In any job, there will come a time when you are asked to lead other people. But while people are often well trained in the skill set of their particular profession, few people are ever taught how to lead. As such, those first steps into leadership can seem daunting – what do you actually do? How do you really lead? How do you build an effective team? And how do you lead colleagues who used to be your peers?
How to Lead Others aims to convey the basics of leadership in a way that is concise, relevant and practical by breaking down leadership into eight simple lessons:
- Defining the task;
- Effective planning;
- Briefing;
- Controlling;
- Motivating;
- Organizing;
- Evaluating; and
- Leading by example.
Aimed at those who, regardless of industry or business sector, are about take their first steps on the leadership path, or who are at an early stage in their career and realise that leadership responsibilities lie ahead of them,
How to Lead Others is the essential handbook to one of the most important and challenging aspects of professional life.
About the Author
John Adair is one of the world's leading authorities on leadership and leadership development. He is a teacher of leadership and an author of 50 books, which have been translated into 18 languages. Since 2006, he has been Honorary Professor of Leadership at the China Executive Leadership Academy in Shanghai. In 2009, he was appointed Chair of Leadership Studies at the United Nations Staff College in Turin.
Industry Reviews
This book is a must read for anybody in a leadership role. It is entertaining, thought-provoking and clear, providing an invaluable source of guidance from a humble, acutely observant, wise and internationally-renowned scholar. -- Sir Laurie Magnus * Chairman, Windsor Leadership Trust *
Whatever stage you've reached in your personal leadership journey, this book is provocative, challenging and invaluable. Using a skilful blend of observation, analysis, storytelling and exercises, John Adair provokes healthy self-examination. Unlike many books on leadership, it's also a cracking read. -- Christopher Rodrigues CBE * Chairman, British Council *
Management has Peter Drucker. But Leadership has John Adair. With his customary clear style, John Adair has created a simple, easy-to-follow text which will allow any leader from novice to those with years of experience to become more effective. Guidance is through straightforward text, powerful exercises and thorough check-lists. It's a fast read but one with all the depth you need. -- Nicholas Bate * Founder, Strategic Edge; author of 20 books on leadership *
It was from Professor John Adair that I first learned that leadership is a verb. How to Lead Others is full of practical tips and exercises underpinned by John's inimitable wisdom. Read this book reflectively as a source of inspiration and guidance for your own journey as a leader. -- Georgina Noakes * Founder and Director, Brightside *
John has written a practical guide to leadership brought beautifully to life by quotes drawn from many cultures and moments in time. At its heart he reinforces the critical importance for any aspiring leader to relentlessly build shared purpose, to earn respect and always be a leader for good. -- Emma Fitzgerald * Managing Director Wholesale Operations, Severn Trent plc *
Alas today the very concept of leadership has become one of mockery, but John Adair's new book makes it only too clear how important it is to study the qualities that make effective leaders.
Both in civil and military life this is as important as ever, even more so in these uncertain times. How to Lead Others gives straightforward advice and guidance that is well worth the attention of all who find themselves in a commanding position with a need to communicate with a team and inspire them to achieve. -- Colonel John Blashford-Snell * President, The Scientific Exploration Society *
