Hardball by Chris Matthews
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Chris Matthews' bestseller, Hardball served as a handbook for not only the politically avid, but those in pursuit of success. Matthews simplified and explained political strategies that can be used in everyday life. Matthews showed how patience, diligence, networking, and defense against opponent's blows prevailed and led to eventual triumph. In Hardball, Chris Matthews proves that through fundamental political tactics, not only political figures but everyday people can acquire success.
One of the key steps in succeeding in the "game of life" was forming alliances. As Matthews notes, "It's not who you know, it's who you get to Know." By getting to know one's peers and those who can potentially put him in a position of power, one guaranteed himself support and less conflict in the long run. The retail politics of person-to-person deals proved to be successful and can still be seen in the news today. On a local level, the SF Chronicle reported that Mayor Willie Brown's chief financier, Carolyn Carpenti, climbed the political ladder and gained prestige through her personal relationship with Brown and the networking she did through him while Brown was just an assembly speaker. Her tie to Brown led to appointments to significant positions including being in charge of the Women's Summit- a milestone for women's rights...