Really great read about how to effectively communicate when the stakes are high. I really liked the parts about the use of contrasting statements and...moreReally great read about how to effectively communicate when the stakes are high. I really liked the parts about the use of contrasting statements and making it safe for those you're talking to as I've found that's the point where a lot of communication gets lost. A few too many endorsements of the book throughout that I could have done without, but I liked that the book referenced both workplace and personal scenarios and that there were a lot of practical takeaways.
A must read for anyone who communicates anything, ever, to anyone. ;0 (less)
The central theme is any idea can take off and be pushed from unsuccessful to epidemic in the hands of the right people, at the right time and with th...moreThe central theme is any idea can take off and be pushed from unsuccessful to epidemic in the hands of the right people, at the right time and with the right angle. Filled with insightful examples that absolutely make the case. I only gave it a 4 because while the premise is insightful, it's a little thin on practical application. The read will definitely change your thinking about being intentional in making things happen.(less)
I'm a huge fan of Gladwell's books and his insightful and often twisted view of the world. His books constantly challenge my thinking and leave me fee...moreI'm a huge fan of Gladwell's books and his insightful and often twisted view of the world. His books constantly challenge my thinking and leave me feeling profoundly changed and eager to do a deeper dive into what I think and why.
Of his books, I think I enjoyed Outliers the most, but Blink was right up there. The central premise talks about unconscious decision making and snap judgments, when to rely on them and when not to. Interesting premise, and as usual he uses several fantastic examples to make his point. (his use of the female orchstra audition was a favorite of mine...)
I would recommend all of Gladwell's books highly. I'd start with Outliers, but found both Blink and Tipping Point to be equally challenging and insightful.(less)
Dr. Goulston outlines strategies for faster coping during crisis, mirroring others, recognizing needs, and deescalating with a little manipulation thr...moreDr. Goulston outlines strategies for faster coping during crisis, mirroring others, recognizing needs, and deescalating with a little manipulation thrown in for good measure. Some of his examples were a titch simplistic and not-so-believable, but on the whole a very good read. (less)
Good read on managing emotional aspects of leadership, highlighted by profiles of both successful and failing CEOs. Keys according to Menkes include t...moreGood read on managing emotional aspects of leadership, highlighted by profiles of both successful and failing CEOs. Keys according to Menkes include the ability to re-frame a dire situation into an opportunity to drive action, and being able to critically identify the most crucial pieces of a given situation in the face of a crisis. Almost a 5 star read as it strongly resonated with me in identifying the most glaring weaknesses of young leaders. (less)
A manifesto on workplace creeps that make "targets" feel oppressed, humiliated, de-energized and belittled. The book addresses the reasons for the beh...moreA manifesto on workplace creeps that make "targets" feel oppressed, humiliated, de-energized and belittled. The book addresses the reasons for the behavior, how to handle it, and how to stop the spread of asshole poison. I thought the book missed the boat by not focusing enough on the more subtle breed of assholism in the workplace that leaves staff feeling unmotivated, generally disrespected and not making strong enough connections between that and the bottom line.
The biggest takeaway for me is not in trying to control assholes, but learning how to not let them control my world (detach and avoid), and being aware of my own asshole tendencies so I don't become the people I detest. The book successfully took an outer frustration and made me turn it inward, which I appreciate. (less)
Overall, not very impressed with this one. I enjoy reading leadership books about leadership being applied in different spheres (i.e-religion and mini...moreOverall, not very impressed with this one. I enjoy reading leadership books about leadership being applied in different spheres (i.e-religion and ministry in this case), but the principles were so incredibly tied to ministry that I couldn't find much generally applicable value in it. Also, there was odd and completely inappropriate use of hypens so frequently throughout the book, I almost couldn't finish reading it. (less)
After reading Sutton's previous work the "No Asshole Rule", this is definitely the stronger work. If you read Good Boss, Bad Boss, DO NOT read the pre...moreAfter reading Sutton's previous work the "No Asshole Rule", this is definitely the stronger work. If you read Good Boss, Bad Boss, DO NOT read the previous work as Sutton incorporates much of his other work here with much more substance.
Overall, a well written and practically applicable Leadership Manifesto. Keen observations on the corruption of power, and how to keep yourself both human and accountable to those you lead. Excellent observations, case studies and citing examples of infamous leaders who either excelled or struggled with the principles at work.
The book made me take a hard look at the leadership dynamics in my workplace and the effect on levels of trust, respect and motivation of those under their guidance. I could quote most of the book, but a few simple takeaways:
"The main test is whether or not followers believe their boss has got their back."
"Great bosses avoid burdening their people...ask youself, what can I do to help my people travel through the day with fewer hassles?"
"If you want to grab power and don't care much about your people, schedule a lot of meetings and make sure you arrive a little late, barely paying attention when you do arrive."
"Sometimes, however a boss can avoid open disobedience by simply ignoring a superior's idiocy and doing what is best."
"There are times when every boss must do things that hurt others. But there is a big difference between what you do, and how you do it."
"The best bosses know it is better to give people explanations they dislike, than no explanation at all."
"What you have done in the past colors how people respond to the moves you make. Once people believe you are a liar, all authentic prediction, understanding, control and compassion in the world may not be enough to save you."
"Bosses who successfully enlist others to help them avoid and reverse power poisioning usually have a history of treating people with respect and listening to and learning from criticism rather than getting defensive and shooting the messengers. If you are a boss, urging colleagues to deliver bad news isn't enough; you need to react with grace and try to change when they call you a jerk."
"Embarrassment and pride are the most powerful antidotes to asshole poisioning. When you look back at how you've treated followers, peers and superiors, will you have earned the right to be proud of yourself? Or will they believe you ought to be ashamed and embarrased by how you trampled on others dignity day after day?"
"Your success depends on staying in tune with how others think, feel and react to you. Developing and sustaining self-awareness ought to be at the top of the list for every boss. These bosses urge followers to challenge them with enlightening and disconcerting questions."
"The test should be whether people want to work for the boss again, and would enthusiastically choose to do so." (less)
Really good read with a lot of practical tips for improving bad workplace behaviors. This book really hit home and I could see lots of my own problem...moreReally good read with a lot of practical tips for improving bad workplace behaviors. This book really hit home and I could see lots of my own problem behaviors in his suggestions. Lots of simplistic ideas for holding yourself accountable to your opportunities for improvement. (less)
One of the best books i've ever read. A mix of 1984, Survivor and Lord of the Flies. Completely riveting and disturbing....Flew through it in a day, a...moreOne of the best books i've ever read. A mix of 1984, Survivor and Lord of the Flies. Completely riveting and disturbing....Flew through it in a day, absolutely couldn't put it down! Can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy! (less)
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