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Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver: Delivering a Culture of We, Not Me
Instead of writing a typical business memoir that celebrates the leader as celebrity, Wallace shares vivid stories that focus on the people he worked with, the challenges they overcame, and the simple principles and practices that make up the UPS way. He exhorts his fellow leaders to grow their people, not just their business plans. The leadership style described in this book is simple and direct, and it works. The straightforward and easy-to-understand lessons provide a blueprint for an individual or company to build on past successes and adapt to future challenges. This is a must-have for anyone aspiring to become a great leader.
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First published April 2, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 7, 2026
Initially, this book gave me the impression that it was going to be all "rah, rah, UPS is great". Don't let that fool you, if you picked up on that too. Soldier through. Wallace does a good job of being real, telling about UPS and leadership lessons that he learned along the way without overselling the organization. Good book!
Best quote:
"When there's nothing more to say, don't say it." (p. 109) Reminds me of Yogi Berra!
Personal connection:
Wallace wrote about something that I learned from my mentor, many years ago...by watching him do the wrong things in this instance. 🫤 "Be present. Give people your full and undivided attention. When you are with someone, don't let anything distract you. Those phone calls and messages can wait until later. / When you allow distractions to interrupt conversations with others, not only are you being rude, you're sending a message that other things are more important than the people who are with you. They came to talk with you, not to watch you act as though you are too busy. / Shut out the rest of the world. It will still be there when you return. As I've said before, communication is good, but connective communication is better." (p. 98)
Most impressive takeaway:
At one point, the salespeople at a particular division of UPS were without good leads and the business was flagging. The president of the company gathered them together and took them on a dumpster-diving expedition, rooting out all shipping packages that had been discarded by local businesses. They cut out the shipping labels and used them as sales leads! What a great, simple, effective idea.
Thought for the moment:
Beware 'skewing'. Farmers can get used to the smell in the barn...but if you don't work in a barn and your business practices stink, fix it now! "Over time, if management continues to neglect such critical warning signs, employees will become numb to the downward slide. When this happens, that strong barn smell becomes imperceptible to those living in the barn, but your customers and others will certainly notice... If something doesn't smell right, take immediate action and find the source of this unpleasant odor." (pp. 67-68)
Best quote:
"When there's nothing more to say, don't say it." (p. 109) Reminds me of Yogi Berra!
Personal connection:
Wallace wrote about something that I learned from my mentor, many years ago...by watching him do the wrong things in this instance. 🫤 "Be present. Give people your full and undivided attention. When you are with someone, don't let anything distract you. Those phone calls and messages can wait until later. / When you allow distractions to interrupt conversations with others, not only are you being rude, you're sending a message that other things are more important than the people who are with you. They came to talk with you, not to watch you act as though you are too busy. / Shut out the rest of the world. It will still be there when you return. As I've said before, communication is good, but connective communication is better." (p. 98)
Most impressive takeaway:
At one point, the salespeople at a particular division of UPS were without good leads and the business was flagging. The president of the company gathered them together and took them on a dumpster-diving expedition, rooting out all shipping packages that had been discarded by local businesses. They cut out the shipping labels and used them as sales leads! What a great, simple, effective idea.
Thought for the moment:
Beware 'skewing'. Farmers can get used to the smell in the barn...but if you don't work in a barn and your business practices stink, fix it now! "Over time, if management continues to neglect such critical warning signs, employees will become numb to the downward slide. When this happens, that strong barn smell becomes imperceptible to those living in the barn, but your customers and others will certainly notice... If something doesn't smell right, take immediate action and find the source of this unpleasant odor." (pp. 67-68)
April 7, 2016
Such an exceptionally written book by former UPS International president Ron Wallace that chronicles his rise through the ranks first as a delivery driver in rural northern Idaho and from a seat from behind the wheel to becoming president of the company and a chair at its global Board of Directors table.
Instead of writing a typical business memoir that celebrates the leader as celebrity, Wallace shares vivid stories that focus on the people he worked with, the challenges they overcame, and the simple principles and practices that make up the UPS way. He exhorts his readers to grow their people, not just their business plans. The leadership style described in this book is simple and direct—and it works. The straightforward and easy-to-understand lessons provide a blueprint for an individual or company to build on past successes and adapt to future challenges. This is a must-read for anyone aspiring to become a great leader.
PRAISE FOR LEADERSHIP LESSONS
“UPS founder Jim Casey regularly reminded his managers of the many benefits of investing in their people. ‘While building up others, you will build up yourself,’ he said. Ron Wallace was a walking testament to this spirit, and his book will serve as an inspiration for all managers looking to help their teams climb to new heights.”
David Abney, Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service
“Ron Wallace does a phenomenal job of sharing leadership insights in Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver. You’ll be intrigued as you learn to apply these principles to your life. Very practical steps yet remarkable results when applied.”
Dan T. Cathy, Chairman, President, and CEO, Chick-fil-A, Inc.
“Ron has assembled a definitive playbook on executing and sustaining outstanding leadership. With this book, you will also learn how to inspire others to be credible leaders.”
Carla Harris, Vice Chairman, Global Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley
“There is a lot to be learned from real people with values from the heartland of America. There’s a lot to learn from Ron Wallace, a man who gets it and makes it real. Trust me, this book is more than words—it is filled with integrity and grit. Read with your heart, and the truths will help you make a difference.”
Terry London, former President and CEO, London Broadcasting Company, and Chairman of the Board, Pier 1 Imports
“Books on leadership are a dime a dozen. However, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is more than a book. It is a Leadershift! It uses simple wisdom for leading in a world of rough riders. I like the applicable concepts and insightful examples. Every leader, emerging leader, and even those who lead without a title should do everything in this book. It’s a game changer!”
Simon T. Bailey, author of Shift Your Brilliance
“UPSers believe in the principle that your mission throughout your career is to leave the company in a better state than when you arrived. Ron Wallace did that at UPS. If you follow Ron’s leadership insights in this book, you too will leave your company in a better state.”
Scott Davis, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 2008–2014
“Ron Wallace writes about the values and leadership that helped establish a culture so that UPSers around the world understand that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Mike Eskew, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 2002–2007
“Terrific job by Ron Wallace in capturing the leadership characteristics and bedrock principles of UPS and the people of UPS. Many of us can relate to Ron’s examples because we have been there ourselves.”
Jim Kelly, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 1997–2001
“Early in your career, in mid-career, or sitting on top, read this book if you want to be a more effective leader. It draws on the thoughts and principles of the past UPS leaders as well as the experience of author Ron Wallace, whose strong business credentials cannot be denied.”
Kent C. “Oz” Nelson, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 1989–1996
“Ron Wallace has been there, done that, and now we have the book to prove it. Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver has more practical wisdom than a Harvard MBA or an entire library of business texts. Wallace has produced a paint-by-numbers set for the aspiring executive. As a bonus, it is a practical bible on how to live a more fulfilling life.”
The Honorable Frank McKenna, former Canadian ambassador to the United States and former Premier of New Brunswick
“You can never read enough about inspirational life stories, just as you can never read enough about great leadership. This book has both!”
Herman Cain, President and CEO, The New Voice, Inc., and former Republican presidential candidate
“No matter what industry or field you work in, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver will change your approach to leadership in a most significant way. Ron’s pragmatic and highly effective leadership skills will help you take your game to a completely new level. You’ll achieve remarkable results if you use the easy-to-follow steps outlined in this book. I guarantee it.”
Kent G. Callahan, President and CEO, Investments & Retirement Division, Transamerica
“The powerful way Ron’s personal experiences have been interwoven with inspiring and profound leadership truths is brilliant. I’m a better author and consultant from reading this book—I guarantee you will be a better leader! Saddle up and get ready for a great ride!”
Chip R. Bell, author of The 9 1/2 Principles of Innovative Service
“When someone has been a key leader for one of the world’s most respected organizations, and it has over 400,000 employees, and he writes a book about the lessons he learned, it should be a must-read. UPS is the company, Ron Wallace is the man, and Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is the book. Thanks, Ron, for sharing your wisdom with the world!”
Mark Miller, Vice President, Leadership Development, Chick-fil-A, Inc., and coauthor of the international bestseller The Secret
“Reading a book by a man who started at the bottom and worked his way up, as Ron did, interests me. A workhorse myself, I feel a strong kinship with him. He makes it clear that his book is for us workhorses. If you aspire to be effective, this book is for you. It is not for show horses. No matter your level of responsibility within your organization, his advice is applicable. If you are prepared to learn, you have found a good teacher.”
Jimmy Collins, retired President and COO, Chick-fil-A, Inc., and author of Creative Followership
“For decades, Ron Wallace displayed unique leadership abilities at UPS. This would ultimately lead him to being responsible for thousands of employees who had to get things done in complex situations every day. Whether you’re a beginning or an experienced leader, Ron’s book, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver, can change your life as well as the life of your organization. It’s a leadership must-read.”
Mark Levy, author of Accidental Genius
“Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is a must-read for leaders at all levels as well as those who aspire to be leaders. The proven principles that worked for Ron Wallace in his exemplary career are detailed in a very practical manner. Ron’s stories bring his leadership principles to life. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an outstanding leader as you pursue a career of excellence.”
John R. Patterson, innovative service consultant and speaker and coauthor of Wired and Dangerous
“Finally, a book that hits the heart of doing what’s right. A straightforward, no-holds-barred approach to leadership principles. A refreshing wake-up call for anyone leading others.”
Emily Thomas Kendrick, President and CEO, Arrow Exterminators, Inc.
Instead of writing a typical business memoir that celebrates the leader as celebrity, Wallace shares vivid stories that focus on the people he worked with, the challenges they overcame, and the simple principles and practices that make up the UPS way. He exhorts his readers to grow their people, not just their business plans. The leadership style described in this book is simple and direct—and it works. The straightforward and easy-to-understand lessons provide a blueprint for an individual or company to build on past successes and adapt to future challenges. This is a must-read for anyone aspiring to become a great leader.
PRAISE FOR LEADERSHIP LESSONS
“UPS founder Jim Casey regularly reminded his managers of the many benefits of investing in their people. ‘While building up others, you will build up yourself,’ he said. Ron Wallace was a walking testament to this spirit, and his book will serve as an inspiration for all managers looking to help their teams climb to new heights.”
David Abney, Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service
“Ron Wallace does a phenomenal job of sharing leadership insights in Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver. You’ll be intrigued as you learn to apply these principles to your life. Very practical steps yet remarkable results when applied.”
Dan T. Cathy, Chairman, President, and CEO, Chick-fil-A, Inc.
“Ron has assembled a definitive playbook on executing and sustaining outstanding leadership. With this book, you will also learn how to inspire others to be credible leaders.”
Carla Harris, Vice Chairman, Global Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley
“There is a lot to be learned from real people with values from the heartland of America. There’s a lot to learn from Ron Wallace, a man who gets it and makes it real. Trust me, this book is more than words—it is filled with integrity and grit. Read with your heart, and the truths will help you make a difference.”
Terry London, former President and CEO, London Broadcasting Company, and Chairman of the Board, Pier 1 Imports
“Books on leadership are a dime a dozen. However, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is more than a book. It is a Leadershift! It uses simple wisdom for leading in a world of rough riders. I like the applicable concepts and insightful examples. Every leader, emerging leader, and even those who lead without a title should do everything in this book. It’s a game changer!”
Simon T. Bailey, author of Shift Your Brilliance
“UPSers believe in the principle that your mission throughout your career is to leave the company in a better state than when you arrived. Ron Wallace did that at UPS. If you follow Ron’s leadership insights in this book, you too will leave your company in a better state.”
Scott Davis, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 2008–2014
“Ron Wallace writes about the values and leadership that helped establish a culture so that UPSers around the world understand that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Mike Eskew, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 2002–2007
“Terrific job by Ron Wallace in capturing the leadership characteristics and bedrock principles of UPS and the people of UPS. Many of us can relate to Ron’s examples because we have been there ourselves.”
Jim Kelly, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 1997–2001
“Early in your career, in mid-career, or sitting on top, read this book if you want to be a more effective leader. It draws on the thoughts and principles of the past UPS leaders as well as the experience of author Ron Wallace, whose strong business credentials cannot be denied.”
Kent C. “Oz” Nelson, retired Chairman and CEO, United Parcel Service, 1989–1996
“Ron Wallace has been there, done that, and now we have the book to prove it. Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver has more practical wisdom than a Harvard MBA or an entire library of business texts. Wallace has produced a paint-by-numbers set for the aspiring executive. As a bonus, it is a practical bible on how to live a more fulfilling life.”
The Honorable Frank McKenna, former Canadian ambassador to the United States and former Premier of New Brunswick
“You can never read enough about inspirational life stories, just as you can never read enough about great leadership. This book has both!”
Herman Cain, President and CEO, The New Voice, Inc., and former Republican presidential candidate
“No matter what industry or field you work in, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver will change your approach to leadership in a most significant way. Ron’s pragmatic and highly effective leadership skills will help you take your game to a completely new level. You’ll achieve remarkable results if you use the easy-to-follow steps outlined in this book. I guarantee it.”
Kent G. Callahan, President and CEO, Investments & Retirement Division, Transamerica
“The powerful way Ron’s personal experiences have been interwoven with inspiring and profound leadership truths is brilliant. I’m a better author and consultant from reading this book—I guarantee you will be a better leader! Saddle up and get ready for a great ride!”
Chip R. Bell, author of The 9 1/2 Principles of Innovative Service
“When someone has been a key leader for one of the world’s most respected organizations, and it has over 400,000 employees, and he writes a book about the lessons he learned, it should be a must-read. UPS is the company, Ron Wallace is the man, and Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is the book. Thanks, Ron, for sharing your wisdom with the world!”
Mark Miller, Vice President, Leadership Development, Chick-fil-A, Inc., and coauthor of the international bestseller The Secret
“Reading a book by a man who started at the bottom and worked his way up, as Ron did, interests me. A workhorse myself, I feel a strong kinship with him. He makes it clear that his book is for us workhorses. If you aspire to be effective, this book is for you. It is not for show horses. No matter your level of responsibility within your organization, his advice is applicable. If you are prepared to learn, you have found a good teacher.”
Jimmy Collins, retired President and COO, Chick-fil-A, Inc., and author of Creative Followership
“For decades, Ron Wallace displayed unique leadership abilities at UPS. This would ultimately lead him to being responsible for thousands of employees who had to get things done in complex situations every day. Whether you’re a beginning or an experienced leader, Ron’s book, Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver, can change your life as well as the life of your organization. It’s a leadership must-read.”
Mark Levy, author of Accidental Genius
“Leadership Lessons from a UPS Driver is a must-read for leaders at all levels as well as those who aspire to be leaders. The proven principles that worked for Ron Wallace in his exemplary career are detailed in a very practical manner. Ron’s stories bring his leadership principles to life. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an outstanding leader as you pursue a career of excellence.”
John R. Patterson, innovative service consultant and speaker and coauthor of Wired and Dangerous
“Finally, a book that hits the heart of doing what’s right. A straightforward, no-holds-barred approach to leadership principles. A refreshing wake-up call for anyone leading others.”
Emily Thomas Kendrick, President and CEO, Arrow Exterminators, Inc.
June 26, 2018
Wallace provides simple but profound insights from an extremely successful global corporation.
Truthfully, nothing said is new, but everything written was on par with what other great leaders have said/written. What separates this volume from others is (1) the tremendous stories and their application to team environments and (2) the continual references to empowering all employees to own their company.
Well written, and I’m more intrigued by the culture created within UPS.
Truthfully, nothing said is new, but everything written was on par with what other great leaders have said/written. What separates this volume from others is (1) the tremendous stories and their application to team environments and (2) the continual references to empowering all employees to own their company.
Well written, and I’m more intrigued by the culture created within UPS.
July 9, 2020
Every person in the work environment should read/listen to this book. It’s a great book with great principles that will help you to understand how management should work and how a company should be run. Highly recommend this book.
January 3, 2017
Learnt some good tips from this book on employee engagement, managing under different situations, how to be a role model leader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2018
Good book for newbies and those in corporate culture.
Interesting history bits about UPS.
Interesting history bits about UPS.
December 5, 2016
The management team at UPS, including the CEO and management committee, started as drivers, part time loaders, car washers, and clerks. Ron Wallace writes, “We promote from within to ensure that the company can pass on our legacy and culture seamlessly from one generation to the next.” In 1966, Ron Wallace was hired to be a UPS delivery driver. He would then move up the corporate ladder occupying many leadership roles. He was the head of UPS North German district for six years and then president of UPS Canada for three years and then President of UPS International before retiring in 2002. My Full review: https://microcapclub.com/2016/07/book...
April 15, 2016
Easy to read, this book presents leadership principles alongside real-life examples which encourages practical application. Teamwork is at the core of this book. Ron offers suggestions to leaders not only on how best to improve themselves but also on how to encourage and strengthen their team members. One particular emphasis is that great leaders put effort into developing relationships with others. This book is a must read for anyone who is currently in leadership and those who are seeking leadership roles.
April 14, 2016
This short book was a nice collection of disorganized nuggets of wisdom. I agree with pretty much every point made and I came to respect the author a lot. I give it 3 stars partly because it has little structure and mostly because while true it doesn't add a lot of new thinking to leadership practice.
Read
January 23, 2017This book provides a great general look at some key principles that will make a person a strong leader. Written in easy themed chapters the author provides a skilled mix of cultural background, true live lessons and easy to remember principles that will help you become a strong leader in your organization.
October 19, 2018
Great
Well written with great gems on how to lead teams with humility and service. Leading with empathy, compassion and passion in a way that gets consistent results
Well written with great gems on how to lead teams with humility and service. Leading with empathy, compassion and passion in a way that gets consistent results
December 8, 2018
3.5 stars
April 10, 2017
One of the best books in leadership. Simple and powerful.
April 22, 2017
A reasonable read for leadership principles. I look for specific experience events in a book like this, to see real-world applications in practice, and Mr. Wallace does include these, but they are so generalized that at several points I felt as though I was just reading a generic situation description from a textbook. So worth reading, but average.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews