On Becoming a Leader

Business consultant and University of Southern California professor of business administration, Bennis here deplores what he considers a dearth of leadership in the world. Although he provides solid, practical guidance in how to fill this vacuum, his philosophically and psychologically rich volume seeks primarily to define leadership--which, in his view, requires self-knowledge and clear personal goals. Leaders in widely diverse areas--represented by television producer Norman Lear, AIDS researcher Mathilde Krim, CEO John Sculley and feminist Gloria Steinem--all share, contends Bennis, the ability to unite people in a common purpose. The curiosity of leaders, their faith in an ``inner voice'' and success in seizing control of their lives distinguish them from mere managers. But while a leader may demonstrate talent, the author observes that its fulfillment depends largely on organizational response to the challenge. 75,000 first printing; major ad/promo; author tour. (Oct.)