How to Develop Self-Confidence And Influence People About the Author About the Author: Dale Carnegie, an 18th century American lecturer and writer, has written many motivating books. After taking many odd jobs like selling correspondence courses, soap and trying his luck at acting, he took to teaching public speaking. His famous book How To Win Friends And Influence People received several accolades and remains a favorite even today. His other books include Lincoln, The Unknown and How To Stop Worrying And Start Living. He was a man of action and developed many courses on public speaking, marketing, corporate training, interpersonal skills, etc.