So Smart But... How Intelligent People Lose Credibility - and How They Can Get it Back

This fascinating book demonstrates that to be a good communicator and therefore an effective manager, a person must have five qualities in order to be viewed as totally credible–competence, character, composure, sociability, and extroversion. While some executives seem to possess all these qualities and be born with savvy communication skills, Weiner shows how anyone can find ways to make measurable improvements in how they present themselves that will enhance their credibility.

Reviews

"Credibility is the foundation of leadership, and Allen Weiner has now offered leaders the tools for building a foundation that is strong and secure. Full of examples, assessments, research, and practical tips, So Smart But . . . is required reading for all leaders who want to protect and extend the most valuable personal asset they have."
—James Kouzes, coauthor of the best-selling books The Leadership Challenge and Credibility: How Leaders Gain and Lose It, Why People Demand It

"Try this: Open this book three times at random and read one page. I’ll bet you will encounter a communication nugget or an insight on increasing credibility that applies directly to you. Allen Weiner is one of those rare individuals capable of packaging deep communication principles in easy-to-implement tips and ideas. This book is not a hard-to-digest meal, but rather a succession of tasty communication hors d’oeuvres. Take a bite and enjoy!"
—Aart de Geus, CEO and chairman of the board, Synopsys

"I believe credibility is the key ingredient for success in one’s personal, professional, and social life. Projecting yourself, communicating your message, and relating to others all center on credibility, and the results show in how you are received, whether people understood your message and if they believed you. Allen is a master of putting things in the proper prescription to build a credible, successful communicator. This book is a crisp collection of topics that he worked with me on over a period of three years. I would recommend it to be included as part of the curriculum at business schools."
—Anand Nallathambi, president, First Advantage Corporation

"The challenge that Human Resources professionals face is to foster an environment of goodwill in the workplace. Allen Weiner's book, most especially the chapter with Lloyd Loomis, validates that harassment and discrimination are alive and well; communication is not just the words one speaks, but the actions that accompany them."
—Jane D. Jones, vice president, Human Resources, Service Corporation International

"Allen Weiner understands those unsuccessful executives who are “so smart but” can’t help themselves from self-destructing; he knows what makes them tick and offers practical advice on how to make sure you don’t become one. He speaks from experience. A worthwhile read!"
—Jeffrey S. Klein, chairman, 101communications