Don is a retired executive who spent over twenty years at Wal-Mart. He presents many inspirational concepts like low resistance to change, MBWAL (management by walking around and listening) and all great accomplishments will be accompanied by pain. One of my favorite quotes from the book is "Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen." - Winston Churchill
I very much enjoyed this book. Soderquist has taken the lessons he learned in business and as a member of the Walmart inner circle to help others in leadership do their job better. While I do not like Walmart, this is an excellent book.
The thing I appreciated most about it was the small chapters. I was able to read 1-2 "chapters" at a time and it was excellent. I recommend this book to people in leadership. The story about the manager they were considering firing, but they decided to visit his store first and talk to employees was excellent. I feel much better about Walmart after a story like this, whether the culture is still as described or not I do not know.
But this book painted Walmart in and Sam Walton in an excellent light.
1/29/2014 …A short little book that will help keep you pointed in the right direction.
11/29/2023 I’ve reread this little book several times over the years and I always find something new that gets me really thinking.
With the latest reread a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote really stuck with me.
“Every great institution is the lengthened shadow of a single man. His character determines the character of his organization.”
The “lengthened shadow” of a single man (or person, it is 2023…) is such a strong visual and I find myself reflecting on the different ways to interpret its meaning.
I Loved this Book! This little volume will from now on be a constant part of my "rotation". Soderquist uses his two decades with Wal-Mart to teach the best in fundamental leadership principles. Seasoned throughout with Scripture, the Author illustrates that Providence is a vital component to Great Leadership. Everyone is called upon to lead in life at one point or another, this work is an excellent start and a wonderful reminder to keep on task. A Gem!
I had read this back in college but enjoyed the recent refresher. It is a quick read that doesn't give any particularly earth shattering advice; just the tried and true idea of sticking to your values above all else. Laced with inspiring quotes and insightful anecdotes, Soderquist delivers an enjoyable read.
Excellent little book. The quotes (including Bible verses) are enough to make this book good by themselves, but the real life examples are great too! You could read this several times, and take away something different each time.
This book doesn't really cover any new territory but it is the author's genuine summary of his values and lifelong learning. I found the combination of scripture, practical examples, and lifetime perspective useful and persuasive.
The former Senior Vice Chairman of Walmart dives into the heart of ethics and integrity in a leadership role. Excellent Christian perspective and powerful examples from his experiences with Sam Walton and others.
Enjoyed the book, lots of good real-life stories from Wal-Mart of values that made them successful. If anything, a bit heavy on the religion, but can understand that it has played a huge part in his life.
Excellent book. Don Soderquist has blended lessons from life and scripture to expound principles that makes the difference between merely living, and leading a purposeful life.