getAbstract Summary: Get the key points from this book in less than 10 minutes.

In the mid-1980s, Warren Bennis wrote this classic model for modern leadership based on personal growth, self-expression, learning and integrity, drawing from interviews with dozens of leaders. Most importantly, he found, leaders do not seek to lead. Instead, they seek to express themselves fully. They embrace risks and mistakes, learning from adversity. They reflect on all of their experiences. With these skills, they inspire others to follow them. They turn organizations into communities which find each member's highest potential. Bennis falls into the one mistake he accuses American managers of making: he takes a poll (of successful leaders) and then gets caught in short-term thinking to address its results. As a result, this pessimistic analysis of American business is dated today. In the 21st century's light, some of his examples - i.e. the late Robert Maxwell and Apple Computer's John Sculley - seem quite dubious. However, getAbstract.com appreciates Bennis' basic, inspiring philosophy of leadership and so will you. Read this if you want to lead - and be good at it.

Book Publisher:

Perseus Books