Book Review: The Truth About Leadership

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

While the content of leadership may change over time, the fundamental principles, or truths of leadership, do not, well known leadership authors James Kouzes and Barry Posner have written their list of the 10 truths about leadership in their classic book ‘The Truth About Leadership’, published by The Leadership Challenge in 2018.

Kouzes and Posner are amongst the most prolific and well-known leadership authors of the last 30 years. They have written many of the books that now form part of the essential reading for all leaders. Drawing from their extensive consulting engagements, and over one million responses worldwide to their research, their material is based on relevant and up to date examples.

Some of the 10 truths include:

  • Credibility is the foundation of leadership
  • Focusing on the future sets leaders apart
  • You can’t do it alone
  • Trust rules

This is a very orderly and logical book, meaning you can pick and choose areas of most interest if don’t want to read cover to cover. It is also well written and easy to read. The use of current examples makes it easy to relate to and apply to your own setting.

This book should be read by anyone aspiring to or currently in leadership, and is a fantastic book. While it is a few years old, it is a great reminder of the essentials of leadership which never grow old. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Dr Warrick Long, Lecturer at Avondale Business School