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I have just finished reading one of my new favourite books: Delivering Happiness by Tony Hseih. It is an awesome read with powerful insights to how Zappos is managed and why they are so successful.

There are so many insights but on pages 64 through to 67, Tony shares similarities between poker and business.

I know what what you are thinking, as I was thinking the same thing . . . “Poker and business are you serious?”

Well he was and it was a stand out for me, so I want to share 6 of his similarities that impacted me:

Evaluating Market Opportunities

• It’s OK to switch tables if you discover it’s too hard to win at your table.

Marketing and Branding

• Act weak when strong; act strong when weak. Know when to bluff.

Financials

• Remember thats it’s a long term game. You will win or lose individual hands or sessions, but when it happens in the long term matters.

Strategy

• Stick to your principles and don’t cheat. Cheaters never win in the long run.

Continual Learning

• Educate yourself. read books and learn from others who have done it before. So don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

Culture

• Have fun. The game of poker is more enjoyable when you’re trying to more than just make money. So be nice and make friends; share what you learn; look for new opportunities; and respect youir competitors.

Delivering Happiness is an outstanding read and I highly recommend anyone in business should have a read. You will learn something – I guarantee it!

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• Zappos’ New Ads Let Readers “Dress” Nude Models (businessinsider.com)
• The three pillars of customer-centricity (thecustomerblog.co.uk)
• Delivering Happiness (cuhacipeterson.wordpress.com)
• 5 business books top my summer reading list (eamcc.wordpress.com)
• Zappos Core Values (keepthepeakunique.com)
• The three pillars of customer-centricity (customerthink.com)
• Building Loyalty the Hsieh Way (customerthink.com)
• Delivering Happiness Zappos (jeanneloh.wordpress.com)
• Speaker Series: Happiness Delivered by Tony Hsieh (linkedin.com)