Hit IT!: A Tech Startup Story & 7 Rules for Entrepreneurs - A Deep Dive Review

by Chris Allison (Author)

Updated at: 24/02/2025

In "Hit IT!: A Tech Startup Story & 7 Rules for Entrepreneurs," Chris Allison, former CEO of Tollgrade Communications, shares his hard-won wisdom on building a thriving tech company and a fulfilling life. Drawing from his own experiences, Allison unveils the secrets to cultivating a winning corporate culture alongside substantial profits. This isn't just a business book; it's a practical guide offering actionable strategies for entrepreneurs at all levels. Discover the seven key rules that shaped Allison's success and learn how to navigate the challenges of startup life while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Get ready to Hit IT! and transform your entrepreneurial journey.

5 / 4 ratings

Review Hit IT!

Honestly, I found "Hit IT!: A Tech Startup Story & 7 Rules for Entrepreneurs" to be a breath of fresh air in the often-stuffy world of business books. Chris Allison doesn't just lay out a dry, theoretical framework for success; he dives headfirst into the messy, exhilarating, and occasionally terrifying reality of building a company from the ground up. It's clear from the very first page that this isn't some polished, corporate-speak manual – it's a raw, honest account of his journey as CEO of Tollgrade Communications, filled with both triumphant highs and humbling lows.

What struck me most was Allison's refreshing candor. He doesn't shy away from the mistakes he made, the setbacks he faced, or the sheer hard work required to achieve success. Instead, he uses these experiences as valuable teaching moments, offering practical advice and actionable strategies that feel both relevant and attainable. The seven rules he outlines aren't some magical formula for instant riches; rather, they're guiding principles grounded in real-world experience, emphasizing adaptability, resilience, and a healthy dose of perseverance. I particularly appreciated his emphasis on building a strong company culture, something often overlooked in discussions of business success. He makes a convincing case that a positive and supportive environment is just as crucial to profitability as a solid business plan.

The book's conversational tone is another major strength. Allison's storytelling is engaging, and the witty anecdotes peppered throughout keep the pages turning. He manages to balance insightful analysis with relatable humor, making even the more complex business concepts easy to grasp. It's a quick read, but not in a superficial way. The information is dense with valuable insights, and I found myself constantly dog-earing pages to revisit later, much like Jackie Williams mentioned in her review. There’s a wealth of information to absorb, and it's presented in a way that’s both enjoyable and genuinely helpful.

While aimed at entrepreneurs, I think "Hit IT!" offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the challenges of leadership or striving for professional growth. The emphasis on adaptability and problem-solving is applicable across various fields. The book's blend of memoir, instruction manual, and motivational speech creates a unique and effective approach to business advice. It's not just about achieving financial success; it's about building a fulfilling career while maintaining a sense of balance and humor along the way. If you're looking for a book that will inspire you to take risks, embrace challenges, and forge your own path, "Hit IT!" is a fantastic pick. It’s a book I’ll definitely be recommending to others, and one I suspect I’ll be revisiting myself for years to come.

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