Why are so many people miserable in their jobs? Why does job engagement remain so low in the western world? In Simon’s book, he argues that there are two fundamental rules of corporate culture: Company outcome is dependent on culture Company culture is dependent on the leader Simon argues that leaders are so important as it is their behaviour which […]
Category Archives: Book reviews
May
03
What could you learn from ‘What you really need to lead’ by Robert Kaplan (2015, 179 pages)
posted by Max
“Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” – Harry Trueman There is a lot of evidence to support Trueman’s opinion that reading increases your leadership ability and potential (see this HBR article). However, with so much material available, it is difficult to know where to start. In ‘What you need to Lead’ […]
April
29
What could you learn from ‘Superbosses’ by Sydney Finkelstein? (2016, 220 pages)
posted by Max
While the definition and even the concept of leadership remain contested, it is clear that some individuals are widely considered to be exceptional leaders. What separates these leaders who leave their mark on the world, with the countless others who vanish with little or no trace? In ‘Superbosses’ Sydney Finkelstein argues that exceptional leaders (superbosses) […]
April
22
What could you learn from ‘Serial Innovators’ by Claudio Fesser (2012, 169 pages)?
posted by Max
Nokia started by selling rubber boots, and then grew to be the largest mobile phone maker in the world, only to spectacularly collapse a few years later. Apple was three months from bankruptcy. Lehman Brothers was phenomenally successful, until 2008… Why do companies die and how do you keep them alive? In the book Serial Innovators, […]
April
16
What you could learn from ‘Quick and Nimble’ by Adam Bryant (2014, 251 pages)
posted by Max
“Innovation distinguishes between leaders and follower.” Steve Jobs Innovation is one of the strongest sources of competitive advantage. Staying ahead of the competition allows you to explore new products, services, and business models while also making sure you are exploiting your existing offering. Adam Bryant offers 16 well thought and well-crafted pieces of advice […]
April
12
What could you learn from ‘Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World’ by Gen Stanley McChrystal (2015, 304 pages)
posted by Max
General Stanley McChristal has a phenomenal reputation amongst veterans. His new book ‘Team of Teams’ charts his experience commanding the Special Operations Task Force in Iraq. Stanley pointedly highlights the initial problems when arrives. He inherits a slow, top-down, bureaucratic organisation that is failing. The book then charts the evolution of the Task Force into […]
April
12
What can you learn from ‘Made to Stick’ by Chip & Dan Heath (2008, 284 pages)
posted by Max
A fantastic precursor to ‘Switch’, this book sets out a framework for getting people to remember what you tell them. Using some compelling examples, Chip and Dan argue that humans remember stories more that statistics or logical arguments. Chip and Dan provide a useful framework for checking whether your story/idea is likely to ‘stick.’ 1. […]
April
12
What can you learn from ‘The Effective Executive’ by Peter F. Drucker (2007, 154 pages)
posted by Max
Despite being written in 1967 the advice and guidance in this book could never be more relevant. Drucker outlines his five habits for the effective executive (that Jim Collins later uses as a basis for 8 Habits of Highly Effective Leaders). Drucker’s five habits are: Track, analyse and manage your time Focus on the outcome […]
April
12
What can you learn from ‘Nudge’ by Cass Sunstein & Richard Thaler (2009, 312 pages)
posted by Max
In their book ‘Nudge’, Thaler and Sunstein are among the first to set out the arguments for using behavioural insights to change (‘nudge’) people’s behaviour. By changing the context of a decision, they argue it is possible to reduce unhealthy or undesirable decisions. Their main arguments stem from making sure that choices are presented in […]
April
12
What can you learn from ‘What Every BODY is Saying’ by Joe Navarro (2008, 250 pages)
posted by Max
Joe Navarro, a former FBI interrogator deftly takes the reader through the basic mechanics of reading body language. I feel that this is essential reading for leaders and consultants as the tips and guidance will help develop your EQ. Key insights include establishing a baseline first, as this then allows you to see how your […]
April
12
What can you learn from ‘Talk like TED’ by Carmine Gallo (2014, 288pages)
posted by Max
‘Talk like Ted’ is a fantastic book for those looking to improve their ability to present, influence and create impact. Carmine Gallo combines her experience coaching CEOs and TED speakers and consolidates her advice into three areas (Emotional, Novel & Memorable) and nine tips. 1. Unleash the Master within (what are you passionate about) 2. […]
April
12
What you could learn from ‘Yes! 50 Secrets from the Science of Persuasion’ by Noah Goldstein (2007, 232 pages)
posted by Max
Noah Goldstein consolidates hundreds of research articles and condenses them into 50 secrets of persuasion. Each ‘secret’ is told in a very compelling and digestible way. The writing is concise, with supporting evidence and examples. One of the key insights is the six universal principles of social influence (reciprocity, authority, commitment/consistency, scarcity, liking and social […]
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