Author: Lee G. Bolman and Terrence E. Deal
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
Reviewer: Nicola Millington, founder, FP Comms
When I initially laid my hands on this book, I had high expectations. Beforehand, I took the time to listen to an audio of clip the first few paragraphs online and felt confident this book would give me a new perspective and maybe even confirm a few principles I have used in the past to lead my own team.
‘How Great Leaders Think’, is carefully constructed around ‘Four-Frame Models’:
- Structural
- Human Resources
- Political
- Symbolic
As I started to leaf through the pages, I quickly began to highlight relevant phrases and sentences that resonated with me. However, after chapter one, I began to labour through the core of the book.
Part of the problem is within in the clearly identifiable characteristics of each model. I feel that if you do not fit or can tick off the traits identifiable for the particular model, you are inclined to neglect that chapter. This for me is a shame, as, many readers may do as I wanted to do and skip chapters, which if given the chance could enhance leadership skills.
There are aspects of the book I thoroughly enjoyed, specifically the real life examples woven into each chapter. These tales anchored the lessons, (which although very American, are valid entertaining) firmly within your psyche.
However, the major disappointment for me is that this book is extremely masculine. The authors missed a trick not recognising and acknowledging female leaders within the ‘Four Frame Models’. With business women like: Arianna Huffington, Sheryl Sandberg, Oprah Winfrey and Indra Nooyi, to name a few, it would have been great to hear some of their tales and examples of successful leaders.
That said; I found this book very helpful.
Star rating:
3/5
