I’d like to introduce you to an idea that’s been on my mind for a while. Since July 12th of last year in fact.
I am frequently asked by friends and clients some version of the following question, “I am taking on this new leadership role but have some time before I start - any book recommendations?”
The short answer is yes!
The longer answer is yes, but…
There are hundreds of books about leadership out there, and many great books to recommend. But I always seem to come up empty in the category of give-to-any-leader books that aren’t filled with big aggressive ideas about how people should lead. Writing that engages people on their own terms and makes leadership itself more intelligible — both intellectually and emotionally.
The problem is you may not be notably extreme, or radical, or quiet (all useful books btw). You may feel like an imposter with that “leadership” mantle, or you may just be interested in a bit more information on what leadership is.
If that’s you, I have great news - I just signed a contract to write a new book for you!
That book is Everyday Leadership, and it’s due to my publisher on Feb 1, 2024 [anxiety emoji].
People who lead at every level of an organization benefit from thinking systematically about what leadership is, what leading others requires, and how to do it in a consistent way. They benefit from asking more and better questions. Many of them need a little guidance on what makes teams effective, how to navigate conflict, and how their role will change over time.
In this book, you’ll find useful frameworks, ideas, and techniques - all grounded in scientific research, but presented in accessible, pragmatic language - to help you lead better on a day-to-day basis.
It will be a pointed book. A book that will help you cut through the jargon that shrouds a more realistic conception of what it means to lead other people in work and in life. Leadership is simply a type of human relationship. With a little guidance and encouragement, anyone can learn to unlock the mindset and potential to become an everyday leader.
Also this!
I’m interviewing leaders as a part of this project - if you’re open to speaking to me about your experience as a leader (or know someone I should speak with), just hit reply, comment below, or fill out this form. Thank you!
Congrats on the book contract, Ross! Based on what I read in Career Commons, I'm sure your book will be excellent and successful. If you're ever so inclined, it'd be cool if you'd share a bit about your process for conceiving, developing, and contracting the book. I know that's not everyone's idea of time well spent, but it delivers value to aspiring authors (and, I suppose, is another angle to promote one's book).
A Feb 2024 deadline definitely warrants an anxiety emoji, but we believe in you.