First-Time Leaders of Small Groups offers novice and experienced leaders the information they need to keep their members interested and involved, resolve conflicts and deal with difficult people, and ultimately have their group achieve results . . . quickly. The book includes four steps for preparing to lead (selecting members, setting the groundwork for high performance, planning, and establishing your leadership style) and four steps for taking the lead (starting right, working smart, coaching, and assessing). These steps will help you take the lead with confidence. First-Time Leaders of Small Groups is filled with illustrative examples of a wide range of small groups and provides clear suggestions for action. The book includes:

Questions and answers based on research on what works well, and what does not

Diagnostics for determining your group's strengths and weaknesses

Leadership challenges—ideas for overcoming common difficulties

Self-assessments to help build confidence as a group leader

Examples of approaches for different group situations

Models for understanding how groups work

Activities for improving group functions

Key research findings

Easy-to-follow suggestions for practice