I think what I liked most about this book was the background and insight on Chick fil-a. There were some good nuggets of information about managing a team but overall it felt directed towards certain types of teams and not as easily applied to any business.

I first heard of Dee Ann Turner when I read her book "It's My Pleasure: The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture." While this book is out of print, I am grateful for BakerBooks picking it up. Whoever signed that contract should get a raise. If the quotes and recommendations on the back of the book, or the forward by Lencioni, don't sell it, let all the reviews clue you in. Buy this book now!

Here's what I like (why I think you need this book in your head, heart and on your shelf):
- Dee Ann brings her expertise (genuine expertise--not today's "I'm going to self-publish" type expertise) to the table and holds nothing back.
- Learn the basics needed for a remarkable culture
- Learn what you'll need in place to create that remarkable culture
- Learn how to enable others to build that culture with you
- Learn how to teach your team how to build that culture within themselves
- and see it poured out into the people you serve

This is not a "magic book." It is a genuine, loaded tool chest* with full instructions on how to use each tool. What good is handing someone a Dremel if they don't know how to use it? *(note the size difference between a tool chest and a tool box.)

Honestly, there are too many quotes to put in the review; just search #BetOnTalent and you'll come across many.

What did I not like? (This is strictly opinion and has nothing to do with the quality of information in the book.)

As an avid reader and writer, I could tell some of the places that were from the original book and what was added content. Honestly, I think it was just Dee Ann coming into her own and getting comfortable with the flow. (You know when you're nervous and just start talking when really you should just feel out the room a little first to get comfortable?) Some of the stories, in the beginning, could have been left out and the message of the other example(s) would have proven the point clear enough. That being said, the points she was trying to expound upon are still utterly true and on point.

Bet On Talent is a 5-star book that will reside both on my shelf (so I can give it away if need be) and marked up and highlighted on my Kindle. Happy Reading and best wishes for your team as you grow--because with this book on hand, you can't help but grow.

This book is a must read for anyone involved in talent development, engagement, or building culture in an organization. DeeAnn Turner chronicles her lessons learned from decades at Chick-fil-a as well as bringing in stories from outside that organization. She encourages leaders (anywhere in the organization) to model a values-based, servant-leader approach that identifies, develops, and empowers employees who will, in turn, find a way to go a step further than people expect to make a great customer experience. That great customer experience is more predictable, reliable, and valuable than viral social media campaigns in creating financial success.

I am thankful to NetGalley for a free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review.