Beans: Four Principles for Running a Business in Good Times or Bad: A Business Fable Taken from Real Life

Yerkes, a consultant and author (Fun Work) and Decker, a former Amazon.com executive, call this little book a""business fable."" Drawing on the true story of a tiny Seattle coffee bar (think Cheers without the beer and the endless banter) that managed to flourish in the shadow of the giant chains, the authors attempt to distill universal truths that""cover all the essential ingredients for success"": be passionate about what you do; surround yourself with good people and treat them well; view both customers and employees as friends; and maintain a consistent, quality product. Labeled the""Four P's"" (passion, people, personal and product), these simple rules apply to everyone, owners and employees alike. The authors also stress the importance of intention in striving for and achieving success: whatever your goal, you have succeeded""when your results match your intentions."" Reminiscent of a convention skit (each chapter is divided into""scenes"" and is largely dialogue), this is a quick, easy read with solid business--and life--messages. The book also contains discussion questions and exercises, as well as factoids about coffee.