Everyone Communicates, Few Connect

I was genuinely pleased with Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, the newest book by John C. Maxwell, the prolific author, speaker, and leadership expert.

Having read many of Maxwell's books, I sometimes find his writing approach to be highly formulaic, but this book, while it still clearly shows his penchant for outlining and organizing and alliteration, was surprising and rewarding. It's not particularly profound, but then Maxwell never shoots for profundity. He readily admits that his speaking and writing smack of practicality, and perhaps none more than this. The issue for any leader or speaker who picks up this book should not be, "Is this totally new information?" but rather, "Am I doing it?" And the book is filled with practical perspectives and tips for anyone who wants to improve as a leader, teacher, or speaker.

The book is organized into two parts, Connecting Principles and Connecting Practices. Each chapter ends with a section called, "Connecting With People at All Levels," which breaks down the chapter's content into bullet points to apply to one-on-one, in a group, or with an audience. I didn't find those sections particularly helpful, but I'm confident that many readers will.

Most importantly, as someone who speaks scores of times every year, to thousands of people, I picked up pointers I expect will improve my effectiveness, immediately...and permanently.

This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson Publishers.