Authors: Kevin Kaiser, Michael Pich and I.J. Schecter
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Reviewer: Alain Portmann, head of media and insights, House of Kaizen
While I was initially sceptical of the book’s grand title, I found Becoming a Top Manager a useful, inspirational and practical read. The book reminded me of the continual professional transformation many of my peers and I have experienced throughout our careers – the evolution from a functional manager and expert to a general manager.
Instead of focusing on attributes that need to be modified, changed or improved, the book takes a no-nonsense approach to how behaviours, mindsets and priorities influence this transformation. To my relief, instead of having to absorb endless theories and principles, the book took me through the story of three fictional leaders, all of who take on new roles and integrate the views of numerous professionals that have attended the author’s seminars. While the storytelling approach of Becoming a Top Manager forced me to continually track the evolution of the characters described, I did spot myself and people I have worked with, more than once – something that was both useful and insightful.
The most enjoyable part of the book was the holistic view taken by the authors on the subject of career development and evolution. Instead of overemphasising and dissecting leadership traits and styles, it reaffirmed my belief that professional transformation is about value creation.
While the book could have done a better job at describing the human psychology and the behaviour behind change, it cleverly addresses three vital parts of professional transformation: managing the business, managing others and more importantly, managing oneself.
If anything, Becoming a Top Manager reminded me that one of the most useful traits in my present and future career is self-awareness – because no professional is an island.
Star Rating:
4/5