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    Who’s Got Your Back

    The Breakthrough Program to Build Deep, Trusting Relationships That Create Success –– and Won’t Let You Fail

    By Keith Ferrazzi

    Published 05/2009



    About the Author

    Keith Ferrazzi, CEO of Ferrazzi Greenlight, is a renowned thought leader, consultant, and bestselling author. His work focuses on accelerating the development of business relationships to drive sales, spark innovation, and create team cohesion. Ferrazzi has counseled the world's top enterprises and has been published in prominent publications like The Wall Street Journal and Harvard Business Review. His previous book, "Never Eat Alone," is also a national bestseller. Ferrazzi's dedication to improving healthcare and education nationwide showcases his commitment to corporate citizenship and impactful leadership.

    Main Idea

    The core premise of "Who's Got Your Back" is that success is not achieved alone. Ferrazzi emphasizes the importance of building deep, trusting relationships, which he terms "lifeline relationships," to offer encouragement, feedback, and mutual support. These relationships are vital for reaching one's full potential, whether in professional or personal endeavors.

    • Lifeline Relationships
    • Four Mind-Sets
    • Building Your Dream Team
    • Accountability

    Table of Contents

    1. Introduction
    2. Why Do We Need Lifelines?
    3. The Four Mind-Sets
    4. Building Your Dream Team
    5. Maintaining Accountability
    6. Making It Your Life
    7. Conclusion

    Introduction

    Ferrazzi opens the book by challenging the myth of the lone professional "superman." He asserts that true success in any field requires a trusted team of advisors who can offer guidance and hold one accountable. By creating an inner circle of lifeline relationships, individuals can achieve their dreams and navigate the complexities of life more effectively.

    Why Do We Need Lifelines?

    Ferrazzi argues that lifeline relationships are essential because they provide the perspective, advice, and support necessary to overcome personal and professional challenges. He highlights that "each one of us is a salesperson of ourselves and our opinions, if not of business products and services." This underscores the importance of having a trusted team to offer feedback and keep us grounded.

    "Behind every great leader, at the base of every great tale of success, you will find an indispensable circle of trusted advisors, mentors, and colleagues." - Keith Ferrazzi

    lifeline relationships are abundant in various fields. Ph.D. candidates have advisor teams, top executives have boards, and world-class athletes have fitness coaches. These relationships are not just beneficial but crucial for achieving success.

    The Four Mind-Sets

    Ferrazzi identifies four core mind-sets that form the foundation for creating lifeline relationships: Generosity, Vulnerability, Candor, and Accountability. These mind-sets can be learned and practiced to build deeper, more trusting connections.

    Generosity

    Generosity is the promise to help others succeed by whatever means you can muster. Ferrazzi draws inspiration from Viktor Frankl, a Nazi prison camp survivor who shared his meager daily ration of bread with others. Frankl's acts of generosity exemplify the profound impact of giving selflessly.

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