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19th out of 85 books
—
94 voters
The Fred Factor: How passion in your work and life can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary
by
Mark Sanborn
Meet Fred.
In his powerful new book THE FRED FACTOR, motivational speaker Mark Sanborn recounts the true story of Fred, the mail carrier who passionately loves his job and who genuinely cares about the people he serves. Because of that, he is constantly going the extra mile handling the mail – and sometimes watching over the houses – of the people on his route, treating eve...more
In his powerful new book THE FRED FACTOR, motivational speaker Mark Sanborn recounts the true story of Fred, the mail carrier who passionately loves his job and who genuinely cares about the people he serves. Because of that, he is constantly going the extra mile handling the mail – and sometimes watching over the houses – of the people on his route, treating eve...more
Hardcover, 128 pages
Published
April 20th 2004
by Crown Business
(first published 2002)
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Let me get something off my chest.
Mark Sanborn is a nice guy and I like him. So, irrespective whatever I do state about the book, I doubt my loyalty towards Mark would change.
So now, let us begin the evaluation of ‘Fred Factor’.
Fred Factor is apparently a true story of a knock-your-sock-off-service postman who left such an indelible mark (on Mark), that it became a book and a message to the masses.
The gist of the whole book is simply this – Go the super extra mile not for self-benefit but for pu...more
Mark Sanborn is a nice guy and I like him. So, irrespective whatever I do state about the book, I doubt my loyalty towards Mark would change.
So now, let us begin the evaluation of ‘Fred Factor’.
Fred Factor is apparently a true story of a knock-your-sock-off-service postman who left such an indelible mark (on Mark), that it became a book and a message to the masses.
The gist of the whole book is simply this – Go the super extra mile not for self-benefit but for pu...more
This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
click here.
This is a very short book whose premise is simple; be considerate and be willing to offer a helping hand without expecting anything more than feeling good about the fact that you want to be helpful.
Rather than telling you what this book is, I can tell you what it is not: this book isn't an epic tale; it isn't Faulkner or Hemingway; it isn't the recipe for curing all the world's ills; it certainly isn't a prescription on how to become a hero.
It is simply a collection of stories about admirable...more
Rather than telling you what this book is, I can tell you what it is not: this book isn't an epic tale; it isn't Faulkner or Hemingway; it isn't the recipe for curing all the world's ills; it certainly isn't a prescription on how to become a hero.
It is simply a collection of stories about admirable...more
Sanborn's encounter with the original Fred - an unusual postman who went out of his way to deliver exceptional service to the customers on his route - provides the basis for this book, which describes (as the subtitle indicates) "how passion in your work and life can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary." And let's face it - who doesn't want to be considered a phenomenal human being?
After outlining the four "Fred principles" and providing other examples of real-life "Freds," Sanborn gives a...more
After outlining the four "Fred principles" and providing other examples of real-life "Freds," Sanborn gives a...more
Okay, here is my deal. I really like the idea of being inspired to do the best work possible. But the "Fred" Factor has turned into "I'm doing someone else's job" Factor. Sanborn tells stories about people who go above and beyond. Well, that's fine and good but, people take advantage of this. Let me explain. At one point, Sanborn was staying in a hotel and he spilled coffee on his only pair of pants (that he had to wear home the following day). He asked the hotel if they could wash them, if ther...more
Short and inspiring, the Fred Factor is a contrast to most succeed-in-business advice. Maybe that's because the goal isn't recognition or riches, but the deeper satisfaction of doing things right. The central idea of this book is that "what makes any act extraordinary is doing it with heart. What makes any life extraordinary is living it with love."
The book's title refers to Sanborn's mail carrier, Fred, who clearly exemplifies doing a job well and having "the commitment to treat a person with...more
The book's title refers to Sanborn's mail carrier, Fred, who clearly exemplifies doing a job well and having "the commitment to treat a person with...more
This book was recommended to me by someone I truly respect in the business world. The context was, "you are a FRED, you should read The Fred Factor." So, I grabbed a copy from my library and that same way that energy creates energy, I was super excited about the content of this book. It is not one of the fiction-story-cheesy books. Some really good tips and my favorite is the ending, but, WE WILL GET TO THAT! But first, quotes! The book has great quotes from other sources. *"All men matter. You...more
This book is like a stick of dynomite. It's small and packed full of power. It can be read very quickly which is good for a busy person with little time to read. I stopped reading several times to ponder how I might apply certain ideas to my every day life and just to make sure I did not gloss over anything important.
The concept of customer service, as described in this book, should be handled with care as it could explode on you. I write this because there is no mention of return on investment...more
The concept of customer service, as described in this book, should be handled with care as it could explode on you. I write this because there is no mention of return on investment...more
I highly recommend this short, motivational, management book. You can read this in an hour. It has lots of great lessons on how a passion for everything you do can transform your life and all the others you meet. Fred is the mail carrier for Mark Sanborn, a motivational speaker and management author. Fred provided such exceptional service for Mark that he inspired a book and a way of life.
Here are 4 principles from the book:
1. Everyone makes a difference
2. Success is built on relationships
3. You...more
Here are 4 principles from the book:
1. Everyone makes a difference
2. Success is built on relationships
3. You...more
I know I've been reading a lot of this kind of book lately, but I really wasn't too impressed with this one. It seemed like a really long way of saying, "Go above and beyond." Add in a little bit about loving what you do and that's pretty much the book.
The writing was repetitive and his examples always felt slightly off for what he was describing. Also, he spent a lot of time--not describing the passion you're supposed to have or ways to go above and beyond--but telling how you can do all these...more
The writing was repetitive and his examples always felt slightly off for what he was describing. Also, he spent a lot of time--not describing the passion you're supposed to have or ways to go above and beyond--but telling how you can do all these...more
I underappreciated this book until I ran back through it really quickly after finishing it and actually took notes of the high points.
On my first pass it seemed like vague, public-speaker-propaganda...and yes, on my second pass it still had those qualities, but it also presented some very important (if occasionally intuitive and obvious) ideas on how to live life..both at work and not. Vague is still a big part of his game, but it's hard to give examples that would be relevant to everybody's exp...more
On my first pass it seemed like vague, public-speaker-propaganda...and yes, on my second pass it still had those qualities, but it also presented some very important (if occasionally intuitive and obvious) ideas on how to live life..both at work and not. Vague is still a big part of his game, but it's hard to give examples that would be relevant to everybody's exp...more
Overall, this book was meh. Yes, people should go above and beyond because life is short, but the book was a little hoaky/preachy for me. The author mentioned a fair number of 'Fred moments' that he himself did, yet said in the book that 'Fred's' don't brag about the nice things they do. Some of the stories seemed to be people taking advantage of others like a woman who got to see a movie for free because she forgot her wallet and someone took pity on her that worked at the theater. The stories...more
The 'Fred Factor' isn't anything new. It is lessons that I have been taught or have learned all my life about how to treat people and doing the right thing not because someone it watching or will reward you for it, but because it is the right thing to do.
Sanborn talks about his mailman, Fred and how Fred went out of his way to make his job great. Serve those on his delivery route and show kindness and caring. Sanborn has taken that simple act, expounded on it and reminded his readers to act like...more
Sanborn talks about his mailman, Fred and how Fred went out of his way to make his job great. Serve those on his delivery route and show kindness and caring. Sanborn has taken that simple act, expounded on it and reminded his readers to act like...more
Apr 03, 2008
Jenn Moore
marked it as to-read
Do you have a copy I can borrow?
1 like · like · see review
view 2 comments
A nice, quick, inspiring book about those folks in life that just seem to care a bit more. One would get a bit more out of this book if it were given a bit more time to marinate in the mind and practice the ideas one at a time. I, however, jump ram-rodded through it like nothing... but it was still quite enjoyable and uplifting.
We should all seek to really go about life not because we have to, but rather because we want to make today the best day yet. Seek to change the world every single day. P...more
We should all seek to really go about life not because we have to, but rather because we want to make today the best day yet. Seek to change the world every single day. P...more
This book is a quick read and well worth the short amount of time needed to complete it. A simple idea is illustrated positively, that being passionate about making a good and positive impact on those around you in your life can enrich your own experiences. It is what I call a "corporate marketing" book, and can easily be used as a good tool for employees in companies that strive for excellence and to stand apart as the best, but I also feel that this book's message can reach beyond the work day...more
In The Fred Factor, Sanborn tells the true story about an ordinary man in an ordinary job providing an exceptional model of leadership by keeping service of others his priority. Sanborn uses Fred the mail carrier as an inspiring example of how all of us, regardless of our environment, can find opportunities to make a difference in the lives of those we serve by going the extra mile. In this text, Sanborn not only describes what a “Fred” is, but also illustrates to his readers how they too can be...more
A short, easy read, I was impressed by the story of Fred the postman going above and beyond his job duties to take care of his customers, not because anyone was making him, but because he had a genuine love for what he did and those he served. This book outlines principles everyone to do to increase their own personal satisfaction and "Fred Factor" in their lives. The subtitle, "How passion in your wok and life can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary" really sums it up nicely as well as the...more
This was a nice inspirational guide to making the most of your job, regardless of how high of a rank you hold in the workplace. It steps you through how to make a difference in other people's lives through the work and service you provide others. It's about going above and beyond for other's and in turn this will serve to motivate you and engrain a sense of passion and pride in what you do. While the stories included are short, they aren't so short that the message gets muddled. It's an easy rea...more
Aug 13, 2008
Dani Butler
rated it
2 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
people who like self-help/inspirational books
Recommended to Dani by:
Mark Sanborn
Mr. Sanborn spoke at one of my company's meetings. We all received 'You Don't Need to Have a Title to be a Leader' (One of Sanborn's other books). He did mention this book in his speech and I thought the story of Fred the mailman was interesting/inspiring. Sanborn has quick and easy reading style and give some wonderful examples of the Fred Factor or amazing customer service and the importance to apply this to everyday life in the work place and outside of it. But there's the thing I dislike abo...more
I was asked to read the FF for work; it was part of a strategy to integrate professional development into our staff meetings. I understand why it was chosen: the book is short, positive, and has bulleted points. If you’re going to ask your staff to read something in their off-time, it’s a good idea to keep the required reading to a minimum.
Overall, I think most of the ideas in this book are good. How can I disagree with a man asking me to consider the needs of others, bring an upbeat attitude an...more
Overall, I think most of the ideas in this book are good. How can I disagree with a man asking me to consider the needs of others, bring an upbeat attitude an...more
This was suggested by a supervisor, so I ventured out from my usual genre to read it. It was inspiring in that, the main thesis (repeated over and over and OVER) is to get the most out of your life/job by making every second count, ever task your best effort. That's a good idea, really. And a good reminder, as an employee to try my best at even the most menial aspect of my job.
On the other hand, it encourages you to be a patsy. The "Fred" for whom the book is named, is a U.S. Postal carrier. Gue...more
On the other hand, it encourages you to be a patsy. The "Fred" for whom the book is named, is a U.S. Postal carrier. Gue...more
Jul 28, 2007
Megan
rated it
4 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
anyone interested in making regular days a bit happier
The Fred Factor is a great, light read for those wanting to bring more meaning to their lives – business & personal. The book uses the premise that if mailman Fred can turn the mundane service of delivering mail into a relationship that shows how this postman actually cares for others & loves his job, why can’t we all do this? As an individual, your focus (according to the author) should be on:
• Being relationship driven, not customer driven
• Creating greater value for mankind, not reapi...more
• Being relationship driven, not customer driven
• Creating greater value for mankind, not reapi...more
I picked this up because the College of Education, where I work, has started nominating a "Fred" every week, in order to recognize those individuals who exhibit the characteristics that Sanborn writes about. Much of this is common sense, and it amazes me that businesses and companies have to be told that these things are good and should be encouraged. There's nothing ground-breaking here, and Sanborn's writing style is typical "motivational speaker" fare.
The book was okay--a gentle reminder to live mindfully every day and go above and beyond because it's the right way to live. All well and good but I kept waiting for the reasoning behind the theory. Basically the reasoning is what we've all been taught--The Golden Rule.
It was a light and easy read, a nice, gentle reminder that the way we behave each day determines our character. But I didn't really find an "ah ha" moment from it.
It was a light and easy read, a nice, gentle reminder that the way we behave each day determines our character. But I didn't really find an "ah ha" moment from it.
Short, simply worded exhortation to do the best you can no matter what job you have.
Overall, I preferred The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton.
Some tips from The Fred Factor:
* Compete against mediocrity, not necessarily against others
* You can continually reinvent yourself and your work
* Humans have a passion for significance
* Do one extraordinary thing each day, at home or at work, seven days a week
Overall, I preferred The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton.
Some tips from The Fred Factor:
* Compete against mediocrity, not necessarily against others
* You can continually reinvent yourself and your work
* Humans have a passion for significance
* Do one extraordinary thing each day, at home or at work, seven days a week
Can you be a good person? Can you help others at every opportunity each day? Why should you? The answers to all those questions and others are deftly illustrated and exemplified in this quick read.
What begins with a story of a mailman who goes to any length to be sure the people on his route are happy blossoms into a set of guidelines, uplifting stories, and examples on how YOU can become a "Fred".
A little book with a big impact...
What begins with a story of a mailman who goes to any length to be sure the people on his route are happy blossoms into a set of guidelines, uplifting stories, and examples on how YOU can become a "Fred".
A little book with a big impact...
I read this book for a conference I'm attending. I wasn't too impressed. The ideas that Sanborn presents are solid, but I feel a bit like if you aren't already a "Fred," you probably aren't going to be too motivated to become one. I also felt like Sanborn was a bit condescending. At one point he basically says "if a mail carrier can do a good job, think how much bigger of a difference you can make at your much more important job."
Really Dumb. The author wrote this book to hear himself speak. Unfortunately, he made money from it as well. He even quotes HIMSELF as an intro to the beginning of a chapter. If you want a good management book, in the 'really thin, hard cover, cheesey and inspirational in the business world' genre, read the 'one minute manager' or 'who moved my cheese'... those are both worth the 90 minutes it takes to read them
I had a male friend who was coincidentally a male carrier, same as Fred. He loved his job; he was always kind to his patrons, often going more than the extra mile. I asked him one day why he wasn't a missionary as he seemed to be filled with good will. He said, "Because my job is my missionary." He and Fred have much in common.
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Mark Sanborn is an international known author, motivational speaker, and the president of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., an idea studio for leadership development. He gives nearly one hundred presentations each year on leadership, team building, customer service, and mastering change. Mark and his family live near Denver, Colorado.
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