As this is my first reading recommendation, I start with books that are not new, but rather are at the top of my personal reading list.
Lincoln on Leadership - Executive Strategies for Tough Times
Author: Donald T. Phillips
ISBN: 0-446-51646-5
Christian's Summary: Ever think you have it rough? Imagine the worst thing that can happen in the typical workplace, and it likely doesn't involve a massive loss of life and the dissolution of our country. For Lincoln, he faced unyielding factions, an utter lack of support from his cabinet, and a country inexorably headed toward war. History knows he prevailed, and this book discusses how he rallied a nation, while simultaneously demonstrating that he was perhaps the best leader the United States has ever known.
The Innovator's Dilemma
Author: Clayton M. Christensen
ISBN: 0-06-052199-6
Christian's Summary: This incredible book takes us through the life-cycles of many once great American firms. Christensen discusses how and why once iconic businesses falter, and why their respective failures were not the result of poor management, lack of investment, inadequate skills, or even bad luck. Rather, he points us to the real root cause of the downfall of these titans, and warns us that more firms will fall prey to the Innovator's Dilemma.
It's Your Ship
Author: Captain D. Michael Abrashoff
ISBN: 0-446-52911-7
Christian's Summary: Captain Abrashoff discusses how he transformed an under-performing U.S. destroyer into the "Best Damn Ship in the Navy". He does this by honing his leadership skills, and creating a crew of leaders that were empowered and accountable for their ship's performance. This book gets extra points as it is direct, concise, and relatively brief.
Have you read any of these books? If so, comment.
Christian
