VALLEY FORUM: What Are You Reading? Not everybody goes to business school, and even those that do often feel like they’re on their own once they get to work. People look for inspiration wherever they can find it, and that includes the library. So, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal asks: What book has had the greatest influence on your career? Jason Schaper Graphic Artist Jason Schaper Creative Consulting Northridge “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki and “So You Want to Live in HAWAII” by Toni Polancy are two books that have had a great impact on my career direction and personal goals. These books taught me not only how to be successful, but that I can do so in paradise. The books may seem like an odd combination, but they really filled in the gaps for me. Brian Cohen President TheLaundryList.com Sherman Oaks One of the books that has influenced me the most has nothing to do with business at all. “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand taught me that integrity is everything above all else. It reminded me that if you are honest with yourself in what you do and how you do it, things will always work out for the best. Jolene Koester President Cal State Northridge Northridge Many books have influenced me throughout my life and career, but there are certain ones that came to my attention at just the right moment. One such book is “Respect” by Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot. The book conveys fundamental values and principles about interacting with people in a positive and productive way. I found it humbling and beneficial because a large part of my job involves working and talking with others. Lawrence-Lightfoot speaks about the importance of paying respect to others by giving them attention, showing interest, really listening and engaging in meaningful dialogue. Zachary W. Schuler President Calnet Technology Group Northridge I’m in the process of reading “How to Become a Great Boss” by Jeffrey J. Fox. It is an excellent book and it does a great job reminding you to treat your team the way you want to be treated. After all, your company is only as strong as its people and I think that everyone in a managerial position needs be reminded of that from time to time. Tracy Beavers President Directions Design Group Woodland Hills Reading “Atlas Shrugged” (by Ayn Rand) every year taught me many things. Most importantly, it continues to remind me that it is our responsibility to think. Her words force me to not take on an “automatic mode” in life and inspires me to think beyond ordinary and accepted ways of accomplishing anything. As she says so eloquently, “No substitute can do your thinking, as no pinch-hitter can live your life We all need a philosophy, your only choice is whether you define your philosophy by a conscious, rational, disciplined process of thought and scrupulously logical deliberation.”