As the race for our next president heats up the whole question of who and what makes a great leader, is front and center, and gives us all food for thought about what really matters in leadership today.
Many years ago when The Apprentice was full steam ahead, Donald Trump sat behind the big desk in the boardroom, pointed his finger week after week and said, "You're fired."
Those two words can bring fear to the strongest of us. Who hasn't had a dream about being in that awful, compromising situation when you are told you are no longer needed or wanted?
Those words are so adrenaline filled that Mr. Trump attempted to trademark them. His request was denied because there is a board game that sounds too similar, called "You're Hired."
Thus, all of you in positions of leadership, relax. You can still use those words when needed, they are still in the free market. Remember, use them wisely!
I was envisioning The Donald as President, making the White House into a reality show like the film The Truman Show with Jim Carey from years ago. The vision was unnerving to say the least. Since Trump is a front-runner at the moment I decided, as a concerned citizen I needed to make a contribution to our country.
Here are some books that underline the importance of leadership he may want to take a look at:
- Leaders Eat Last, by Simon Sinek: addresses the constant tension about money and meaning and shows that you can be wealthy and make the world a better place.
- It's Not All About Me, by Robin Dreeke: there is a better way than just pointing a finger and saying "you're fired." It is about relationship building and putting people at ease to become the best they can be.
- Long Walk to Freedom, by Nelson Mandela: deep and honest look at a man, through his own words. He was one of the great moral and political leaders of our times.
- The Servant, by James Hunter: shows the difference between managing things and leading people. Underlying focus is on building relationships and listening.
- The Emperor's Handbook, by Marcus Aurelius: he ruled the Roman Empire at its height and yet was never corrupted by the absolute power he held.
- Geronimo, by Mike Leach: about this mighty Apache leader who used the circumstances he was faced with to create a powerful team to go against all odds. (Interestingly, I see the Mr. Trump has endorsed this book.)
Now we all know in this day and age, controversy sells. It is enticing, exhilarating and exciting. And, it makes for good television, good tweets, and possibly more votes.
Yet, a steady diet of controversy is like being on a diet of sugar and carbs while our bodies are screaming out for some protein.
Therefore the last book on the list is a classic that I think should be required reading in schools, in offices, in boardrooms, and on the campaign trail.
- How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie: he teaches effective communication that leaves people feeling valued and not manipulated. Ya think John McCain would like to get a copy of Carnegie's book in Trump's hands?
Let me know what your favorites are and we can get a list to all the candidates as well as the leaders in all companies around the world.
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