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The Go-Giver Influencer: A Little Story About a Most Persuasive Idea

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From the bestselling authors of The Go-Giver, Go-Givers Sell More, and The Go-Giver Leader comes another compelling parable about the paradox of getting ahead by placing other people's interests first.

The Go-Giver Influencer is a story about two young, ambitious businesspeople: Gillian Waters, the chief buyer for Smith & Banks, a midsized company that operates a national chain of pet accessory stores; and Jackson Hill, the founder of Angels Clothed in Fur, a small but growing manufacturer of all-natural pet foods.

Each has something the other wants. To Jackson, Smith & Banks represents the possibility of reaching more animals with his products--if he can negotiate terms and conditions that will protect his company's integrity. To Gillian, Angels Clothed in Fur could give her company a distinctive, uniquely high-quality line that will help them stand out from their competitors--if Angels Clothed in Fur can be
persuaded to give them an exclusive.

At first, the negotiations are adversarial and frustrating. Then, coincidentally, Gillian and Jackson each encounter a mysterious yet kindly mentor. Over the next week, while neither one realizes the other is doing the same, both Gillian and Jackson learn the heart of both mentors' philosophies: The Five Secrets of Genuine Influence.

The story ends in a way that surprises everyone--and with lessons we can all apply in our efforts to resolve conflicts and influence others.

192 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2018

136 people are currently reading
1437 people want to read

About the author

Bob Burg

79 books338 followers
Bob Burg shares information on topics vital to the success of today’s businessperson. He speaks for corporations and associations internationally, including fortune 500 companies, franchises, and numerous direct sales organizations.

Bob is an advocate, supporter and defender of the Free Enterprise system, believing that the amount of money one makes is directly proportional to how many people they serve.

He is a founding board member of Club 100, a charitable organization focused on helping underprivileged local area youths. A lover of animals, he is a past member of the Board of Directors of Safe Harbor, which is the Humane Society of Jupiter, Florida.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
676 reviews8 followers
February 12, 2019
First, I love the Go-Giver series. They teach how to do business in a way that improves the world we live around us. Excellent life lessons learned.

However, I think Burg and Mann failed in the story telling aspects of this story. Gillian and Jackson succeeded without having any kind of explicit real conversation in depth that modeled the behaviors that both coaches were teaching them. Their final negotiation on Friday seemed like it was over in about 15 minutes? I view the fact that this dialog wasn’t in the book as a major shortfall. Without this conversation, I don’t think the lessons taught were lessons learned. I wanted to Jackson to Gillian to ask question about each other to help me when I want to apply these lessons in my dealings. I feel cheated.

The deus ex machina ending of the story seemed unrealistic – even in the story. Gillian having met a philanthropist only once, gets her to sign in a few hours? It’s also almost exactly the same ending as the Go-Giver. Do the authors think big companies are so inherently evil that the only way to succeed and remain moral is to quit? Do the authors think that a compromise between the big and small companies that is win-win is impossible? It seems like the hard work required to save Jackson's company is papered over by this solution. There is nothing to make me believe that Gillian has the skills/experience needed to turn this around.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Elias Thomase.
56 reviews4 followers
September 15, 2019
The book was really good just like the other Go-Giver, the big take away from this book is the 5 secrets of genuine influence
Profile Image for Tammy Tosti.
304 reviews2 followers
April 15, 2025
A quick read with a sweet story and a powerful message about persuasion. I liked “The Go-Giver Leader” better but this is a good read that is appropriate regardless of whether you are in business or into self-help.
Profile Image for Denise KH.
238 reviews5 followers
August 9, 2024
This is an OK book that was recommended to me. I got some good takes from it, but overall OK. I might check out other books in this series.
Profile Image for Richard Tubb.
Author 5 books30 followers
November 10, 2018
As a huge fan of the original Go-Giver book (I'd go as far as to say it was life changing for me), I was excited to read Bob Burg and John David-Mann's latest business parable -- and I wasn't dissapointed!

Set in the same fictional location as the original Go-Giver, the story follows the owner of a fledgeling fresh pet food company who wants (and needs, financially) to get his highly-praised product into a bigger market. Wanting the same thing, but for entirely different reasons, is the buyer of a large pet food distributor. Despite wanting similar results, the story shows how people can be worlds apart in their communication -- based on their lack of awareness of other people's perspectives.

This is a short-read -- it took me less than 90-mins -- but a powerful story of the difference between influence and manipulation, and how we can all benefit from thinking about how our actions and words can affect other people.

As with their earlier books, the authors build some strong characters who you empathise with, and you're taken on a journey of discovery as the characters meet coaches who help open their minds to new lessons.

A heart-warming and uplifting book, I'd recommend this to anyone in business as a set of lessons that can be applied to every interaction you have -- with clients, with prospects, with suppliers, and the wider world.
Profile Image for Spellbind Consensus.
350 reviews
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May 26, 2025
**The Go-Giver Influencer: A Little Story About a Most Persuasive Idea** by Bob Burg and John David Mann is a business parable that explores how genuine influence stems from collaboration, empathy, and authenticity—not pressure or manipulation. Through a fictional story, it offers a framework for becoming more persuasive by focusing on others, building trust, and creating win-win outcomes.

Key ideas and actionable strategies:

* **Influence Begins with Listening**

* Deep, active listening helps understand the other person’s needs, fears, and motivations.
* Suspend the urge to respond or argue—seek first to truly understand.
* Ask clarifying questions and reflect back what you hear to show respect and build rapport.

* **Give Before You Ask**

* Offer value freely—support, insight, time—without demanding anything in return.
* When people feel genuinely helped, they are more open to reciprocation and cooperation.
* Generosity earns trust and opens the door to influence.

* **Make Your Goal Harmony, Not Victory**

* Focus on mutual benefit rather than trying to “win” an argument or negotiation.
* Create alignment instead of opposition; reframe discussions to emphasize shared goals.
* Influence grows from connection, not conquest.

* **Lead with Empathy and Respect**

* Acknowledge the other person’s perspective without judgment.
* Maintain emotional composure—respond calmly, even when others are aggressive or reactive.
* Show that you value people regardless of whether they agree with you.

* **Master the Five Keys to Genuine Influence**

* *Compromise Less, Cooperate More:* Instead of giving up something, find solutions that meet both parties’ core needs.
* *Listen First:* Make the other person feel heard before you speak your mind.
* *Speak with Kindness:* Choose words and tone that build bridges, not walls.
* *Stay Centered:* Maintain your inner peace even when conversations get tense.
* *Be Open:* Share your thoughts authentically and invite others to do the same.

* **Influence Is About Who You Are, Not Just What You Say**

* Your character—humility, integrity, generosity—is more persuasive than clever arguments.
* When you embody your values consistently, others naturally respect and trust your voice.

* **Create a Collaborative Culture**

* In leadership or business, model the behavior you want to see.
* Build relationships where mutual support and open communication are the norm.
* Encourage others to influence by example, not coercion.

The book reinforces that real influence is not about dominance or persuasion tactics—it’s about being the kind of person others want to follow, collaborate with, and support. It’s a shift from control to contribution, from manipulation to meaningful connection.
Profile Image for Leslie Yong.
361 reviews40 followers
October 1, 2025
"Go-Giver Influencer" by Bob Burg and John David Mann is a book that builds upon the principles outlined in the first book, focusing on effective influence through genuine relationships and value-driven interactions. Here's a summary:

*Key Concepts:*

- *Influence through Value*: The book emphasizes providing value to others as a means to build influence, rather than relying on manipulation or coercion.
- *Empathy and Understanding*: Understanding the other person's perspective and emotions is crucial for effective influence.
- *Authentic Communication*: Tact and sincerity are essential for articulating messages that resonate with others.
- *Emotional Control*: Managing one's emotions is vital for effective influence, allowing for calm and thoughtful decision-making.

*Principles for Effective Influence:*

- *Understand Others' Needs*: Truly comprehend the needs, motivations, and potential consequences faced by others.
- *Clear Obstacles*: Enable individuals to pursue their objectives effectively by removing obstacles.
- *Foster Trust*: Cultivate trust through genuine relationships and value-driven interactions.

*Differentiating Manipulation and Persuasion:*

- *Manipulation*: Exploits adverse feelings, leading to short-term gains but ultimately damaging trust and relationships.
- *Persuasion*: Focuses on genuine understanding, empathy, and value provision, leading to sustainable and mutually beneficial outcomes.

Based on the book, the 5 secrets of genuine influence are:

1. *You Have to Care*: Genuinely care about others, their needs, and their well-being.
2. *They Have to Know You Care*: Effectively communicate your care and concern for others.
3. *They Have to Know You Believe in Them*: Show confidence in others' abilities and potential.
4. *Give Them the Information They Need*: Provide valuable insights, knowledge, or resources to help others make informed decisions.
5. *Give Them the Freedom to Make Their Own Decisions*: Respect others' autonomy and allow them to make their own choices.

These secrets focus on building trust, rapport, and mutual respect, enabling genuine influence that benefits both parties.

Profile Image for Stan Stinson.
63 reviews10 followers
April 19, 2018
A little story with big ideas inside

Angels Clothed in Fur is at the center of this latest parable in the Go-Giver series by Bob Burg and John David Mann. As you travel along with Jackson Hill and Gillian Waters you will learn that influence is much more than what you might, before reading this book, understand to be simply a business negotiation. Once you learn this principle you will understand the Go-Giver Influencer principles and are likely to remember them because you will remember the story.

In case this is your first exposure to The Go-Giver the story or parable will keep you turning the pages and when you are done you will have learned some principles along the way you can apply in whatever your vocation happens to be.

If you are already a Go-Giver you will see some familiar characters in this latest installment in this series, be reminded of principles you have already learned, and add a few more to your knowledge base.

The principles you will learn inside this book are needed in today's divisive world more than ever. I encourage everyone to get your copy today.
Profile Image for Hoàng.
20 reviews4 followers
July 4, 2021
1- THỞ. Làm chủ cảm xúc bản thân.
.
2- LẮNG NGHE. Xỏ chân vào giày người khác.

“Bạn.. CỘNG HƯỞNG với mọi người, dù cho họ có vẻ khác bạn đến thế nào chăng nữa.”

“Lắng nghe bằng gáy” - Không chỉ lắng nghe những gì người kia nói mà còn lắng nghe điều người ấy.. không nói. Lắng nghe điều họ.. muốn nói. Lắng nghe cảm giác của họ, bằng TRỰC GIÁC, phía sau từ ngữ và vẻ mặt.

Thực chất đó là THẤU CẢM - là SỰ CỘNG HƯỞNG.
.
3- MỈM CƯỜI. Thiết lập trạng thái.

Tuỳ vào trạng thái tinh thần và đặc biệt vào SỰ CHÂN THÀNH cũng như động cơ của người thiết lập.
.
4- HOÀ NHÃ. Truyền đạt bằng sự khéo léo và thấu cảm.
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5- TIN CẬY. Buông bỏ việc “phải đúng”.

Quá tập trung vào việc đúng đắn của bản thân sẽ ngăn bạn học hỏi và trưởng thành. Và gần như chắc chắn sẽ ngăn bạn đạt được sự ăn ý hài hoà, là thứ làm nên những mối quan hệ cộng sự, những cuộc hợp tác, và những thoả thuận có sức mạnh nhất.
•••••
Càng cho đi nhiều, càng có nhiều.
1,403 reviews
July 2, 2018
This is the newest in a series of “Go-Giver Influence” books. Author Bob Burg creates two characters — one trying to make a sale and another trying to find a product that aligns with the goals of her company. Each character learns to follow the “Go-Giver Way” in negotiations: Master your emotions, step into the other person’s shoes, set the frame of the negotiation and communicate with tact and empathy.

All good advice to create the context in which all parties get a win. But I wonder what happens when someone tries to negotiate using the Go-Giver model with a bully who has no sense of the needs of the other person and doesn’t want to think about the other person at all.



23 reviews
April 19, 2018
I’ve been influenced by the Influencer

This latest book by Bob Burg and John David Mann is awesome! I love how they intertwine the principles they want to share into story form giving you examples of those principles in action without any fluff or unnecessary words.

I’m not going to disclose the 5 secrets here. If you want to “hear” them, you’ll need to meet Gillian and Jackson. I will tell you that it’s a book well worth your time.

As for me, I’ve used some of the secrets without realizing it and now because of this book, I plan on being more intentional so that I can do my part to making the world a better place for others.
Profile Image for Bob Wallner.
406 reviews41 followers
May 12, 2018
By all measures this was a good book, a very good book; however when I compare it to the original Go-Giver and the Go-Giver Leader, I feel it fell flat.

For me the take aways from the "Influencer" weren't as solid as past Go-Giver books I loved so much.

Perhaps it's because the authors focused too much on the story and too little on the concepts. Or maybe I'm just tired of books that wrap things up in "nice little packages". I don't know but whatever the reason I didn't get much out of the "Influencer".
4 reviews
September 26, 2018
Awesome series - The Go-Giver

I am totally in love with The Go-Giver series and I too actually place a lot of importance on thrle mentorship one receives. I am thankful to my mentor for inspiring me to read books in first place and the over the period suggesting me to go thriugh The Go-Giver series.

I would definitely recommend everyone, irrespective of the fact where they come from, to grab this book and taste the success by implementing it's teachings.

Thanks to the authors of this amazing book for bringing it to the world.
Profile Image for Andrew Parker.
25 reviews5 followers
April 27, 2019
Bob Burg and John David Mann knock it out of the park again with this book. These authors have pioneered the practice of providing principle-based instruction in a story format. The character development is excellent, pacing and clarity are good, and the story has enough tension to keep the reader engaged, without creating a sense of unneeded urgency. The story wraps up with a lovely twist and most importantly, teaches solid, effective principles business and living. It is a pleasurable read.
1 review
May 4, 2018
Time to go read it..or listen on Audible...Again

If the only lesson I learned from reading this book was not to let my emotions drive my behavior, it would have been worth the price of the hardcover, the Kindle and the Audible versions. But, fortunately, there are so many quotes “If you let your emotions drive your car, you are at the mercy of a drunk driver”, stories and lessons that are memorable and can be applied immediately. Time to read...or listen...again!!
564 reviews5 followers
April 13, 2018
Influence is an unseen flow of power. To be a Go-Giver Influencer is to give first and in abundance without expectation of return. That is the ultimate influence, as by the law of attraction and abundance, what one gives, one receives. This book is sure to be a classic! Karen Briscoe, author "5 Minute Success"
Profile Image for Sagar  Ganga.
16 reviews
September 25, 2018
Nice little book with an entertaining story that kept me hooked. The steps to success portrayed by not one but two protagonists and their respective mentors. The steps seemingly different but which are actually complementary and leading to the same results. It also subtly shows how two people who are completely different can make a great pair.
8 reviews
November 5, 2019
Influence is Pull

This is a great book to truly understand the power of influence to be something that comes naturally stepping into someone else's shoes. I enjoy the go-giver book series for the engaging and relatable storytelling. I now recognize when I was trying to push for influence and why it didn't work.
Profile Image for Alistair.
100 reviews
December 14, 2022
As a massive fan of the Go-Giver series, this book just fell short in creating real influence.
The point of negotiation seemed to end rather abruptly and you’re left thinking:

“Is that it?”

The organic elements that connected the first 2 books together - i.e. characters and location; seemed forced in this book just to build a connection that could’ve been interpreted otherwise.

Profile Image for Chuck Cova.
252 reviews5 followers
June 24, 2018
I absolutely love the Go Giver series of books. Simple little stories with endearing characters and wonderful life lessons. When I bought this I ordered three as I knew without even reading it that I'd want to share it - and I wasn't wrong.
Profile Image for Sara.
232 reviews9 followers
March 16, 2019
I enjoyed but, having read other similar books by other authors (such as Jon Gordon) I wasn't really taken by it. It certainly offers good tips on how to conduct a healthy negotiation but in my opinion Gordon's books are more powerful and heartfelt.
Profile Image for Jens.
495 reviews7 followers
October 29, 2019
I like how the book transmits the lessons, I like how the book is a short read and I like the content that is pretty similar to 'how to win friends and influence people', but better structured. I really like the book.
Profile Image for Subhajit Shome.
94 reviews10 followers
November 6, 2023
Another beautiful book in the Go Giver Series

All books in the Go-Giver parable series are inspiring and this one also did not disappoint. Negotiation is best done in the spirit of win-win and this book shows us that 2 parties can reach that point, no matter what the odds!
Profile Image for Alexandru.
17 reviews
April 29, 2018
Amazing short story that reminds us that we are human after all, and with some very basic principles we can easily generate congruent partnerships.
2 reviews
July 11, 2018
One of the best business book series I've ever read. I recommend reading in order, especially start with The Go Giver.
147 reviews
October 3, 2018
Great book and great message. I will read it several more times to implement what it is saying.
Profile Image for Jimmy Rex.
81 reviews27 followers
January 2, 2019
Good book, not as good as the original Go Giver but still a great read and well worth spending the time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews

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