I'm starting at C1 level at a major firm and was rated high for (sorry if I sound like a twat writing this) intellect/academics/presentation, but identified as a bit weak in business acumen. (Based on my case study responses.) This was "forgiven" due to my lack of client interaction and my previous largely "internal operational" roles. I know there's no substitute for experience, and that my question exemplifies my academic approach... but can anyone recommend some good, practical books that might help me prepare? I’ve got six weeks before the new role begins. Thanks for any advice.Cheers. :-)

Try dilbert strips... and I'm really quite serious!

In terms of understanding: Read the FT everyday in the run-up to starting and you'll build an understanding of different business processes and current topics. After that you can relax a little, read the business section of the times every sunday and keep up with the current business climate. You should also read The 10 Day MBA which you can get from Amazon, and pick up a good book on consulting to get you into the mindset.If you're focused on a particular industry make sure you're reading the trade press and have an understanding of who the key players are.There seems little else that you can do in terms of exposure so gen-up all you can - you'll learn more in the first three months than you expect but you'll have a head start if you know your subject matter.

the FT is good - but in my humble opnion you can't beat the economist:It's weekly so it is easir to get through it all and it can take a longer, less headline driven, viewIt covers business and world affair (esp. imp. in todys world)It provides explanations in its articles abou the subject being discussed.And its a good readAlso, make sure that you learn about who your clients is - reserch them and their industry oon the web, sign up for email alerts with the business news services about them and their industry and try to read the trade press that they read. This should give you insights into their issues and agenda, PLUS you'll look insightful and knowledgable as you have small talk with your client and are able to pick up extra insights.I agree with Bingobongo abot the 10-day MBA. It is a very good book. I read it years before my MBA, and refer to it in preference to my MBA course notes/books now.good luck

Excellent advice. Thanks bingobango and P for taking the time to respond. FT will be taken each evening from the lobby on the way out (nobody else seems to read it!), and I’ll pick up the Economist and the MBA book.PS - I love Dilbert! I'll have to throw a couple of those books on the reading pile as well. :-)

How refreshing to see a string of posts that are all constructive and not the sort of derogatory comments from those that think they are BSDs. On a seperate note the Alex cartoon in the Torygraph provides a tongue in cheek view of some of the humour kicking around. Dilberts still good tho'