false 4 1 false false Thu Jun 04 00:00:00 -0700 2009 Tue May 26 19:55:30 -0700 2009 Sat Jun 06 19:30:15 -0700 2009 1
Since I'm thinking about starting my own business, this book was helpful to me because it identified some important ideals to strive for. It made me think about my message, how I want to brand myself, and what inconsistencies I need to solve.

On page 58, the author writes, "Great leaders look for ways to maximize the felt sense that their business generates." This made me think about the feelings I want to inspire in people when they meet me and when I have the opportunity to serve them.

I stopped to reflect on my business goals and intended practices pretty often while reading this book. It devotes a chapter to each of Starbucks' five principles with thinking points at the end of each chapter that anyone can apply to their own business. I also liked the call-out boxes that help readers relate Starbucks' practices to their own situations.

Starbucks has indeed made a commitment to providing for its employees, the community, and the environment. If more businesses (large and small) operated with the integrity described in this book, the world would be a much better place.

The author appeared semi-unbiased when he talked of Starbucks' success stories, and he did not hesitate to address some of the bad press the company has received over the years. He discussed China's resistance to the opening of Starbucks stores in their country, saying the overall first impression was a prime example of "US imperialism" (pages 121-123). Then he goes on to discuss how Starbucks solved the bad image by getting involved in the communities they served and tailoring the Starbucks experience to the Chinese culture.

At times, however, it goes to far with its "Starbucks saved the day!" anecdotes. It is a testament to how much effort the company puts into employee training though. I don't think I've ever had a rude barista at Starbucks. Actually, I haven't had any problems with baristas in the other coffeeshops I visit either.

The book talks about how Starbucks raises the bar for the other businesses in the area when it sets up shop in a new place. I am sure there are examples to the contrary, but I have to take the book's word on it since I haven't been anywhere that Starbucks is considered "new" in a really long time!

I think this book has some value for people going into business for themselves or those at the management level at a company where they have some decision-making power. Otherwise, it's just a feel-good read about people making positive changes in the world (which is fine if you're into that... haha).]]>