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Skill It, Kill It: Up Your Game
GETTING YOUR DEGREE WASN'T THE FINISH LINE IT WAS JUST THE BEGINNING
Ever wondered why CEOs, leaders and recruiters talk endlessly about soft skills? Job interviews, promotions, appraisals, teamwork, managing workplace challenges, communication skills and a lot more-soft skills give you a sizeable professional edge to ace all
of these.
In this book, Ronnie Screwvala shares personal stories and observations from his many failures and few successes to give you an insider's view of the invisible' skills which can cut years off your learning curve. Practical, actionable and peppered with advice from successful leaders, Skill It, Kill It will ensure you're future-proof in these ever-changing times and ready to stand out among your peers.
Ever wondered why CEOs, leaders and recruiters talk endlessly about soft skills? Job interviews, promotions, appraisals, teamwork, managing workplace challenges, communication skills and a lot more-soft skills give you a sizeable professional edge to ace all
of these.
In this book, Ronnie Screwvala shares personal stories and observations from his many failures and few successes to give you an insider's view of the invisible' skills which can cut years off your learning curve. Practical, actionable and peppered with advice from successful leaders, Skill It, Kill It will ensure you're future-proof in these ever-changing times and ready to stand out among your peers.
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Published July 1, 2021
31 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 3, 2021
Casually breezing through a reading slump 💪🏻
This was moving fast towards a toxic hustle promotional but thank god he talked about mental health breaks 🤲🏻
Overall good read, I see myself going back to it to refer a few chapters
This was moving fast towards a toxic hustle promotional but thank god he talked about mental health breaks 🤲🏻
Overall good read, I see myself going back to it to refer a few chapters
July 24, 2021
I like how effectively author has communicated about how effective communication is!!
February 26, 2023
This book was gifted to me by a leader at my organization... It's a good one for someone who is starting out their career, probably uptil 3 years of work experience.
Ronnie's thoughts around focusing on goals instead of tasks and finding your mentor were insightful.
Ronnie's thoughts around focusing on goals instead of tasks and finding your mentor were insightful.
November 18, 2021
It is always good to hear from people who have achieved success, and get their perspective on what helped them to work through the odds and roadblocks that they faced during their journey.
In this book, Ronnie Screwvala starts off by sharing from his experience that education and professional skills are simply a foundation and often not enough to mould your career. He acknowledges that soft skills and attitude have played a far bigger role in his success and shares what worked for him - effective communication (perfected with hours of practicing and rehearing), storytelling to connect with people and leave an impression, learning to listen to absorb and not react, focusing on goals and not tasks, avoiding multi-tasking and distractions and instead giving full attention, constant recharging with positive energy (even avoiding energy draining people and tasks as far as possible)… and combining these soft-skills with the right attitude - taking a little more responsibility, focusing on being a problem-solver and going beyond being good enough and looking to shine…
He shares his strong belief that in today’s world of constant (and sometimes turbulent) change, it is imperative to constantly upgrade knowledge and skills (both horizontally and vertically) and lifelong learning is the only way to be prepared and focused for the change that is bound to happen, for the obstacles that will come up - now or later.
He encourages us to think big… to take charge of our life and not let the fear of failure hold us back… to build up belief in ourselves by taking risks - starting with small risks and building up from there… he reminds us that success depends on our ambition, effort and determination… and requires focus, hard work and sacrifice. He confirms that it is not easy, and that the one trait that differentiates winners from losers is that they want it badly enough and stick it out, that they stay away from excuses and keep trying and are willing to pay the price… and that this requires self-motivation - which is hard and yet powerful.
The insights are practical and I can say that from my own entrepreneurial experience as well… I agree with the author that it is only our own choices, behaviours and beliefs that we have direct control over and that is what always makes the difference - our self-confidence, self-reliance, self-motivation, self-conviction, self-discipline, self-control…
The one thought that stayed with me - as with many other success stories - is the ability to persevere where many other would have given up… but not many people openly talk about the strength to make sacrifices, the willingness to accept the price paid, the intense desire to achieve the goal… managing to do this with both feet on the ground and eyes on the future is incredible - hard but inspiring. But showing that it can all be done with fun, joy and pride in everything is the encouragement that we all need!
In this book, Ronnie Screwvala starts off by sharing from his experience that education and professional skills are simply a foundation and often not enough to mould your career. He acknowledges that soft skills and attitude have played a far bigger role in his success and shares what worked for him - effective communication (perfected with hours of practicing and rehearing), storytelling to connect with people and leave an impression, learning to listen to absorb and not react, focusing on goals and not tasks, avoiding multi-tasking and distractions and instead giving full attention, constant recharging with positive energy (even avoiding energy draining people and tasks as far as possible)… and combining these soft-skills with the right attitude - taking a little more responsibility, focusing on being a problem-solver and going beyond being good enough and looking to shine…
He shares his strong belief that in today’s world of constant (and sometimes turbulent) change, it is imperative to constantly upgrade knowledge and skills (both horizontally and vertically) and lifelong learning is the only way to be prepared and focused for the change that is bound to happen, for the obstacles that will come up - now or later.
He encourages us to think big… to take charge of our life and not let the fear of failure hold us back… to build up belief in ourselves by taking risks - starting with small risks and building up from there… he reminds us that success depends on our ambition, effort and determination… and requires focus, hard work and sacrifice. He confirms that it is not easy, and that the one trait that differentiates winners from losers is that they want it badly enough and stick it out, that they stay away from excuses and keep trying and are willing to pay the price… and that this requires self-motivation - which is hard and yet powerful.
The insights are practical and I can say that from my own entrepreneurial experience as well… I agree with the author that it is only our own choices, behaviours and beliefs that we have direct control over and that is what always makes the difference - our self-confidence, self-reliance, self-motivation, self-conviction, self-discipline, self-control…
The one thought that stayed with me - as with many other success stories - is the ability to persevere where many other would have given up… but not many people openly talk about the strength to make sacrifices, the willingness to accept the price paid, the intense desire to achieve the goal… managing to do this with both feet on the ground and eyes on the future is incredible - hard but inspiring. But showing that it can all be done with fun, joy and pride in everything is the encouragement that we all need!
October 10, 2021
Book: Skill It! Kill It!
Author: Ronnie Screwvala
Ronnie challenges, empowers, enlightens and nudges the inner core of the reader to ‘rise, commit, listen and sacrifice’ to upskill and upgrade to be able to climb the career-ladder.
With a very honest, clear and confident voice Ronnie is spot-on about every aspect of work-life touched upon in the book.
Superb clarity on mentorship, work-life balance, definition of failure and most importantly self-confidence, the author has captured every aspect of professional life.
His varied experiences clubbed with his horizontal exposure across industries adds depth and detail to his opinions and advice. Sprinkling of words of wisdom from industry tycoons and highly influential people adds more value to the book, while emphasising the fact that how all successful industry leaders are on the same page regarding professional etiquettes.
Flow and format of the book is very refreshing. Having incorporated thought-bits of professionals from across the nation he addresses them. It has been well intertwined into the flow and gist of every topic.
Anyone desirous of taking a sneak-peek into how the corporate world thrives should surely pick this book. Along with insightful dos and don'ts Ronnie gives the reader a piece of employers' mind making his sharing highly relevant.
This book adds a whole new value and understanding to the term 'Soft-skills'. It also clears a few myths on multitasking, being a mentee and career growth. Importance of communication, seeking guidance, work-place connections to taking risk he has incorporated all that is a must-know along the learning-curve of life.
Author: Ronnie Screwvala
Ronnie challenges, empowers, enlightens and nudges the inner core of the reader to ‘rise, commit, listen and sacrifice’ to upskill and upgrade to be able to climb the career-ladder.
With a very honest, clear and confident voice Ronnie is spot-on about every aspect of work-life touched upon in the book.
Superb clarity on mentorship, work-life balance, definition of failure and most importantly self-confidence, the author has captured every aspect of professional life.
His varied experiences clubbed with his horizontal exposure across industries adds depth and detail to his opinions and advice. Sprinkling of words of wisdom from industry tycoons and highly influential people adds more value to the book, while emphasising the fact that how all successful industry leaders are on the same page regarding professional etiquettes.
Flow and format of the book is very refreshing. Having incorporated thought-bits of professionals from across the nation he addresses them. It has been well intertwined into the flow and gist of every topic.
Anyone desirous of taking a sneak-peek into how the corporate world thrives should surely pick this book. Along with insightful dos and don'ts Ronnie gives the reader a piece of employers' mind making his sharing highly relevant.
This book adds a whole new value and understanding to the term 'Soft-skills'. It also clears a few myths on multitasking, being a mentee and career growth. Importance of communication, seeking guidance, work-place connections to taking risk he has incorporated all that is a must-know along the learning-curve of life.
October 25, 2022
Didn't need to exist.
Came as a freebie with my spouse's UpGrad adventure, seems to be written specifically with that target audience in mind. Not for the mature-hearted.
With the Indian diaspora of unsolicited-life-advice-dispensers shifting to newer pastures(read, social media platforms), considering the technological improvements over the years, there is enough content/tips floating around from influencers/life-coaches on how to effectively steer through this seemingly barren 'expressway' of one's professional life, specifically in the technology sector. It's a daily grind, wherein you strive to be a better version of yourself each day(learn from Microsoft windows updates), take risks, surround yourself with positive peers(cheers !), steer away from the negative one's(alas, will become a loner!), and voila, you see 'success' straight ahead, welcoming you in her(or his) seductive embrace.
The book however, missed the chapter to define and broaden the idea of 'success', to introduce the bell/power-curve of success and life in general. The fact that, one should be enthusiastic enough to organically 'skill-it', without the necessary need to 'kill-it'.
Came as a freebie with my spouse's UpGrad adventure, seems to be written specifically with that target audience in mind. Not for the mature-hearted.
With the Indian diaspora of unsolicited-life-advice-dispensers shifting to newer pastures(read, social media platforms), considering the technological improvements over the years, there is enough content/tips floating around from influencers/life-coaches on how to effectively steer through this seemingly barren 'expressway' of one's professional life, specifically in the technology sector. It's a daily grind, wherein you strive to be a better version of yourself each day(learn from Microsoft windows updates), take risks, surround yourself with positive peers(cheers !), steer away from the negative one's(alas, will become a loner!), and voila, you see 'success' straight ahead, welcoming you in her(or his) seductive embrace.
The book however, missed the chapter to define and broaden the idea of 'success', to introduce the bell/power-curve of success and life in general. The fact that, one should be enthusiastic enough to organically 'skill-it', without the necessary need to 'kill-it'.
February 18, 2024
Ronnie Screwvala's Skill It, Kill It is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to up their game in the ever-changing world of work. 👨💻
💬 Focus on "invisible skills": Screwvala emphasises the importance of soft skills like critical thinking, communication, and adaptability. These are often overlooked but crucial for success.
🌀 Embrace lifelong learning: The book encourages continuous learning and staying curious. This resonated deeply, as staying ahead of the curve is paramount in today's dynamic landscape.
🧗♂️ Action trumps planning: Screwvala advocates for taking initiative and not waiting for opportunities to come knocking. This resonated as it pushes you to be proactive and shape your own career path.
🎭 Learn from both successes and failures: Screwvala candidly shares his own experiences, emphasising the value of learning from both triumphs and setbacks. This reminder to embrace challenges was refreshing.
This book isn't just for aspiring entrepreneurs - it's for anyone who wants to stand out, add value, and thrive in their professional journey.🌟
💬 Focus on "invisible skills": Screwvala emphasises the importance of soft skills like critical thinking, communication, and adaptability. These are often overlooked but crucial for success.
🌀 Embrace lifelong learning: The book encourages continuous learning and staying curious. This resonated deeply, as staying ahead of the curve is paramount in today's dynamic landscape.
🧗♂️ Action trumps planning: Screwvala advocates for taking initiative and not waiting for opportunities to come knocking. This resonated as it pushes you to be proactive and shape your own career path.
🎭 Learn from both successes and failures: Screwvala candidly shares his own experiences, emphasising the value of learning from both triumphs and setbacks. This reminder to embrace challenges was refreshing.
This book isn't just for aspiring entrepreneurs - it's for anyone who wants to stand out, add value, and thrive in their professional journey.🌟
March 29, 2023
It is essential to have soft skills for career progress; that many technical people (including me) lack. This book is replete with examples of how having these skills have helped people (including the author) progress in their career or - self decrepitatingly - the lack of these have hindered the author, Ronnie Screwala from progressing.
Some of the things I must learn are:
- to never interrupt a person who is talking I am missing out on a lot as well as annoying the person across.
- preparation for an interview: to ask questions - show interest
- body language - show interest with eye contact and hand gestures
Read the book to find out more
Some of the things I must learn are:
- to never interrupt a person who is talking I am missing out on a lot as well as annoying the person across.
- preparation for an interview: to ask questions - show interest
- body language - show interest with eye contact and hand gestures
Read the book to find out more
July 19, 2021
At a personal level, Skill It Kill It has motivated me with practicality. Ronnie Screwala, has written this book based on his life experiences as entrepreneur (and perhaps has considered his responsibility to pass on the information). Skill It Kill It is certainly a battery to draw energy from time to time and a book to be read many time on the career course.
FAVOURITE HIGHLIGHTS
Achievers are too bushy shining to waste time whining.
Your career is your responsibility.
Just go out and do it. The thing you are most scared of.
LOL – Listen, observe and learn.
Actively solve problems
Speak up
It’s all about whether you are willing to pay the price while having a smile on your face ALWAUS.
When you don’t expect empathy, you do much better.
Don’t think too much and wait for a crisis to hit you.
Lifelong learning is the heartbeat of career success.
How badly do you want something?
Always have 2 (not more) stuffs you need badly in life.
Instead of opportunities to come your way at work, you create and pursue opportunities.
No double talk, no double standards.
I believe, this book could prove to be of aid and guidance to people who need a mentorship. Mentorship from someone who has learnt by doing. But there is no magic in the book. One needs to take responsibility of clarity of thought and actions of life.
FAVOURITE HIGHLIGHTS
Achievers are too bushy shining to waste time whining.
Your career is your responsibility.
Just go out and do it. The thing you are most scared of.
LOL – Listen, observe and learn.
Actively solve problems
Speak up
It’s all about whether you are willing to pay the price while having a smile on your face ALWAUS.
When you don’t expect empathy, you do much better.
Don’t think too much and wait for a crisis to hit you.
Lifelong learning is the heartbeat of career success.
How badly do you want something?
Always have 2 (not more) stuffs you need badly in life.
Instead of opportunities to come your way at work, you create and pursue opportunities.
No double talk, no double standards.
I believe, this book could prove to be of aid and guidance to people who need a mentorship. Mentorship from someone who has learnt by doing. But there is no magic in the book. One needs to take responsibility of clarity of thought and actions of life.
September 11, 2021
The author has done a real good job in explaining the importance of soft skills and need of upskilling to level up with the growing demand of the industry.
Here's a direct quote from the book -
"One of the riskiest decisions a professional can make is pursuing a path of 'stable career growth' by trying not to stand out. 'High career growth' - constantly developing new skills and taking on great work responsibilities - is not only for the super ambitious; it's for everyone who cares about their career."
Here's a direct quote from the book -
"One of the riskiest decisions a professional can make is pursuing a path of 'stable career growth' by trying not to stand out. 'High career growth' - constantly developing new skills and taking on great work responsibilities - is not only for the super ambitious; it's for everyone who cares about their career."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2022
I absolutely loved this book, and as in loved I TOTALLY LOVED IT.
The author totally succeeded in connecting with youth of our country. Instead of blabbering advices, he gave examples even he own stories.
Another thing that make the book more resourceful was insights of other entrepreneurs, who gave amazing and motivating advice, in many aspects.
Also with Intext advices or learning of people in 20s and 30s, actually it gave simplicity to the book and of course, authenticity.
The book doesn't have big quotes, but subtle words for anyone to understand 🙂
The author totally succeeded in connecting with youth of our country. Instead of blabbering advices, he gave examples even he own stories.
Another thing that make the book more resourceful was insights of other entrepreneurs, who gave amazing and motivating advice, in many aspects.
Also with Intext advices or learning of people in 20s and 30s, actually it gave simplicity to the book and of course, authenticity.
The book doesn't have big quotes, but subtle words for anyone to understand 🙂
May 8, 2023
This review will be biased as Ronnie is one of the entrepreneurs I admire the most.
This book truly reflects on Ronnie's work experience and his journey of adapting new and important soft skills. This book aims to address working employees, however, I believe even new entrepreneurs will find it very insightful and meaningful to learn from.
A recommended read.
This book truly reflects on Ronnie's work experience and his journey of adapting new and important soft skills. This book aims to address working employees, however, I believe even new entrepreneurs will find it very insightful and meaningful to learn from.
A recommended read.
January 4, 2023
Cool and short guide summary for self help
Easy read.Definitely few pointers will make significant impact to course correct in their daily routine/career/learning life.Personally having read many similar books did not find too varied insights though.
Easy read.Definitely few pointers will make significant impact to course correct in their daily routine/career/learning life.Personally having read many similar books did not find too varied insights though.
August 18, 2021
No BS, cuts straight to the point.
August 25, 2021
i learned more it helpful to
grow my career
grow my career
January 4, 2022
Awesome book!
January 9, 2022
Precise, to-the point actionable items; a must read for anyone working in the corporate world.
May 10, 2022
Easy to Understand
And very basic attributes which needs to be developed
And very basic attributes which needs to be developed
January 24, 2023
A must read for every person entering the corporate world. It's also a refreshing read for tenured!
February 25, 2023
Simple to follow, yet effective.
December 10, 2023
Great book with simple and to the point chapters
May 26, 2024
Excellent read for every working professional
September 26, 2025
Impactful. Inspired me to join an internship program when I was 30.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews