The Personal MBA

October 4, 2010
Kaufman, a former middle manager at Proctor & Gamble and founder of personalmba.com, argues that those interested in business would be better served by skipping the M.B.A. and focusing on the critically important concepts that really make or break a business. According to the author, much of what is taught in business schools is outdated; you're better off saving the expense and finding other ways to learn about these core principles—which Kaufman synthesizes—in such areas as value creation, marketing, sales, and finance. He also explores the psychological side of business and examines how consumers take in information, make decisions, and decide what to do or not to do. Acknowledging the panoramic overview his approach necessitates, he includes a fairly lengthy list of sources to seek out if more information is needed. While Kaufman's rallying call will not eradicate the need or desire for M.B.A. degrees, he does provide a surprisingly solid alternative full of information that even those already in the workplace will respond to.

December 1, 2010

The conceit of this book is that the highly condensed information within will supplant a formal MBA program. To the contrary, it is best suited as a primer for those considering a business degree. With 226 single-page entries covering everything from profit margin to counterparty risk, this book reads like a wordy page-a-day calendar. A reader who stays engaged through the end would not be ready for the executive suite but would probably find business school an appealing prospect. That's not to imply the text is dry. Kaufman, who bills himself as an independent business educator, provides explanations that are clear, concise, and very readable. He also uses easily relatable, everyday examples to illustrate the various principles discussed. The span of topics is too broad for a layperson, but no individual subject is delved into deeply enough for a practitioner. VERDICT This is perfect for those pondering whether the world of business is for them. It is a great introduction for students picking a major or career-changers weighing their options. Recommended for high school, undergrad, and public library collections.--Robert Perret, Univ. of Idaho, Moscow

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