Beyond Bullsh*t reveals the dynamics of bullsh*t and why it has become the corporate communication etiquette of choice. The book also shows how ones personal well-being and business success depend on learning how, with whom, and under what circumstances to tell it straight.

Straight-talk at work! Grumblings in offices everywhere suggest that there is not much that we crave more, but don't get often enough. Beyond Bullsh*t reveals the dynamics of bullsh*t and why it has become the corporate etiquette of choice. It also explains how telling it straight contributes to personal well-being and business success.

After decades of research and consulting, Samuel A. Culbert is convinced that straight-talk at work is possible. But it requires more than luck and willing people. Straight-talk is the product of thoughtful, caring relationships built upon trust and a commitment to look out for one another's success. Culbert describes this brand of truthfulness as "a caring, other-sensitive, candor-on-demand, loyalty-producing, intimacy-escalating, give-and-take relationship, leading to enhanced personal and organizational productivity." From an organizational perspective, there's no greater contribution to operational effectiveness and success than conversations in which people with conflicting viewpoints discuss their differences forthrightly.

Readers will find this book personal—which is unusual for a "business book"; they will think that many of the stories are about them. They will be engaged and delighted as the text demystifies the obstacles to getting beyond bullsh*t and guides them in developing straight-talk relationships at work. More at the author's website www.straighttalkatwork.com

"Culbert, a professor of management, points out that "telling the truth" can be just as one-sided and manipulative as the self-serving posturing he calls "bullsh*t." To send an honest message that actually reaches listeners, the teller requires a preestablished relationship of trust and a listener who is willing to improve. The teller needs to offer only the truth she sees and to frame the message according to the listener's perspectives and goals. If these conditions are not present to at least some degree, Culbert says, people are better off just posturing. Still, for those willing to make the effort, he adds that reciprocal straight talk can be immensely valuable for an organization and individuals' careers." —Harvard Business Review

"Great, enduring brands demand (and respond to) straight talk from their customers, employees and stakeholders. Sam Culberts book brings that message to life."—Howard Schultz, CEO, Starbucks

"Beyond Bullsh*t shows why the little moments in organizational life matter so much and how to make the most out of them. Culbert has written the wisest book that I've ever read about what it takes to build a humane and effective workplace. And, this little masterpiece is a joy to read because every page oozes with Culbert's own experience, straight talk, and charm."—Robert Sutton, Stanford University, author of The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One That Isn't

Samuel A. Culbert is Professor of Management at UCLA Anderson School of Management. Dr. Culbert's other books include Don't Kill The Bosses (2001). He is the recipient of the American Association of Publishers Best Management Book of the Year award and the Harvard Business Review McKinsey Award.

Imprint: Stanford Business Books
Distributor: Chicago Distribution Center
Publication Date: 04-01-2008
Pages: 168
Measurements: 9.00in X 6.00in