
In "The 11 Laws of Likability," Forbes' Top 25 Networking Expert Michelle Tillis Lederman reveals why authentic connections - not forced networking - drive success. Endorsed by psychotherapists for conquering social anxiety, it's the relationship bible career coaches recommend when technical skills aren't enough.
Michelle Tillis Lederman, author of The 11 Laws of Likability, is a Forbes Top 25 Networking Expert and founder of Executive Essentials, a leadership training firm specializing in communication and relationship-building strategies. A former finance executive with roles at JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank, Lederman combines her MBA from Columbia Business School with a decade of corporate experience to create actionable frameworks for authentic networking.
Her book, rooted in psychology and business communication, emphasizes trust-based connections over transactional interactions, reflecting her philosophy that "real relationships lead to real results."
Lederman has authored four books, including The Connector’s Advantage, which expands on her research into relationship-driven success. She frequently contributes to major media outlets like the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and CNBC, and has trained professionals at organizations ranging from Sony to Columbia Business School.
An adjunct professor at NYU Stern and faculty member at the American Management Association, her credibility is further bolstered by her International Coaching Federation PCC certification. Her methodologies are adopted by executives at Google, Ernst & Young, and top MBA programs worldwide, cementing her status as a trusted voice in professional development.
The 11 Laws of Likability by Michelle Tillis Lederman teaches readers to build authentic relationships through principles like curiosity, giving, and self-awareness. It emphasizes genuine networking over transactional interactions, focusing on how to connect meaningfully by being yourself, understanding others, and creating mutual value. The book combines psychology-backed frameworks with real-world examples to improve personal and professional rapport.
This book is ideal for professionals transitioning to leadership roles, job seekers, or anyone seeking to improve networking skills. Technical experts moving into management, entrepreneurs, and those struggling with self-image in social interactions will find actionable strategies to build trust and likability.
Yes—readers praise its practical advice, relatable case studies, and clear structure. Reviewers highlight its value for career-driven individuals needing to enhance emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills. The segregated case studies allow easy skimming for targeted insights.
The 11 laws include:
Lederman advocates for relationship-building through active listening, shared values, and consistent engagement. For example, her "Law of Familiarity" stresses deepening social media connections via direct communication, while the "Law of Mood Memory" highlights how emotional impressions outweigh transactional exchanges.
The first law underscores that insincerity repels meaningful connections. Authenticity involves aligning actions with values, avoiding forced interactions, and letting natural rapport drive relationships. Lederman warns that faking likability often backfires.
The "Law of Self-Image" teaches readers to reframe negative self-talk and embrace self-awareness. By focusing on strengths and aligning internal dialogue with desired outcomes, individuals project confidence, making others more receptive to engagement.
The "Law of Giving" encourages offering help without strings attached—whether through advice, introductions, or support. Lederman argues that generosity fosters reciprocity over time and strengthens trust, a cornerstone of lasting connections.
The book provides tools for leadership communication, interview performance, and workplace rapport. For example, the "Law of Perception" advises crafting a professional image through body language and tone, while the "Law of Energy" emphasizes proactive engagement to inspire others.
Michelle Tillis Lederman is a Forbes Top 25 Networking Expert, NYU Stern professor, and CEO of Executive Essentials. With a finance and leadership background, she’s authored four books and trained organizations like JPMorgan and Sony on communication strategies.
While praised for practicality, some may find its focus on self-improvement challenging if seeking quick fixes. The case-study-heavy approach, though skimmable, might overwhelm readers preferring concise steps. It’s most effective for those committed to long-term behavioral change.
Unlike transactional guides, Lederman prioritizes emotional intelligence and authenticity. The laws integrate psychology with tactical advice—like leveraging curiosity or patience—to foster organic relationships rather than superficial contacts.
저자의 목소리로 책을 느껴보세요
지식을 흥미롭고 예시가 풍부한 인사이트로 전환
핵심 아이디어를 빠르게 캡처하여 신속하게 학습
재미있고 매력적인 방식으로 책을 즐기세요
People like people who are like themselves.
Don't think, just be.
Before others can like you, you must first like yourself.
What we think about ourselves becomes who we are.
11 Laws of Likability의 핵심 아이디어를 이해하기 쉬운 포인트로 분해하여 혁신적인 팀이 어떻게 창조하고, 협력하고, 성장하는지 이해합니다.
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Here's a moment that changed everything: A student at NYU looked Michelle Tillis Lederman straight in the eye and said, "Your objective is just to make us like you." Her immediate response? Defensive indignation. "I don't care if you like me!" But that knee-jerk reaction revealed something deeper-a fundamental discomfort with a truth we all avoid. We do care whether people like us. We care deeply. And pretending otherwise doesn't make us more professional; it just makes us less authentic. This realization became the foundation for understanding that genuine connection, not calculated networking, creates the most powerful professional relationships. The real you, it turns out, is actually your greatest asset.