Review of “The Fred Factor” by Mark Sanborn

Read this book. Everyone can benefit from the stories, the ideas, and the framework author Mark Sanborn explores. The Fred Factor is actionable, easy to read, and approachable no matter your current status in life.

Author Mark Sanborn explores the story of his mail carrier Fred. Fred is an exemplary employee, and through his service, adds value to the service of delivering the mail. The story is simple and charming. Fred’s Principles are broken down, by Sanborn first, and eventually by Fred himself. In a nutshell, Fred espouses the idea that we are responsible for the difference we make in the world, and that choosing not to make a positive influence on the world is still a choice to not make the best difference we can.

Fred is a charming character. The idea that someone life this can exist is remarkable and inspiring enough. Many people I know deal constantly with the struggle against a large organization. We could all make positive changes in others lives, but the size and organizational inertia of the workplace is daunting. Indeed, Fred proves that a mail carrier can throw off the typical shackles of the U.S. Postal Service. If Fred can be exceptional in those circumstances, I am sure that we all can be a little more Fred in our lives.

Fred reminds us all:

“There are no unimportant people, just people who feel unimportant doing their jobs” (Page 9)

“Faithfully doing your best, independent of the support, acknowledgment, or reward of others, is a key determinant in a fulfilling career.” (Page 10)

“You must continually create value for others, and it doesn’t have to cost a penny.” (Page 11)

The reason you need to read this book is summarized:

“At the end of each day, Fred has beaten a silent opponent that threatens his potential, just as it threatens yours and mine. That competitor is mediocrity, a willingness to do just enough and nothing more to get by. Any while this competitor may not beat you out for a job promotion or take away corporate may not beat you out for a job promotion or take away corporate market share, mediocrity will just as surely diminish the quality of your performance and the meaning you derive from it.” (Page 14)

Choosing to be better each and every day, to be a better version of yourself, and to serve others more will make you a success. Those choices are simply; those choices are easy to make most of the time. Today, when you have an opportunity to make someone’s day better, recognize that and enjoy it. Make your customer’s day. Anticipate the needs of others. Simplify a complex process. Treat a stranger as if they were your family.

The Fred Factor is enjoyable. It’s quick. Pick up a copy, and burn through it. The book is chicken soup for the soul if you are in customer service. If you get burnt out, read this book. If you experience lack of career fulfillment, read this book. Everyone can get a nugget from the stories of The Fred Factor.