Who Helped

Since acknowledgements are the first thing I read in other people’s books, perhaps it’s understandable that I started writing this section before finishing the rest.

Three people were the most involved in the project before Simon & Schuster arrived. Daniel Greenberg, agent extraordinaire, proved my theory that in choosing between a big name and a rising star, go for someone with ambition and energy. I am happy I did. Ron Kraft and Tom Ehrenfeld, who worked in different phases as editors on this project, were unstinting in their help and morale-boosting.

Doris Cooper, my editor at Fireside/Simon & Schuster, is a tremendous talent who convinced me that her vision for this book was better than my original attempt.  She is funny, smart, and driven—what a surprise that we clicked immediately, and kept clicking through many revisions. I am especially happy that Fireside is headed by a woman—and, in Trish Todd, one whom I admire. Marcia Burch and Trina Rice were always helpful on public relations.

My greatest business success came with more help than one has a right to expect from talented friends. The same was true in writing this book. I am in awe of the generosity of my amazing circle.

Friends who know much more than I do about writing read the manuscript and offered terrific, usually diplomatic, feedback: Richard Snow, Adam Moss, David Sheff, Lori Schryer , Liz Perle.

Sara Nelson did all that and more: educating me on book publishing, opening doors with agents and publishers, and in general (and as usual) being a wonderful friend.  

Friends who lived the story with me gave great reality checks and not-always-gentle feedback: Carol Smith, Jan Brandt, Candy Meyers, Peggy Hamilton, David Markus, Eileen Rivkin, Jeffrey Klein.

Dianne Snedaker, my comrade in re-entry into dating at mid-life, was my most conscientious (and helpful) reader. Adair Lara is an amazing teacher–if you don’t get a chance to take a writing course with her, as I did, do the next best thing and read one of her books. I enjoyed encouragement, ideas and/or feedback from Stewart Alsop, Michael Castleman, Melissa Houtte, Art Kern, Bill Marken, Susan Maruyama, Brianne Miller, Joe Nocera, Bob Nylen, Bruce Raskin, Susan Sachs, Amy Schoening, and Lorraine Shanley.

The men and women of Young Presidents’ Organization taught me so many of the lessons contained in this book–take it from someone who’d never joined anything before: If you qualify for membership, YPO is a sure way to be a better leader. Many members helped and some are quoted in the book: especial thanks to my dear friends David Martin, Tony Brenner, Mary Ann Byrnes, and Nancy O’Neill.

I had it easy as a working mother, thanks to the best parenting decision Steve Castleman and I made: bringing Siobhan McGuinness into our lives. I will always be grateful for the six years I spent working without worrying for a minute about my children’s well-being.

Speaking of mothers, mine was a careful, if wincing, reader of the manuscript.  She bears no responsibility for my romantic adventures, or for the title of this book, which she hated. However, if I can write, the credit goes to Harriet Wolaner Thaul.

Finally, there is a long list of people who taught me that the workplace is a great source of love, laughter or learning–sometimes all three. You know who you are, and I am grateful to know all of you.

Comments

[Rick Camire]

Dear Robin,
Great reviews and a great title. I think this book will benefit all genders who find themselves in the Boardroom and work place; From learning how to survie to understanding the real issues confronting women today.
I look forward to reading your book.

Sincerely

Rick Camire