Author: Susan RoAne

ISBN 0-471-61280-4

The following review was contributed by: Roger E. Herman & click to view Roger E. Herman's Reviews 

 I am a self-confessed fan of Susan RoAne and her work. Recognized internationally as “the networking maven,” she knows her specialty well and communicates it effectively. And that won’t be my last understatement!

Essentially, RoAne’s message is that you create your own luck by reaching out to others, by building relationships, and by practicing proven techniques of opening the doors of opportunity before you hear the knock. The book is built around eight traits of success:

Talk to strangers, make small talk, drop names, eavesdrop and listen, ask for and offer help, stray from your chosen path, exit graciously without burning bridges, and say “yes” when you want to say “no.”

As you move smoothly through the pages of this book (it’s written to be read easily), you will enjoy focused illustrations that illuminate the vital traits. RoAne shares a wealth of meaningful stories that bring her messages to life, then explains again the process to follow to achieve your desired results. You can tell this book was written by a former teacher; the emphasis on learning shines through. Each teaching is an inspiration; readers will find themselves motivated to put their new knowledge to work. Summaries and action plan starters at the end of each chapter encourage application of the learnings. For some, the experience may be, in at least a small way, life-changing.

In the first paragraph of this review, I used the word “maven.” This is a Yiddish word meaning “an expert, a knowledgeable person.” That definition is one of many that are included in a glossary at the end of this book. RoAne uses several Yiddish terms in her writing, so the reader gains an understanding of this language. There’s even a thorough index to add value to this volume.

“How to Create Your Own Luck” is highly recommended for everyone who wants to smooth their path through life. It will be particularly valuable for people in business (not just sales), entrepreneurs, students entering the world of work, prospective retirees…and the list goes on. Your biggest challenge will come when you finish reading the book: you’ll have to decide if you want to covet it, or pass it along to someone else.