Clout, or influence, according to Graves and Addington (co-authors of Behind the Bottom Line: Powering Business Life with Spiritual Wisdom
and cofounders of the popular journal Life@Work), is "a person's ability to shape people and mold outcomes." It is a powerful force in society, but one often used primarily for personal ends. Graves and Addington are business consultants, teachers and mentors whose goal is to help people negotiate the intersection between the world of business and the wisdom of the Bible. In this book they offer practical, engaging advice on how to gather, expand and wield influence for the good. They weave together personal anecdotes, quotes and themes from contemporary pundits, ancient wisdom about influence (a handful of fine chapters on Aristotle) and commonsense observations. Sometimes these are buttressed with biblical proverbs or examples (e.g., "Jesus was less concerned with enforcement of rules and regulations than He was about an individual's heart"). It's easy to read, and the bullet points that conclude each chapter make it easy to review and apply. The authors' familiarity with the evangelical subculture—and their direct address to those who feel at home in it—might put off those who are hostile to faith-informed truth. However, almost anyone else will find this a valuable and influential resource. (May)
