Powerful Steps - Why Some Get to the Top of the Ladder and Why Most Don't

Author Brian J. Bieler asks the question: "What does it take to create success? In his new book POWERFUL STEPS, Bieler demonstrates that what stands between most people and career accomplishment is the surprising fact that they overlook or take for granted a few relatively common skills. "People rarely move ahead and get promoted because of job skills alone." Far more important, says Bieler, are fundamental people skills that almost anyone can develop. "You create success by becoming a good communicator, developing good relationships, thinking strategically and being focused." Using real life experiences, Bieler leads the reader to the inescapable conclusion: The number one strategy in developing careers is improving people skills. The successful are able to influence others and sell ideas. A high IQ and education may get you the job but are not a guarantee of success. It's all about how you think and act. Creativity and innovation drive careers and business. You must take risks because that's where the rewards are. "Ultimately," says Bieler, "the most powerful secret is how to think like an entrepreneur and create opportunities." Powerful Steps is written in a clear easy-to-read style with real-life stories and lessons on the critical skills. Readers will discover: How to think, not what to think How to become a better communicator Why focus and commitment are critical Why most people and managers are confused on how to motivate others Secret strategies: how to negotiate like a pro Why relationships are even more important in a competitive workplace What great leaders do differently and what they focus on How to think and plan strategically using skills of winners and warriors What happens when you don't hold back and take action

Brian J. Bieler was President of Viacom Radio Group (WLTW NY, WMZQ Washington, WLAK Chicago, WRVR Memphis, KIKK Houston) and began a career in sales and marketing at Women’s Wear Daily and Mademoiselle Magazine in New York City. He learned secrets how to manage and turn-around radio stations from a small but highly successful broadcasting group, Sudbrink Broadcasting, specializing in buying and selling underperforming companies from Miami to Honolulu. Brian achieved one of the most enviable track records in the industry. He was Vice President and General Manager of WLIF Baltimore, WORJ (ZETA7) Orlando, KPOI (98Rock) Honolulu, WMZQ Washington DC, KOOL Phoenix, KTXQ Dallas, KFBK, KGBY, KHLY, KSTE Sacramento, and General Sales Manger WLYF Miami.

"Working in different markets gives you a unique perspective. You learn that peoples’ wants and needs are the same everywhere. However, different environments will change people’s behavior and outlook. I saw the best performance when people were in an innovative and creative work environment. Having fun is smart business.

Top performers don’t like the concept of being managed and think of themselves as professional volunteers. Hiring and learning how to manage talented performers is a challenge but leads to extraordinary results and rewards. The secret is mastering people and interpersonal skills to help others become successful. Old school hierarchal management won’t work with the new generation of workers. It takes an entrepreneurial approach to keep the best people and stay ahead of competition."

Brian learned through experience and the success of others. Winners follow a similar pattern of thinking, "When you see how the successful do it, you realize you can do it. The single best thing you can do to ramp up your career is master the basic skills of communication. The higher you move up the ladder, the more important these skills become."

Brian is married with three children and resides in Phoenix, Arizona.