I am convinced that the biggest issues that confront database professionals are not technical, but are instead related to communication. Regardless of how cleaver your idea is, if you cannot communicate it, then it does not really matter. Also, if your own mind is closed to new ideas from others, then you will not be able to truly engage with your work. I was intrigued about this book for DBAs that shares my respect for the need for good communication.



"You do not know everything. Sorry to tell you, but better to find out now rather than later on." Thomas LaRock reminds us about this in his introduction to the job of a DBA because "...that simple fact will be questioned periodically." A sense of humility, and knowing your limits, helps you to keep an open mind, thus more able to solve problems and communicate.



Indeed, Oracle DBAs will need an open mind to get the most from this book. Its few technical examples are all for Microsoft SQL Server, not Oracle. Reading this book as an Oracle expert, I found myself feeling smug and superior in the few technical sections. I had to simply let go of that attitude, again and again. So why should an Oracle DBA be interested in this book? Because Mr. LaRock offers sage advice for the significant non-technical parts of our jobs. His focus on communication, business protocols, career growth, and selling yourself is unique and refreshing.



Although Mr. LaRock's target audience is someone just starting a DBA career, his advice provides general benefit, and it can be especially valuable for those who hire DBAs. Mr. LaRock's chapter on starting a new job was especially intriguing: I bet that many of us have yet to do all of the things he suggests for the first week on a job! I found that chapter so helpful that I shared it with friends starting non-DBA jobs.