Basic Black

The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)

By: Cathie Black

Narrated by: Bernadette Dunne

Length: 8 hrs and 14 mins

Publisher's summary

Cathie Black is the wise, funny mentor that every woman dreams of having. She was a pioneer in advertising sales at a time when women didn’t sell; served as president and publisher of the fledgling USA Today; and, in her current position as the president of Hearst Magazines, persuaded Oprah to launch a magazine. In 2006 she was named one of Fortune’s “50 Most Powerful Women in American Business” for the seventh consecutive year. Now, in the exuberant, down-to-earth voice that is her trademark, Cathie explains how she achieved “the 360 degree life” - a blend of professional accomplishment and personal contentment - and how any woman can seize opportunity in the workplace.

No matter where you are in your career, Basic Black offers invaluable lessons that will help you land the job, promotion, or project you’re vying for. Throughout the audiobook, Cathie offers fascinating glimpses of media and business personalities, but at the core of it are her candid, personal stories. Basic Black provides a close-up look at the keen judgment, perseverance, and optimism that have propelled Cathie Black to the top of her game, along with the kind of straight-up practical advice you get in a one-on-one session with a career coach.

You’ll find out how to handle job interviews, which rules to break, and why you should make your life a grudge-free zone. Equally important, you’ll be inspired to pursue your passions and achieve your very best.

©2007 Cathie Black (P)2007 Books on Tape

Critic reviews

"The life lessons in these pages are smart, true, and reassuring, no matter where you are in your career." (Suze Orman)

“Basic Black does a great job of telling the story of how Cathie deftly navigated the challenges of the workplace and the media business, while also trying to balance the demands of a busy life. Her practical tips on handling typical workplace situations make this an important read for any woman who wants to become a better colleague, a better leader...and a better person.” (Meg Whitman, President & CEO, eBay Inc.)

"As every woman needs basic black in her wardrobe, she also needs Basic Black on her bookshelf. This is the perfect handbook on getting ahead while staying true to yourself." (Donna Karan)

Stuff you either forgot or didn't know...

Never too late to read this book and for those new to the working world, this is stuff you need to know.

A New Favorite

This book provides brilliant guidance for young business women. Ms. Black's advice rings true for corporate ladder climbers and entry-level assistants alike.

Great Book

This is a great book for any young person trying to get ahead in life. Well done.

Smart and Honest Advice

Smart and honest advice that's useful for all of us in the business world and everyday life. Delivered with a refreshing mixture of wit and candour. You will find some of the experiences deja vu and will undoubtedly finish the book learning something seemingly obvious that you didn't know before.

Good read

I enjoyed listening to this book. Lot of substance and good advice regarding surviving and thriving in todays corporate enviornment.

Easy listen

Very applicable and enjoyable listen