Mob Rules: What the Mafia Can Teach the Legitimate Businessman

Sopranos fans, take heart: it turns out the mob is not only full of ethical heavyweights but an excellent example for business wisdom seekers. Ferrante (Unlocked) spent years in the Gambino crime family, finally choosing to go straight while in prison. He shares his wisdom with cubicle jockeys and nervous managers everywhere%E2%80%94and reveals that aboveboard businesses are far more nefarious than the organized-crime variety. Ferrante argues that no self-respecting loan shark would offer the terms of your average credit card company, and even the Mafia doesn't employ the tactics of a collection agency. Through stories of his own compatriots and famous mobsters, Ferrante shares cogent business advice for employees, middle managers, and bosses: make them an offer they can't refuse (offer to work on commission), harness the power of networking, make your own luck, motivate your people, never embarrass someone in public, reward loyalty. Though Ferrante paints a somewhat unbelievably sunny picture of organized crime, if readers can get past the gimmick, they'll find a colorful and surprisingly practical business primer. (June)