The Women's Power Handbook

by Joan and Rayner Moira Kirner

Book by Kirner, Joan and Rayner, Moira

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1999

Reviews

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is full of useful information for women wanting to make a difference in the world, whether in politics or elsewhere. It is very much a product of its time (written in the late 90s), with some advice quaint or laughable now, especially the parts about the “telephone tree”, ensuring you have one volunteer who can use a computer, and that it’s not necessary for a premier to have a mobile phone.

Nonetheless, the skills and characteristics required to bring power and success haven’t changed much in 20 years: listen to people and figure out how to help them, stand your ground for things that you believe in, to get to the top you need to build a team... it’s not new but it’s also rare to see everything all in one book, rather than a “listicle” online or smaller booklets produced by NFPs. The section on running a campaign is also the only formal public information I’ve seen at a state level. The book even includes a list of tips for new MPs once they’re elected: ambitious indeed!

It’s aimed at women in the Labor Party but the advice holds true for most women. It’s also bittersweet to read now, following the passing of Joan Kirner. Her memory will live on in this book.

[Holstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expert advice about politics and power, with practical lists and anecdotes of Australian politics

[S'hi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful in so many different ways for women anywhere taking control of their lives and increasing their ability to influence those around them. As well as plenty of tips about how to set one’s internal direction, create plans and networks, and even be sure of different types and qualities of alliances, this book is peppered with examples from the experience of other women leaders in their fields beyond the extraordinary experience of the two authors. Joan Kirner became the first female Premier of Victoria in 1990. Moira Rayner was Equal Opportunity Commissioner for Victoria from 1990 to 1994. Both have many other achievements as well.
An added bonus is the chart of women’s achievements in the appendix, which they suggest you add to with your own knowledge and research.
Well worth a couple of afternoons to work through a few of the lists of questions to get yourself set on your own journey. Particularly relevant for me in assisting friends run for local government at the upcoming elections in October.

[карин Златковић · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful for women even if they're not considering entering formal politics. When you think about it: anywhere there are people, there's politics, from your local neighbourhood council to your kids school you'll be confronted with politics in your everyday life and this book shines some light on how to deal with it in an effective way.