Daniel Pink's
To Sell is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others is a fascinating look into the "art" of
moving people. Using a mix of social science, survey research, and rich stories, the book shows that white-collar workers now spend an enormous portion of their time persuading, influencing, and moving others. Then it reveals the personal qualities and specific skills necessary for doing it better. What I found most profound about this is the keys to moving people, which really isn't just "sales" but more of thoughtful communication: such as rhyming; questioning; one-word pitch; and of course, the "
Pixar Pitch." What Pink argues is that in our knowledge-based, information economy - jobs have become more elastic and entrepreneurial. As a result, anyone from doctors to accountants to teachers need to "sell" and convince more than ever. (Librarians? Information professionals? A lightbulb moment for me here.) This is a highly engaging and energizing read and I highly recommend you flip through the pages and take a look for yourself In our knowledge economy, one that relies on connecting more than ever whether it be in-person or online, the ability to clearly and buoyantly communicate is critical.
