The Curriculum: Everything You Need to Know to Be a Master of Business Arts

Fortune columnist Bing (Executricks) offers a hilarious curriculum for educating would-be businesspeople on the ins and outs of the workplace. Dismissing the need for a higher degree from a reputable academic institution, Bing observes that "a traditional MBA does not provide you with a seminar on how to use an expense account as a strategic instrument, or how to bullshit your way through a difficult situation." To support his assertion, he cites numerous moguls who did not earn MBA's (Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey) as well as various corporate crooks who did (Ron Perelman). The no-holds-barred approach is often funny%E2%80%94as exemplified in a chapter on "Not Appearing Stupid"%E2%80%94and profane, particularly in the section on "Elements of Business Personality" which addresses how to manage substance abuse. Despite his irreverent tone, Bing covers practical topics not found in master's programs (including "Managing the Boss") while touching on valid business subjects like Marketing, Sales, and Strategic Thinking. With its cheeky wit, this book is sure to be a hit among students and young businesspeople. Color illus. (Apr.)