Preston Bailey

As far as self help books go this one is pretty good. The author is a successful owner of his own creative service business, and sometimes it's difficult to buy into his optimism when you consider how many people try and fail to strike out on similar ventures, but his advice is down to earth and uncompromising, and the passion he has for the work he's doing comes through clearly. There are a number of practical tidbits in his advice, but the real value comes from the mentality that he is trying to cultivate in his answers.

The style is conversational, and the format is set up in the form of a question and answer session divided by stages of business, from starting out to giving back once you've made it. As I read it felt like I had a mentor sitting next to me, giving me his hard earned advice with no frills attached. I'm not going into the creative service business myself, but I was able to take something of value out of this book anyway. I'd call that a success.… (més)

Given the preponderance of big box stores it's nice to focus on the businesses that work for something other than the Bottom Line.

I took a baking class recently. It was taught by a fifth generation owner. At one point the teacher/family business owner commented that she has been on the lookout for other businesses that stay true to quality over quantity, integrity over profit, pride over shortcuts. She's trying to learn what she can, improving her own business and helping others improve theirs.

"Dear Preston" follows the same path, and is a wonderful reference for those of us who long for the days when you walked into a store and were greeted by name. Granted, some businesses still work that way, but they struggle against businesses that cut prices to gain quantity.

I received this book through Early Reviewers. It's an inspiring book, and the word "Friendly" in the title says it all. Thank you, Preston, for remembering the people aspect of business.… (més)