One of the most sought after skills in the professional world is, undoubtedly, that of the leadership. There are quite a few theories and an array of concepts on the development of this particular skill. Obviously, a successful leadership could either be God-given, or obtained through experience and self-training, or even better, a combination of both. As a Project Manager, and, honestly, not a natural born leader, I have to continuously seek for the best educational sources.
A compilation of some of the most applicable testimonies, which I chose to outline below, helps me to keep adding to my soft skill base. Just like in any discipline, establishing a solid theoretical foundation, is one of the main keys to continuously applying these principles to my professional environment, through trial and error. On the other hand, a successful leadership is not a precise science, it is an art. The question of how to apply this art is something we could attempt to develop. Here are some of my motivational references:
1. Leadership 101 by John C. Maxwell, Sean Runnette.
“No matter who you are, you can lead – and lead well.” The book shows how to follow the vision, and help others to envision, and then follow you. How crucial it is to be able to lead by example. How to surround yourself, as a leader, with a team of trustworthy individuals.
2. Lincoln on Leadership: Executive Strategies f…by Donald T. Phillips
An insightful storyline about the most influential historical leader of all times, Abraham Lincoln. It focuses on the analysis of his leadership skills, his journey from one of the least popular leaders, to one of the most influential figures of the American and world history. The author’s perspective zooms on the leadership skills that Abraham Lincoln possessed: don’t make orders, but build relationships, make recommendations.
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3. Leadership Is an Art by Max Depree.
Another interesting piece! The author is one of the most successful leaders in a furniture business, who made Fortune 25! Some of the key points of his leadership success are through mentoring, empowering others. How can we project our own personal success, so that people could relate and follow? It doesn’t come to most overnight. It’s a steady uphill battle, a continuous education on how to apply these skills.
4. Monday Morning Leadership: 8 Mentoring Sessions You Can’t Afford To Miss by David Cottrell.
“You have to escape the management plan and get in touch with your people,” a quite relational approach on leadership. This piece elaborates on Cornerstone Institute Principles of Leadership, a motivational theory. The book is concise and encouraging.
5. How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
As all of Carnegie’s work, written almost a century ago, this piece is still a very relevant motivational source. It focuses on gradually developing and increasing your ability to empower and influence others.
What are your favorite Leadership books? Please share in the comments below…
Article written and contributed by Kamilla Kay, PMP. She can be contacted via email at: kamillabk@hotmail.com
From: http://ping.fm/K1bpN
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