The Leadership Mind Switch: Rethinking How We Lead in the New World of Work

Executive coach Benton and executive Wright-Ford provide a primer for leadership during the “fourth industrial revolution” in this cheerful but fluffy leadership guide. The authors aim to help readers who are reaching new stages in their careers, managing job transitions, or simply looking to hone their leadership skills. Based on hundreds of interviews with both up-and-coming and established leaders, they concluded that leaders need to make a “mind switch” if they are to successfully manage a rapidly changing workforce. This solid premise falters in the execution. Readers are encouraged to focus on four qualities—trust, confidence, enlightenment, and tenacity—and to back up these personal qualities with corresponding behaviors. The authors are at their best when presenting concrete and practical advice on topics such as the ups and downs of being a leader, the basic responsibilities of leadership, and ways to address feedback and rewards. But there’s just not a lot new here. This is a booklong exhortation for leaders to follow the Golden Rule in their organizations, and the focus on the emotional—finding ways to be fulfilled and happy, not just professionally or financially successful—further muddies the waters. This is a warm but lackluster addition to the leadership advice genre. (June)