Review: The Martha Rules

The Martha Rules:

10 Essentials For Achieving Success As You Start, Build, Or Manage A Business

Publisher: Rodale International Ltd (April 7, 2006)

An exceptionally "readable" book--logical, organized, balanced presentation. Intelligent, appropriate for readers across the spectrum of experience. Stewart's "rules" format--a nod to current publishing trends--provide an accessible source of guidelines, resources, and suggestions for readers interested in applying her business model to new or current endeavors.
Excellent reading! Stewart provides glimpses into her family and career history--highlighting values instilled, lessons learned. Throughout this framework of experiences, Stewart weaves a now familiar tale with new insight and perspective.

Stewart's self-transformation from caterer to entertainment expert characterizes the development of her business and approach to consumers: to educate and be educated. Learning, teaching, interdependence between the producer and the customer combine to create an emphasis on quality and service--an attitude of mutual respect. (David Ogilvy states "The consumer is not a moron; she is your wife.") Stewart identifies herself and her company as the consumer--a simple but far from simplistic approach to content, presentation, and direction--we love Martha--we like who we are when we are "with" her--what we may become.

Stewart brings a remarkable and apparently unflagging optimism to her work--her enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring...She effectively communicates core values--their particular relevance during personal and professional decisions. Teacher and student, Stewart discusses her highly-publicized legal affairs in only the most general terms--focusing on appreciation for expressions of support from her family, friends, and fans.

Whatever your position, (or opposition) to the phenomena that is Martha--it is impossible to deny the perseverance, resilience, empathy, and empowerment that characterizes Stewart.
She refers to Thomas Edison early in her book--focus on serving the needs of the customer, from the customer's perspective. Edison also said "who you are will show in what you do"--and in Stewart's case, all indications are a future characterized by innovation and inspiration---excellent as always, Martha! It's a very, very good thing! :o)