Title: Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World

Author: Sally Susman

Date of Publication: 2023

Publisher: Harvard Business Review Press

Favorite Quote: “In the end, I believe you want to make a difference, feel heard, and be understood so you can break through to a wider audience with a deeper connection.”

Summary:

It might sound obvious, but effective business communication is a deal-breaker. No one knows that better than Sally Susman, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Executive Vice President at Pfizer, the world's largest biopharmaceutical company. In Breaking Through, Susman leverages her experience at Pfizer, especially during the exceptionally difficult Covid-19 years, to help business leaders be more effective and persuasive communicators. This is no easy feat! Luckily, Susman is a master communicator and shows us how to approach this complex topic in a simple and relatable way.

Breaking Through is divided into ten chapters: “What Am I Trying to Say,” “Sticking Your Neck Out,” “Am I Boring You,” “Do Manners Matter Anymore,” “Measure Up to the Moment,” “Can You Hear Me Now,” “Hey! Who’s Going to Get the Credit,” “Lighten Up,” “Look for Answers in the Rearview Mirror,” and “Why Is Everybody So Angry.” Each chapter focuses on a different topic, and readers can easily pick a chapter that appeals to them rather than reading the book in order. Susman’s approach to communication emphasizes empathy, courage, intention, authenticity, trust, joy, and humility, amongst other things, and centers around communicating to initiate real and positive change. Susman writes with incredible heart and humor, weaving in all kinds of anecdotes and stories that make the book interesting and entertaining. Much of the content applies to personal communication in addition to professional, so there really is something here for everyone regardless of communication challenges or style.  

Overall, Breaking Through is a unique read filled with practical guidance for improving communications, especially in tough times or situations. I found it inspiring and refreshing and immediately thought of how to work the principles into my communication at work and at home. At the end of the day, we will always encounter difficult circumstances that can benefit from smart and intentional communication. This book provides plenty of food for thought and strategies for being better at motivating others to do better, if that makes sense. If you want to refine your communication skills and make a meaningful impact, I highly recommend you check this book out. Thanks for reading!

Breaking Through is available in print, eBook, and eAudiobook format through the library. You can search the catalog at gailborden.info/catalog to find this and other titles.

Submitted by: Rebecca Lapinski, Business & Career Services Librarian at Gail Borden Public Library. Please feel free to reach out to me at 847-695-3422 or rlapinski@gailborden.info.