In January, ICEL member Shane Inglesby, CCE presented his “tips and tricks” learned over the years as he retired as a credit manager. He told how the NACM helped him with education, friendships, networking and ultimately finding the job he retired from.

Shane said that he had a goal to “be better read”. He enlisted his team to help with this and started a book club. He shared a picture of his bookshelf, before sharing his must-reads, skips, and favorites. As the bookshelf was on the screen, I was taking notes and adding them to my Amazon cart. I had read quite a few on the list—Seven Habits, Who Moved My Cheese, Man’s Search for Meaning, Fish, etc. I ordered Blink, Atomic Habits, What to Say When You Talk to Yourself, and Everyday Bias to start.

I signed up for our company-wide book club when I got back from ICEL. February’s book was The Alchemist. I knew nothing about the book but thought it would be great to discuss reading with co-workers. With audits, close and life, I had to listen to the audiobook at 1.5 speed to finish on time! I never saw a correlation between The Alchemist and finance or credit management.

Our book club discussed themes of personal journey, fate, dreams, treasure, sheep and the pyramids. I didn’t know many in the group, but spending two hours talking and eating tarts was a great way to get to know them.

I am always looking for new books to read and appreciate Shane sharing his list. I will continue to work through it and attend our company book club and maybe at some point the two will cross!

**March’s book club pick is The Remains of the Day and that isn’t business themed either!