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The Personal MBA: The Book

Master the Art of Business - by Josh Kaufman, founder of PersonalMBA.com

Pygmalion Effect

This is a preview of a concept contained in The Personal MBA by Josh Kaufman, a book that will help you master the fundamentals of business, hone your business instincts, and save a fortune in tuition. The Personal MBA distills the most powerful principles of business and delivers them quickly and concisely. Order your copy now…

What is the “Pygmalion Effect”?

“High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation.” — Charles Kettering, prolific inventor and former head of research for General Motors

Key Points:

  • The Pygmalion Effect explains that people tend to perform up to the level that others expect of them.
  • This effect explains why our relationships are usually self-fulfilling prophecies. Once you set expectations for somebody, that person will tend to live up to that expectation, whether it’s good or bad.
  • The Pygmalion Effect doesn’t justify having unrealistic expectations of other people. Expecting miracles is a recipe for frustration on both ends.
  • The paradox of the Pygmalion Effect is that having high expectations of people will produce better results, but it’s also more likely you’ll be disappointed. If you’re assessing someone, remember to judge as objectively as possible.

Questions for Consideration:

  • What do you expect from the people you work with? How do you communicate those expectations to them?
  • Are your expectations clear and reasonable?
  • Are you giving them a great reputation to live up to?

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True leaders aren’t made by business schools – they make themselves, seeking out the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to succeed. Read this book and you will learn in one week the principles it takes most business professionals a lifetime to master. Buy The Personal MBA by Josh Kaufman now.