author highlights the edge that immigrants have, compelling the non-immigrants to appreciate the value immigrants bring; but it is the later part of the book that all readers can draw strength from, which is: how to succeed. I couldn't agree more with his strategy, pointers, and tips. Easy read, cleverly formatted to limit verbiage and draw attention to the point.
Profile Image for David.
1 review1 follower
July 14, 2017
An inspiring book about why so many emigrants to America become very successful and how anyone can do it. Buffini makes a compelling argument that we already possess the tools and skills needed to define success for ourself and then take action to make it happen.

An entertaining read with lots of great stories and tips to do the things necessary to have a good life!
Profile Image for David Hewitt.
14 reviews
October 21, 2017
Great!

I listen to Brian Buffini’s podcast often. In fact, I’ve listened to it more than any other. His book was just as good. He communicates with a great spirit and great attitude. Give great hope.
318 reviews6 followers
April 17, 2018
This book had a different perspective to many familiar sales and success strategies. It’s definitely worth a read to see how an immigrant/emigrant looks at opportunity. But it was a little repetitive, unorganized and slightly unoriginal. But other than that it was good.
Profile Image for Adrian Rivera.
7 reviews
December 5, 2019
The mindset of an Emigrant and the way to apply that mindset to a business is amazing! This book explains how even as a natural citizen, how you can apply the Emigrant mindset to propel your business.
2 reviews
January 11, 2024
This book is written to live a more fulfilling, successful and productive life. Brian Buffini has pure nuggets of golden advice all through this book waiting for us to pick up and adopt as our own habits. Written by a man that has been there and done that.
Profile Image for Maureen Murray.
76 reviews4 followers
January 22, 2018
Good read!

Lots of great insight, personal experience and advice, advice , advice...it all makes sense and if Brian Buffini could do it with 92.00 to start with....why not you !
266 reviews1 follower
March 22, 2018
There were some nuggets that I picked up from this. Love his attitude
Profile Image for John Jennings.
201 reviews5 followers
April 17, 2018
It was ok. There were parts of the book that were very insightful. My favorite aspect of the book was how pro-American Brian is.
Profile Image for Jimmy Rex.
81 reviews27 followers
January 2, 2019
Being a fellow real estate coach I got to say that Buffini is a legend and such a treat to listen to. His podcast is also excellent, one of the best there is.
462 reviews3 followers
April 5, 2019
Love this guy. I listen to his podcast "The Brian Buffini Show".
86 reviews2 followers
May 5, 2019
Love just about everything this man has produced.
Profile Image for Gary.
958 reviews26 followers
November 25, 2019
Some good tips. Maybe I would have enjoyed more had I read it when I first arrived here.

Liked it okay.
Profile Image for DeShaun Sellers.
13 reviews1 follower
March 10, 2020
Very inspirational and informative. I will be using some of the tips he has provided.
Profile Image for Holly.
1,630 reviews7 followers
April 14, 2021
5 stars. I have had a lot of love and respect for Brian Buffini for decades.
Profile Image for Charlene.
15 reviews
February 6, 2023
Interesting but kind of basic. Didn't learn new info from it. I read real estate books on the regular.
Profile Image for Ivan Ramos.
75 reviews
September 5, 2024
The theme of this book is very true and needs to be shared today more than ever.
Profile Image for Fozan Rizvi.
8 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2019
It' a wonderful book packed with success advices and how you can dream and achieve big as a immigrant in US. How to make the most of this soil and turn yourself into a success machine.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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