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The Good Professional: How to Take Control of Your Work Life, Get More Done, and Be Happier
When Friday afternoon comes, you're flying high, but reality sets in while you're watching television Sunday evening. Monday morning is coming, and you can't stop it.
When work is constantly buzzing in the back of your head, you know things are bad. You also know that you are not fully engaged in all the other aspects of your life. This is exactly what happens to millions of people every day. The good news is that you can fix this problem.
The Good Professional provides tools and techniques to take control of your work life, get more done, and be happier.
Learn how to:
- fill gaps in your knowledge for getting things done
- get out of your own way mentally
- initiate the right conversations with the right people
- operate at a higher level individually and as an organization
Written by a seasoned multi-disciplined professional, this guide to business and career success does not include theory, academic models, research studies, and jargon, but it is filled with useful practical information that you can use to succeed no matter where you are in your career.
When work is constantly buzzing in the back of your head, you know things are bad. You also know that you are not fully engaged in all the other aspects of your life. This is exactly what happens to millions of people every day. The good news is that you can fix this problem.
The Good Professional provides tools and techniques to take control of your work life, get more done, and be happier.
Learn how to:
- fill gaps in your knowledge for getting things done
- get out of your own way mentally
- initiate the right conversations with the right people
- operate at a higher level individually and as an organization
Written by a seasoned multi-disciplined professional, this guide to business and career success does not include theory, academic models, research studies, and jargon, but it is filled with useful practical information that you can use to succeed no matter where you are in your career.
220 pages, Paperback
Published October 25, 2018
4 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
Don Turner
1 book3 followersDon Turner is a seasoned business leader, operations professional and author. He has built, sold and shut down companies as a founder. He has also worked for and helped build several other companies. Some were great, and some were not. He has learned a great deal at all of them. Don loves to enable the success of others. He lives with his wife and adult children in Canton, Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 19, 2020
For any good professional i think this book should be a manual. Very simple language and no jargon to explain how a good professional should be making and shaping his career. Career is the longest thing in our lives and should be built with extreme care. Its never too late to start and a good professional knows this. He's constantly learning and evolving. Really I would like to re-read the whole book to keep the lessons with me. Strongly recommended for all working professionals.
January 31, 2021
Self-help books are everywhere offering handy solutions to someone's personal or professional struggles--to somehow influence one to act and go to the bottom of their things right away. Quoting this book, “When you’re being your genuine self, it shows. This is your best approach.” How could anyone be their authentic self while being professional?
The Good Professional has elements of just what I’m looking for self-help guide. Only with No embellished words. Just straight facts. Real situations. No nonsense dramatics. Just pure human emotion. That's why I was not lost to the core of the matter because of constant reminder leaping from the end of each chapter, clearing the path toward my professional development. The book discusses the road would not be an easy feat. None of us get through a career without mistakes and failures. We need to understand this fact if we are to grow.
A professional is not the same as a good professional. It’s the difference in the level of discipline and control they each have that makes the difference. Reading "The Good Professional" motivated me to appreciate each concern and issue as if it was designed and crafted for me alone. The author said that he wanted to write this book in a conversational manner. The simple language that the author used surrounding timeless topics with relevant messages might be contradictory given how professionals take their professions seriously. We expect a plethora of theories and researches and case studies of employee engagement, motivation, commitment, leadership style and management from business self-help books. We do need that, of course.But Don Turner begs to differ. I love how the book's simplicity bear its own significant weight and made it so much more. This is how the best things come in small packages.
To get people to care about what they’re doing, they need to feel they have ownership and control. So, the way this book was written gives power to the readers to approach it the way they want to. You may read it chronologically or jump from one topic to another. It sounds personal and impactful, to me, guarding my own reactions and assessing my strong emotional responses.
It’s actually your job as a good professional to understand your knowledge gaps and to create a plan for filling them. This book inspires me to do just that. I will always consult this book whenever my mental alarm clock raised doubts or negative vibes. It’s a handy tool for someone hoping to become a good professional.
The Good Professional has elements of just what I’m looking for self-help guide. Only with No embellished words. Just straight facts. Real situations. No nonsense dramatics. Just pure human emotion. That's why I was not lost to the core of the matter because of constant reminder leaping from the end of each chapter, clearing the path toward my professional development. The book discusses the road would not be an easy feat. None of us get through a career without mistakes and failures. We need to understand this fact if we are to grow.
A professional is not the same as a good professional. It’s the difference in the level of discipline and control they each have that makes the difference. Reading "The Good Professional" motivated me to appreciate each concern and issue as if it was designed and crafted for me alone. The author said that he wanted to write this book in a conversational manner. The simple language that the author used surrounding timeless topics with relevant messages might be contradictory given how professionals take their professions seriously. We expect a plethora of theories and researches and case studies of employee engagement, motivation, commitment, leadership style and management from business self-help books. We do need that, of course.But Don Turner begs to differ. I love how the book's simplicity bear its own significant weight and made it so much more. This is how the best things come in small packages.
To get people to care about what they’re doing, they need to feel they have ownership and control. So, the way this book was written gives power to the readers to approach it the way they want to. You may read it chronologically or jump from one topic to another. It sounds personal and impactful, to me, guarding my own reactions and assessing my strong emotional responses.
It’s actually your job as a good professional to understand your knowledge gaps and to create a plan for filling them. This book inspires me to do just that. I will always consult this book whenever my mental alarm clock raised doubts or negative vibes. It’s a handy tool for someone hoping to become a good professional.
April 20, 2019
The Good Professional provides a concise step-by-step guide for people working in an office environment, who want to improve their work lives and relationships, and advance in their careers. Each chapter covers a different aspect of how to be a good professional, whatever your career.
I liked the fact this book can be read in several ways and be just as effective. The author informs the reader that the book can be read from cover to cover, or chapters can be picked out and read as the need arises.
At the end of each chapter, there is a brief summary in the form of key notes, as in this example from the book:
Key Messages
1. Leadership is more about what you do and less about what
you say.
2. Leadership and management are two very different things.
3. Everyone can and should be a leader.
There are so many different topics and each chapter is well set out. The chapters on Reflection and Critical Thinking are excellent.
I liked the way the author included advice for improving one’s personal life and situation. You can’t be a good professional anything without first taking care of yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally. He offers great advice on cell phone usage at work and in life in general, and explains how we can improve our work performance by being a person who takes care of ourselves.
I might buy a copy and send it anonymously to our corporate boss. Maybe then, we could stop having so many “meetings” which become purely informational download and nothing else- something the author warns about.
What I didn’t like about this book:
Several examples were given of poor work performance, and the employees were both women. One was too busy, or liked to give the appearance of being busy and accomplishing a great deal, when in fact, she was not efficient or effective in her work. The other woman mentioned suffered with being chronically late attendance to meetings and thinking that her mumbled ’sorry’ was an adequate apology or “get-out-of-jail’ free card.
Including a more balanced sampling of men and women who had issues would be wise, so as not to appear to be targeting women as being the poorer employees. Another example was given of Tom, the employee who’d become a manager and was struggling with the adjustment, but he wasn’t portrayed as being at fault. The women mentioned were viewed as inferior employees, which they may well have been. However, it might have been wise to have both men and women represented as such.
At times, the author seemed to be contradicting himself. In earlier chapters he emphasized the importance of being positive.
For example at the end of Chapter 5:
Key Messages
1. Good professionals know they are the best advocates for their
interests.
2. Give yourself permission to participate fully. Don’t let insecurity
keep you from trying.
3. Taking care of your money and your health allows you freedom
and options today and in the future.
Later in the book, I read comments such as this one:
Never complain to anyone about anything. Absolutely no one cares
about your problem in any way, and they don’t want to hear it. They may
not tell you, but it’s true. (Near the end of Chapter 11)
There were other negative statements along the lines of no matter how hard your try, you will never have enough money or time.
There were also other statements that seemed to say, "Get over yourself. Nobody cares."
I understand the author was trying to be bluntly honest, but it was off-putting to read the negativity. My own experience has been that while this is true to a large extent, there are people out there who do take a genuine interest in the well-being and lives of others, even in the workplace.
Overall, this book is a great resource for any workplace professional. I think it works best being read chapter by chapter as needed per topic. I debated on whether to give this book four or five stars, considering some of the issues I described above. I decided to go with five stars. This isn’t a ‘story’ or fictional novel. It’s a well-edited and very thorough book (almost text-book like) that would be a valuable tool for many people needing advice on how to succeed and be more fulfilled and satisfied in the workplace.
I received a pdf copy of this book through Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the fact this book can be read in several ways and be just as effective. The author informs the reader that the book can be read from cover to cover, or chapters can be picked out and read as the need arises.
At the end of each chapter, there is a brief summary in the form of key notes, as in this example from the book:
Key Messages
1. Leadership is more about what you do and less about what
you say.
2. Leadership and management are two very different things.
3. Everyone can and should be a leader.
There are so many different topics and each chapter is well set out. The chapters on Reflection and Critical Thinking are excellent.
I liked the way the author included advice for improving one’s personal life and situation. You can’t be a good professional anything without first taking care of yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally. He offers great advice on cell phone usage at work and in life in general, and explains how we can improve our work performance by being a person who takes care of ourselves.
I might buy a copy and send it anonymously to our corporate boss. Maybe then, we could stop having so many “meetings” which become purely informational download and nothing else- something the author warns about.
What I didn’t like about this book:
Several examples were given of poor work performance, and the employees were both women. One was too busy, or liked to give the appearance of being busy and accomplishing a great deal, when in fact, she was not efficient or effective in her work. The other woman mentioned suffered with being chronically late attendance to meetings and thinking that her mumbled ’sorry’ was an adequate apology or “get-out-of-jail’ free card.
Including a more balanced sampling of men and women who had issues would be wise, so as not to appear to be targeting women as being the poorer employees. Another example was given of Tom, the employee who’d become a manager and was struggling with the adjustment, but he wasn’t portrayed as being at fault. The women mentioned were viewed as inferior employees, which they may well have been. However, it might have been wise to have both men and women represented as such.
At times, the author seemed to be contradicting himself. In earlier chapters he emphasized the importance of being positive.
For example at the end of Chapter 5:
Key Messages
1. Good professionals know they are the best advocates for their
interests.
2. Give yourself permission to participate fully. Don’t let insecurity
keep you from trying.
3. Taking care of your money and your health allows you freedom
and options today and in the future.
Later in the book, I read comments such as this one:
Never complain to anyone about anything. Absolutely no one cares
about your problem in any way, and they don’t want to hear it. They may
not tell you, but it’s true. (Near the end of Chapter 11)
There were other negative statements along the lines of no matter how hard your try, you will never have enough money or time.
There were also other statements that seemed to say, "Get over yourself. Nobody cares."
I understand the author was trying to be bluntly honest, but it was off-putting to read the negativity. My own experience has been that while this is true to a large extent, there are people out there who do take a genuine interest in the well-being and lives of others, even in the workplace.
Overall, this book is a great resource for any workplace professional. I think it works best being read chapter by chapter as needed per topic. I debated on whether to give this book four or five stars, considering some of the issues I described above. I decided to go with five stars. This isn’t a ‘story’ or fictional novel. It’s a well-edited and very thorough book (almost text-book like) that would be a valuable tool for many people needing advice on how to succeed and be more fulfilled and satisfied in the workplace.
I received a pdf copy of this book through Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2019
Good common sense advice for noob employees and seasoned employees
The Good Professional:
Through booktasters, the author was kind enough to offer me a digi copy of the book to read. A small word of warning: my notes and ramblings are all over the place. I posted just a few of my favorite quotes.
“The act of doing can break a well-established pattern of inaction.”
Chapter 22 and his advice on leadership I found most helpful because the points that were highlighted in those chapters reminded me of what I regularly have to do as a teacher.
“…because no matter where we work or what we do, we need the trust and cooperation of others to achieve our goals. You can get what you need if you focus on others instead of yourself.”
Knowledge gaps are not something people LIKE being aware of but the book made important points that advocated for people to become aware of them and to take that awareness of a fault and to perfect it.
The author provided great advice on how to become a good professional. “If you can stop making everything about you, you’ll feel liberated and will be able to add the value you’re supposed to be adding. This is a job that you’re being paid to do. Do your work, and do it quietly and consistently. Do it to the best of your ability. Don’t take shortcuts out of laziness.” The fact that this type of advice is needed to be placed in any book is a bit sad. It’s a shame that there are professionals that lack this advice.
Chapters 10 & 11 made me the most sad because it reminded me of my previous work environment and how many people always seemed so out of focus with their job and with a constant chip off their shoulder.
“Done means done. There is no gray area here. This is a habit you want to maintain.”
The book talked about how it was important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it. I found this chapter the most difficult to implement in my own life, for obvious reasons. I also refuse to depend on digital copies of documents that are important. So I do disagree with that advice he offered about having mainly digital copies .
His chapter on self-awareness was interesting. Although I may be bias in saying that because I find most people’s own perspective on self-awareness insightful and interesting. The book also talked about emotions, the importance of controling emotions and emotional intelligence. This was (in my opinion) the most important chapter. I liked that all the cHapters were short and sweet, but I do wish the book could have talked more on this issue.
He mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. I really liked that the book offered this type of advice to readers.
Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
Pros:
The author has a real ability for narrative writing; I hope to one day find his writing ability expand to other genres like fiction.
I didn’t have to trudge through the chapters trying to decipher complex ideas or business jargon. The author used simple, clear thoughts to help communicate to all readers his opinions and advice.
Each chapter was short and sweet and the final page of each chapter was a recap of the most important points he wanted the reader to remember.
Short book. / Fast paced-finished it in one sitting.
Generally, I dislike anecdotes because authors tend to use them to ‘flulf up’ a book and make it longer all the while forgetting their first idea. But in this book, he sprinkled short anecdotes and I appreciated that they weren’t tediously long and got off topic. They helped the book progress.
Cons:
I liked the book (that’s not the ‘con.’) but I wished it would have captured my attention a bit more.
The writing style was too simplistic and made the advice feel lacking.
The book could have benefited from including case study examples (especially if they would have been written in the same short and simple way that the anecdotes were written in) within the chapters, just to solidify his main idea more.
The Good Professional:
Through booktasters, the author was kind enough to offer me a digi copy of the book to read. A small word of warning: my notes and ramblings are all over the place. I posted just a few of my favorite quotes.
“The act of doing can break a well-established pattern of inaction.”
Chapter 22 and his advice on leadership I found most helpful because the points that were highlighted in those chapters reminded me of what I regularly have to do as a teacher.
“…because no matter where we work or what we do, we need the trust and cooperation of others to achieve our goals. You can get what you need if you focus on others instead of yourself.”
Knowledge gaps are not something people LIKE being aware of but the book made important points that advocated for people to become aware of them and to take that awareness of a fault and to perfect it.
The author provided great advice on how to become a good professional. “If you can stop making everything about you, you’ll feel liberated and will be able to add the value you’re supposed to be adding. This is a job that you’re being paid to do. Do your work, and do it quietly and consistently. Do it to the best of your ability. Don’t take shortcuts out of laziness.” The fact that this type of advice is needed to be placed in any book is a bit sad. It’s a shame that there are professionals that lack this advice.
Chapters 10 & 11 made me the most sad because it reminded me of my previous work environment and how many people always seemed so out of focus with their job and with a constant chip off their shoulder.
“Done means done. There is no gray area here. This is a habit you want to maintain.”
The book talked about how it was important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it. I found this chapter the most difficult to implement in my own life, for obvious reasons. I also refuse to depend on digital copies of documents that are important. So I do disagree with that advice he offered about having mainly digital copies .
His chapter on self-awareness was interesting. Although I may be bias in saying that because I find most people’s own perspective on self-awareness insightful and interesting. The book also talked about emotions, the importance of controling emotions and emotional intelligence. This was (in my opinion) the most important chapter. I liked that all the cHapters were short and sweet, but I do wish the book could have talked more on this issue.
He mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. I really liked that the book offered this type of advice to readers.
Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
Pros:
The author has a real ability for narrative writing; I hope to one day find his writing ability expand to other genres like fiction.
I didn’t have to trudge through the chapters trying to decipher complex ideas or business jargon. The author used simple, clear thoughts to help communicate to all readers his opinions and advice.
Each chapter was short and sweet and the final page of each chapter was a recap of the most important points he wanted the reader to remember.
Short book. / Fast paced-finished it in one sitting.
Generally, I dislike anecdotes because authors tend to use them to ‘flulf up’ a book and make it longer all the while forgetting their first idea. But in this book, he sprinkled short anecdotes and I appreciated that they weren’t tediously long and got off topic. They helped the book progress.
Cons:
I liked the book (that’s not the ‘con.’) but I wished it would have captured my attention a bit more.
The writing style was too simplistic and made the advice feel lacking.
The book could have benefited from including case study examples (especially if they would have been written in the same short and simple way that the anecdotes were written in) within the chapters, just to solidify his main idea more.
December 24, 2019
The Good Professional provides tools and techniques to take control of your work life, get more done, and be happier.
When Friday afternoon comes, you're flying high, but reality sets in while you're watching television Sunday evening. Monday morning is coming, and you can't stop it.
When work is constantly buzzing in the back of your head, you know things are bad. You also know that you are not fully engaged in all the other aspects of your life. This is exactly what happens to millions of people every day. The good news is that you can fix this problem
The book talked about how it was important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it. I found this chapter the most difficult to implement in my own life, for obvious reasons. I also refuse to depend on digital copies of documents that are important. So I do disagree with that advice he offered about having mainly digital copies .
His chapter on self-awareness was interesting. Although I may be bias in saying that because I find most people’s own perspective on self-awareness insightful and interesting. The book also talked about emotions, the importance of controling emotions and emotional intelligence. This was (in my opinion) the most important chapter. I liked that all the cHapters were short and sweet, but I do wish the book could have talked more on this issue. J
He mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. I really liked that the book offered this type of advice to readers. Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
When Friday afternoon comes, you're flying high, but reality sets in while you're watching television Sunday evening. Monday morning is coming, and you can't stop it.
When work is constantly buzzing in the back of your head, you know things are bad. You also know that you are not fully engaged in all the other aspects of your life. This is exactly what happens to millions of people every day. The good news is that you can fix this problem
The book talked about how it was important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it. I found this chapter the most difficult to implement in my own life, for obvious reasons. I also refuse to depend on digital copies of documents that are important. So I do disagree with that advice he offered about having mainly digital copies .
His chapter on self-awareness was interesting. Although I may be bias in saying that because I find most people’s own perspective on self-awareness insightful and interesting. The book also talked about emotions, the importance of controling emotions and emotional intelligence. This was (in my opinion) the most important chapter. I liked that all the cHapters were short and sweet, but I do wish the book could have talked more on this issue. J
He mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. I really liked that the book offered this type of advice to readers. Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
May 3, 2019
GREAT book! It is serendipitous when you find a book that addresses all of your most recent issues around work, career, life and even relationships.
Just one of the early quotes: "Take the action that will lead to completion. You're just as capable as anyone else. Be brave. Take a chance. You'll be glad you did. Believe in yourself. Why not you?"
This is a book that you would want to come back to for life. It is not only about being a good professional, but also being a good human being. This is something I would prescribe to everybody while still at school, preparing for life. It would also be great to get all this sage advice studying towards a professional qualification at university/college.
I love the fact that this book is not heavenly laded with technical and academic jargon, but written in a style that's easy to comprehend. I love the anecdotes that come with each chapter.
There are 40 chapters starting from "Why not You?", "Stop seeking approval", "It's not your job" to "Critical Thinking", "Managing Others" and "It's your career". One read-through is not enough, and I will be coming back for more. You can start and read from the beginning, or choose chapters that resonate with you. The down-to-earth logical wisdom makes total sense, but sometimes we get caught up in the daily grind of work-life. I for one have found a new sense and purpose to ingest into my professional life.
This book will make a great gift to anyone!
Disclaimer: I got a pdf of this book from Don Turner via Booktasters. Thanks so much! I would not have found it if it was not for Booktasters.
Just one of the early quotes: "Take the action that will lead to completion. You're just as capable as anyone else. Be brave. Take a chance. You'll be glad you did. Believe in yourself. Why not you?"
This is a book that you would want to come back to for life. It is not only about being a good professional, but also being a good human being. This is something I would prescribe to everybody while still at school, preparing for life. It would also be great to get all this sage advice studying towards a professional qualification at university/college.
I love the fact that this book is not heavenly laded with technical and academic jargon, but written in a style that's easy to comprehend. I love the anecdotes that come with each chapter.
There are 40 chapters starting from "Why not You?", "Stop seeking approval", "It's not your job" to "Critical Thinking", "Managing Others" and "It's your career". One read-through is not enough, and I will be coming back for more. You can start and read from the beginning, or choose chapters that resonate with you. The down-to-earth logical wisdom makes total sense, but sometimes we get caught up in the daily grind of work-life. I for one have found a new sense and purpose to ingest into my professional life.
This book will make a great gift to anyone!
Disclaimer: I got a pdf of this book from Don Turner via Booktasters. Thanks so much! I would not have found it if it was not for Booktasters.
July 27, 2019
Promises that you'll see results after reading a book you are holding or upgrading your point of view are very well-known. I dislike those kinds of guarantees. However, this book is different.
First, it is easy to read. The main points to keep in mind are noted at the end of each chapter.
Second, reading this book is like reading a manual on how to become better at your work whether you are a student, or employed. Believe me. This book is not just for those who want to maximize their performance but also for people who want to know more about how they will be able to bring the best out of them.
Third, this book is not only a self-help one but is also motivational.
Fourth, each chapter will make you think twice. You can disagree, but it will still make you wonder. Wait. I'm not sure if this can happen to anyone, but it did happen to me. "Think more under about the possibilities," is the phrase I always tell to myself when I was reading this.
In short, this book helped me reconsider my arguments and think even more, which I love.
Would I recommend this book?
One word: YES.
In my opinion, everyone must know what the author has written here. It doesn't matter if you are already familiar with the situations and the techniques that have been formulated because this book can help you exercise your brain and make you analyze your workplace. (which is great, you know.)
First, it is easy to read. The main points to keep in mind are noted at the end of each chapter.
Second, reading this book is like reading a manual on how to become better at your work whether you are a student, or employed. Believe me. This book is not just for those who want to maximize their performance but also for people who want to know more about how they will be able to bring the best out of them.
Third, this book is not only a self-help one but is also motivational.
Fourth, each chapter will make you think twice. You can disagree, but it will still make you wonder. Wait. I'm not sure if this can happen to anyone, but it did happen to me. "Think more under about the possibilities," is the phrase I always tell to myself when I was reading this.
In short, this book helped me reconsider my arguments and think even more, which I love.
Would I recommend this book?
One word: YES.
In my opinion, everyone must know what the author has written here. It doesn't matter if you are already familiar with the situations and the techniques that have been formulated because this book can help you exercise your brain and make you analyze your workplace. (which is great, you know.)
November 8, 2019
Informative guide!
This is one of the best books I ever read in Business self-help books. This book talks about how it is important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it.
Usually when we read books like this, it's mostly based on case studies or got theoretical perspectives. But this book's language is pretty straightforward as if a friend is talking about his/her experiences.
He has mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. This is best part I like about the book offering this type of advice to readers.
Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
Apart from that, my most favourite chapters are
8: About Self-awareness
9: Managing emotions
and 22: The Recipe for Execution.
In the book, the author not only talks about concepts every one should know and understand but also gives clear ideas on how to implement them with a few slaps of reality. This book should be a required reading for any one looking for clarity on how to be a Good Professional!
This is one of the best books I ever read in Business self-help books. This book talks about how it is important for good professionals to clear clutter that surrounds them, whether it’s mental or physical clutter, it’s imperative that people get rid of it.
Usually when we read books like this, it's mostly based on case studies or got theoretical perspectives. But this book's language is pretty straightforward as if a friend is talking about his/her experiences.
He has mentioned the importance of having basic skills like reading, writing and knowing simple math. This is best part I like about the book offering this type of advice to readers.
Another super important skill he dedicated an entire chapter for was critical thinking. This chapter alone and the importance that it holds for any professional is worthy of an entire book. Not enough critical thinking is taught in schools or work so it was nice to encounter this advice for a good professional in the book.
Apart from that, my most favourite chapters are
8: About Self-awareness
9: Managing emotions
and 22: The Recipe for Execution.
In the book, the author not only talks about concepts every one should know and understand but also gives clear ideas on how to implement them with a few slaps of reality. This book should be a required reading for any one looking for clarity on how to be a Good Professional!
December 26, 2019
I always read business books to encourage me to be a more skillful person.
This book contributes to this aim.
This book is based on the author's long experience in business and communication with others.
So, the message for the author is very helpful and useful to those in the organization.
Moreover, the content is quite wide from concrete technics to mentality.
The one thing which is impressive to me is that chapter 4.
This chapter shows that doing is more and more important than talking.
I think this is an essential thought.
It is very easy for us to comment on or have opinions about something recently as we are surrounded by too much information.
However, it is an accomplishment that we should value at the business scene. That reminds me of what is important for us.
The other thing is the message"It's Okey to be self-interested."
This seems to be a little selfish on the surface.
However, the author tells us that we are primarily responsible for ourselves.
I find that self-interest leads us to the gold which we have.
Besides the above, this book includes various messages.
I believe this book is a wonderful guide if you would like to go ahead of others.
April 16, 2019
Refreshingly relevant, straightforward, engaging.
There are so many "self-help" books that mostly spend time focuses on what you need to correct and, probably, more reinforce your need for help than provide guidance in doing so. This is NOT in that genre of book at all- this is like a reference/resource book with chapters that can be easily digested, with deceiving straight-forward writing style. However, I found myself, time and again, reading a section, putting it down to absorb it more fully, going back and re-reading that passage or chapter. It really targets aspects of work, management, leadership in an engaging, relevant way. No fluff, not a lot of "extra"- Sometimes, I find I get 2/3 of the way through a book and I feel like I should be done- lots of repetition to fill the remaining pages. This book is the opposite. I found each chapter to build on the next with "layers" of information that made me committed to reading the entire thing and feel that I would benefit from doing so. I believe this is a great book to read and then re-read, put on a shelve and down the road a bit, read again.
There are so many "self-help" books that mostly spend time focuses on what you need to correct and, probably, more reinforce your need for help than provide guidance in doing so. This is NOT in that genre of book at all- this is like a reference/resource book with chapters that can be easily digested, with deceiving straight-forward writing style. However, I found myself, time and again, reading a section, putting it down to absorb it more fully, going back and re-reading that passage or chapter. It really targets aspects of work, management, leadership in an engaging, relevant way. No fluff, not a lot of "extra"- Sometimes, I find I get 2/3 of the way through a book and I feel like I should be done- lots of repetition to fill the remaining pages. This book is the opposite. I found each chapter to build on the next with "layers" of information that made me committed to reading the entire thing and feel that I would benefit from doing so. I believe this is a great book to read and then re-read, put on a shelve and down the road a bit, read again.
April 29, 2019
So this is a step by step guide for people working in an office setting. I found this guide really informative and he definitely had some great points that can be used in your personal life and not just an office setting. I really appreciated the fact that he pointed out how important leadership is and that anyone can be a leader, also that leadership and management are two different aspects of a business. He did give examples and some were cheesy but they did get the point across. I also really enjoyed that the author wrote the book in such a manner that it does not include business lingo or jargon so basically anyone can pick up the book and go with it, they will not have to decipher business jargon. This author also has a way to keep the writing fluent enough that you really do not have to take a breather then continue. Also, I have to appreciate that while this book can be read as a whole the chapters can also be read alone if situations arise on that particular subject! Over all i would have to say this is a win and i would recommend the book to anyone looking for insight on working in an office setting.
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September 21, 2020The good professional was an amazing read! I enjoyed it so much despite the fact that i had to be on and off it several time (personal stuff). I would safely say this book had everything i have been looking for in personal development books. I appreciate the amount of topics it encompassed. Everyone aspiring to grow professionally must read it. Highly recommend! I used Too many highlighting in this one particularly. ‘The key message’ part was very helpful as i proceeded. I personally read them first then went back to the chapter. It helped me acquire as much information as I already knew what the core message of that chapter was. I also loved that it was broad! Sometimes you need a focused and detailed book on a single subject and most books are written that way. But sometimes, You also need a general briefing and important reminder like this one. Thanks Don, u have delivered quite impressively!
May 17, 2019
Simplicity is a great way to deliver your idea. Don Turner walked his talk by writing a simple but mind blowing book that addressed the needs of any person seeking to be a Good Professional. And Yes Don, I took several things from reading the Good Professional that I will implement not only in my work but also in my life.
Each chapter got its own layers of information, tactics and to the point definitions of several terminologies in addition to key messages that helps the reader to digest the introduced methodologies.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a way to be the “Good Professional”.
Each chapter got its own layers of information, tactics and to the point definitions of several terminologies in addition to key messages that helps the reader to digest the introduced methodologies.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a way to be the “Good Professional”.
January 18, 2020
Generally after few pages Non Friction books gets bit boring and lacks motivation to go further but The Good Professional was a page turner for a change.
Author did a great work explaing his long experience in a crispy way.
Must read for those who are starting their business or profession.
Book was written in a simple language so that people can correlate with their personal experiences. Author has worked hard to bring corelation with practical aspects of daily activities.
Impressive quotes
"The act of doung can break a well established pattern of inaction"
"Done means done. There is no grey area here. This is the habbit you want to maintain"
Author did a great work explaing his long experience in a crispy way.
Must read for those who are starting their business or profession.
Book was written in a simple language so that people can correlate with their personal experiences. Author has worked hard to bring corelation with practical aspects of daily activities.
Impressive quotes
"The act of doung can break a well established pattern of inaction"
"Done means done. There is no grey area here. This is the habbit you want to maintain"
January 28, 2020
I'm not really a self-help-guide-book person but as I grow up, I'm beginning to appreciate books like The Good Professional for their immense practicality. Don Turner does an excellent job delivering useful, concise pieces of advice to his readers that will see them through many trials of a professional life. I think I'll find myself referring to several of the chapters that really resonated with me as I delve deeper into the working world. I really do recommend giving The Good Professional a go, even if you only read fiction, it'll change your attitude towards any work you have to commit to.
August 27, 2020
Finally a user Manual for Professionals 😊.
The Good Professional is a concise Self Help Book written in simple language that addresses various aspects of the workplace. The chapters are written in a way that allows the reader to start with the chapters most pertinent to them. That is what I did.
The advice is practical and relevant. No use of unnecessary Jargon and each chapter has Summary points that highlight some of the important points in that chapter. It also has great productivity Quotables.
I would recommend it for anyone with a professional career they are looking to improve. It can also make for a great reference book. I Loved It!
The Good Professional is a concise Self Help Book written in simple language that addresses various aspects of the workplace. The chapters are written in a way that allows the reader to start with the chapters most pertinent to them. That is what I did.
The advice is practical and relevant. No use of unnecessary Jargon and each chapter has Summary points that highlight some of the important points in that chapter. It also has great productivity Quotables.
I would recommend it for anyone with a professional career they are looking to improve. It can also make for a great reference book. I Loved It!
September 18, 2019
I really liked this book. My goal is to start reading more professional career books and this was a great place to start! I love the Key Messages at the end of each chapter and how each chapter has its own focus. This is a book I will come back to on a chapter over chapter basis just to make sure I’m focusing on the right areas for me! The author is straight to the point and it feels like you could be having a conversation right on the pages. I personally love the Stop Seeking Approval chapter! Many many good points and I would recommend to any one!
February 18, 2020
The book is a systematic breakdown of points to consider in the corporate world, both as an employee and a leader/manager. It touches on how to conduct oneself as a professional at the workplace among our colleagues and bosses; when and how to take action, how to communicate effectively regardless of our rank in the workplace and why it matters, what strategy means and how it is deployed and several other topics that make a good difference in the workplace.
The book is short, simple and straight to the point.
The book is short, simple and straight to the point.
June 8, 2020
A pretty good book that anyone who needs a guidence to be a good professional should read it. It helps manage your time, schedule, commiunications, engagements and whatever you need to succeed in your job or even in your life. It shows you how to plan for your career and what is important to reach your goals and what things may through you out of your way. I think I need read it again and again
I suggest everyone to read this book, if you are an employee or a manager or a leader etc. It could be useful to you
I suggest everyone to read this book, if you are an employee or a manager or a leader etc. It could be useful to you
September 30, 2020
The Good Professional is a must read for anyone trying to shape his/her career.
It is excellent in terms of simple to grasp language.
The concepts presented are in a brief manner but are enough to equip you with the necessary tools to help you succeed professionally.
Especially enjoyed reflecting on the self-awareness parts. Some of the old sayings that are aptly presented make you rethink what you've been taught by the society.
A great read. Would be a great pick for anyone in any stage of his professional life.
It is excellent in terms of simple to grasp language.
The concepts presented are in a brief manner but are enough to equip you with the necessary tools to help you succeed professionally.
Especially enjoyed reflecting on the self-awareness parts. Some of the old sayings that are aptly presented make you rethink what you've been taught by the society.
A great read. Would be a great pick for anyone in any stage of his professional life.
January 26, 2020
Awesome Book , I would recommend this book to all professionals and college graduates , who are passing out to become part of corporate jobs. Important management messages are conveyed in simple language without using typical management jargons. Key messages at end of every chapter provides gist and an honest attempt by author in explaining various corporate concepts to become good professional. Never let you feel bore.
November 12, 2020
As the title says, this book is great for helping you work more productively and be happier in your professional life. It is not the type of book that I usually read, but this one has an easy language without abusing technical words to appear more than it is. The book is more like a manual than a self-help book.
The author did an exceptional job of writing a book that is easy to read and is not boring. Excellent book for anyone looking to improve their work and relationships.
The author did an exceptional job of writing a book that is easy to read and is not boring. Excellent book for anyone looking to improve their work and relationships.
April 11, 2019
A very simple,straightforward way of looking at your professional conduct.His way of explaining your role as a professional in the office is so simple,its mind blowing.It's like having your own professional coach,everyday.What I like is that you can go back and refer,every single time you hit a glitch.
September 15, 2020
A very helpful well-explained Guide to a successful and happy work life, providing easy to do tips and techniques, best practices for all kind of situations and a description of different working characters. It could serve as a checklist for self-examination and a reminder of the business world basics.
Recommended for everyone interested in becoming not only a professional, but also a good one.
Recommended for everyone interested in becoming not only a professional, but also a good one.
July 27, 2019
An excellent book by Don Turner. The Good Professional is written in a simple and very effective way, this book is a quick guide on what aspects a ' professional' needs to bear a mind and it also helps a lot in motivating and inspiring the youth on how to handle their professional life.
October 2, 2019
It took a while for me to finish it but it was completely worth it. As an employee, I haven't grown at the rate that I should and this book made me understand why. It is insightful and even offers pointers on how to thrive in your professional space. I'd definitely recommend it.
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March 30, 2020One of the best professional books l've ever read.
The simple instructions and points illustrated are realistic and no doubt uplift one's professional life.
l would recommend this book to any professional looking at being efficient, effective and getting things done.
The simple instructions and points illustrated are realistic and no doubt uplift one's professional life.
l would recommend this book to any professional looking at being efficient, effective and getting things done.
April 30, 2020
There are some books you lay hands on and they resonate with you on a deep level, the author lays out the most applicable means to improving task execution and work efficiency, a book that fully reflects it's well chosen title.
November 18, 2019
This book reflects on all the undermined aspects of a professional life. The writer has very convincingly and clearly have written the guideline or path to excel professionally.
August 15, 2022
The best professional development book i have read, i waited till December to read it as learning point highlighting my success and failures in the year.
Come 2020, i will develop as i implement my learning points,
The best part is you can chose in order of priority what to focus on.
I recommend this book for all who want to grow professionally.
Looking forward to my career next year as i have the bible to grow.
Happy reading.
Come 2020, i will develop as i implement my learning points,
The best part is you can chose in order of priority what to focus on.
I recommend this book for all who want to grow professionally.
Looking forward to my career next year as i have the bible to grow.
Happy reading.
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