Philip Delves Broughton

Philip Delves Broughton is a British journalist and author who has made significant contributions to business journalism and literature. His work spans both newspaper journalism and book-length explorations of business culture, with particular focus on management education and sales. After receiving his classics degree from Oxford University, Broughton spent a decade in journalism, serving as the New York correspondent for The Daily Telegraph during the 9/11 attacks and later as the paper's Paris Bureau Chief. His transition from journalism to business education at Harvard Business School became the subject of his first bestselling book "Ahead of the Curve" (2008). His subsequent works include "The Art of the Sale" (2012), which examines the culture and psychology of selling through a global lens. Broughton's writing style combines analytical insight with narrative storytelling, drawing from his diverse background in classics, journalism, and business education. Born in Dacca, Bangladesh to a Church of England missionary father, Broughton's international upbringing has informed his global perspective on business and culture. His work regularly appears in publications such as The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times.

Readers praise Broughton's insider perspective and candid observations, particularly in "Ahead of the Curve." Amazon reviewers note his ability to blend personal experience with critical analysis of Harvard Business School culture. Readers highlight: - Clear, engaging writing style - Balanced perspective on business education - Humor in describing MBA program experiences - Fresh takes on sales culture in "The Art of the Sale" Common criticisms: - Some find his tone privileged or elitist - "The Art of the Sale" readers note repetitive examples - Several mention wanting more concrete business insights - Some HBS alumni dispute his portrayal of the school Ratings across platforms: Ahead of the Curve - Goodreads: 3.7/5 (2,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.1/5 (180+ reviews) The Art of the Sale - Goodreads: 3.6/5 (850+ ratings) - Amazon: 4/5 (90+ reviews) One reader summarizes: "Broughton offers sharp observations without getting too academic or preachy."

Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School (2008) A detailed first-person account of the author's experience as a non-traditional student at Harvard Business School, documenting the challenges, culture, and educational approach of the MBA program.

The Art of the Sale: Learning from the Masters About the Business of Life (2012) An examination of sales practices and techniques across different cultures and industries, featuring interviews with successful salespeople and analysis of various selling approaches worldwide.

Michael Lewis His background in financial journalism and ability to explain complex business concepts through storytelling parallels Broughton's approach. His books examine business culture and Wall Street dynamics through character-driven narratives.

Malcolm Gladwell He combines journalism with social analysis to explore business and societal patterns. His work shares Broughton's focus on examining success, decision-making, and human behavior in business contexts.

Duff McDonald He writes critically about business education and corporate culture with an insider's perspective. His examination of elite institutions and management culture aligns with Broughton's analysis of Harvard Business School.

Robert Cialdini His research on influence and persuasion explores the psychology of business interactions and decision-making. His work complements Broughton's examination of sales psychology and business relationships.

William D. Cohan His background as a former banker turned journalist gives him an insider-outsider perspective similar to Broughton's. His investigations of Wall Street culture and financial institutions mirror Broughton's analytical approach to business culture.