George Thompson (1)

The lessons and tools spelled out in this book are certainly helpful as I’ve started to implement some immediately and will continue to adopt others in my work and personal life. While I appreciated some of the testimonials and personal anecdotes as ways of demonstrating the tools in real, relatable scenarios, too much of the book seemed like he was trying to convince the reader - someone who has already picked up and began reading this book - why you need to read this book. In the end, I believe the usefulness of this book outweigh the tediousness of some chapters.… (more)

Short, excellent book which gives lots of anecdotes on how communication patterns can get you out of (and in, if you are not careful) sticky situations. Most of the anecdotes are from the author's policing background and interpersonal relationships, but they really help to get across the points.
He also has mnemonics, such as PAVPO (perspective, audience, voice, purpose, organization) to keep in mind when interacting with people.
The most important takeaways from the book is to have EMPATHY and be respectful.
Also ask don't command, explain policies and rules, present options, appeal, and then act.
Excellent book, should probably be read every once in a while to remind one of the stories in order to seamlessly attempt verbal judo in one's own life.… (more)

This book is about the fine art of using your words to persuade others to comply to your wishes in a professional setting though the author mentions that his tips can be used by anyone in any setting. It is definitively intended for law enforcement personnel so the persuasion part is aimed at getting others to do what you want with as little hassle as possible. The ethics of this in other settings may vary. The author does do a few things that to me are questionable however.
He does equate ethics solely with professionalism and focuses alot on empathy in a wholly utilitarian light. It's simply another tool to use in your manipulation of another person. This callousness does permeate the book as does its repetitiveness. This book didn't really need to be just over 200 pages.
Overall I'm glad I read it but I'm really not sure if I'd ever recommend this to anybody. I do have to admit he does have some good points but he also kept referring to samurai and kung fu masters to the point of cheesiness.… (more)