Leadership is both a fascinating art and an intriguing science.
To lead people, you need a vision and you need to know how to communicate it. If you can do these two things well, it is simply astonishing what you can accomplish.
If you are a manager, supervisor or team Leader, then this book was written for you.
Introduction to Leadership
Napoleon once said: “One bad general does better than two good ones.” It
takes a moment for the sense of this to register, but it is the same as our
modern saying that “too many cooks spoil the broth”. Having one set of
instructions, even if they are flawed, is preferable to having two sets of perfect
directions that, when enacted together without reference to each other, cause
havoc.
This is the principle of leadership in a nutshell. It is all about maintaining
focus and creating positive outcomes.
The same can be applied to individuals who strive to become leaders. There
needs to be focus and determination. Advice can be given, but does not have
to be heeded. History is full of leaders whose beginnings were disastrous, and
had they listened to the naysayers of this world, the world would be a poorer
place today.
Leadership can be learned. Some people are certainly born with leadership
skills, but this is not a prerequisite for becoming a leader. More important is
dedication to the art of leadership. Leadership involves understanding how to
inspire, influence and control how people behave. It is not a simple matter of
shouting, or having a deep and booming voice; or being great in physical
stature; Gandhi possessed none of these attributes, but managed to lead a
nation and inspire millions around the world.
Sometimes, leadership may be no more than having a poignant message for a
receptive audience at an opportune moment. Of itself, leadership is neither
good nor bad; the world has known more than its fair share of evil and
charismatic dictators.
Contents
Legal Disclaimers & Notices ........................................................................... 2
Contents ............................................................................................................ 3
Introduction to Leadership ............................................................................... 4
Understanding the Dark Side ........................................................................... 6
How to Lead and Influence People ................................................................ 10
Getting the Most from Your Team ................................................................. 15
10 Ways to Be a Better Leader ....................................................................... 18
Conclusion ...................................................................................................... 21
