Rookie Smarts: Why Learning Beats Knowing in the New Game of Work

Given the author’s experience—Wiseman (Multipliers) helped build Oracle’s corporate university and is the president of a Silicon Valley–based research and development firm—it’s no shock that she offers an exceptional guide to staying vital in the changing marketplace. Wiseman targets mid-level professionals who want to revitalize their careers, as well as company leaders who want to invigorate their workforce. Her premise is simple: in a culture “obsessed with youth,” the key to success comes from “thinking young.” Wiseman explains why a rookie or “newcomer” approach will often be more effective than a tried-and-true strategy. For example, while the experienced manager will “collaborate alone,” a rookie rounds up a “network of experts.” A rookie who lacks “situational confidence” will pay more attention to negative feedback and work harder than an experienced counterpart. Each chapter concludes with a helpful summary that compares rookie and veteran behavior. Throughout, Wiseman cites a wide array of successful rookies and “perpetual rookies,” from the founder of Spanx (an example of “relentless resourcefulness”) to basketball great Magic Johnson, to photographer Annie Leibovitz, to business consultant Peter Drucker. Useful “discussion fire starters” are peppered throughout and gathered in an appendix for quick reference. For readers who are struggling to catch up with changing business needs, this book is a must read. Agent: Shannon Marvin, Dupree Miller & Associates. (Oct.)