The reason that this book is so powerful is because it teaches you profound ways of dealing with people that you won't learn in school because it's generally something personal and each person goes about it their own way. Having the talent to know how to be somebody that everyone works well with and that is known for having other people want to do good work when you request something from them is something that cannot be measured in value but will prove results and look favorably on your record. I know, the game industry is labeled as one where people are anti-social and don't need to have good interpersonal skills, but it actually matters a lot--especially now that studios are growing in overall size and the diversity of backgrounds and personalities is more varied than it has ever been.
Take this, for an example: a powerful designer at my current studio, whom I work closely with, has a knack for being sarcastic and not treating coworkers with the most respect when requesting a new task or disciplining someone who has broken a design feature with their art. I have a pretty thick spine but sometimes the way this particular designer handles things instantly makes me want to respond in turn with more negativity and sarcasm and standing firm for my own position in the argument. A few times I have typed up email responses to him, because most of his crude remarks are sent through mass emails, only to not send them and feel better afterward. This is a good learning lesson for all: never make a quick decision in the heat of the moment and speak your mind. It may feel like justice at the time, but really it will make things more difficult with you and that person and possibly get you on a "bad employee" list with your boss or other influential people at the studio.
The way I have chosen to deal with him, in person, is by being extremely courteous and understanding. I may not agree with the way he communicates but he's usually right in his requests because it's a well known fact that the design is the most important factor to get right in a game and if I don't want to serve as a road block to having the designer make the design better. What the book How to Influence Friends and Influence People constantly states is to see the situation from the other person's point of view and have compassion for their decision or argument. Especially in a situation like mine, where I am an artist and newer to the studio, it pays for me to get along with everyone and to not burn any bridges.
Your reputation really does precede you, and wherever you go in your career will be determined by how good your reputation is. Your reputation, in turn, is formed by your ability to constantly handle tasks and how you work in a team. Every studio wants you to be a team player, no matter how good you are. So, swallow your pride and even if someone may not be treating you with the respect you feel you deserve, the only way to get them to treat you better is by being friendly and welcoming to them. You get what you give, and if you are mean back to them then they will only be fueled to be even meaner and then you will regret going to work each day just because you don't like that person so much. I've seen people on teams who literally can't get along with anyone, and those are always the people who have the hardest time getting a new job and also have to settle for the least desired jobs.
So, if you want to instantly improve your career and the success you will have in the future, you will need to improve your personality and the interactions you have with everyone in life. If you get the audio book version of Dale Carnegie's book, it is super-motivating and great to listen to while you are working on that portfolio to have an even better chance of a promotion or new job! Too many people focus on their talent for producing work only, and overlook the importance of improving their personality as well. Especially in the interview, having a pleasing personality is going to separate you from the competition. So, I am telling you to not overlook what everyone else is and hopefully you will find that opportunities come easier than they used to for you!
-Ken
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