From the classic “Fundamental Techniques in Handling People” to the modern‑day relevance of “Be a Leader,” Carnegie’s 1936 masterpiece still packs practical wisdom that feels fresh. Picture Credits: Ramsey Store
By Duncan Mnisi
Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends & Influence People continues to sit comfortably on the self-help throne, even nearly 90 years after its release. A glance at recent Medium and Goodreads reviews shows that readers still see it as “straight-forward, actionable, and incredibly human”—the kind of book that feels like Carnegie is speaking to you across a table over a warm cup of coffee.
At the centre of the book is Carnegie’s enduring premise: that people are driven by appreciation, respect, and genuine interest. It’s a lesson that continues to echo through leadership workshops across Africa—from high-pressure Johannesburg boardrooms to fast-growing Nairobi tech hubs.
The book’s short, punchy chapters make it an easy companion for a train ride, a quick break, or even the quiet moments before a meeting. Carnegie opens with the mantra that defines the entire work:
“You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get people interested in you.”
From remembering names to listening more than you speak, Carnegie’s principles feel as relevant in 2025 as they did in 1936. In multicultural environments—where rapport can shift negotiations, teamwork, and leadership—his guidance is pure gold.
His writing style is warm and conversational, almost sermon-like, rich with anecdotes of everyday people: salesmen, teachers, business owners. Those stories remain one of the book’s strongest anchors, rooting each principle in real human experience. As he famously put it, “You can’t win an argument, but you can win a friend.”
In today’s world of remote work, high-speed communication, and digital overload, Carnegie’s lessons feel even more urgent. As one recent Medium review put it, “The digital age amplifies the need for genuine connection—and Carnegie’s roadmap helps us get there.”
More than a relic of its era, How to Win Friends & Influence People stands as a modern workshop on empathy, persuasion, and leadership. Whether you’re a young entrepreneur in Cape Town, a community organiser in Gaborone, or a seasoned manager in Durban, Carnegie’s insights are as impactful as ever—and far more memorable than a boardroom PowerPoint.
