Overview

A new definition of "kindness" for business leaders who want to accomplish true organizational greatness.

Leadershipnow.com / The Best Leadership Books of 2008

By now, many leaders have realized that when it comes to business, nice guys often finish first. Old-fashioned images of corporate callousness and greed have been replaced by a gentler, more human conception of great leadership. But how does one define “kindness” in the context of business? And what is the best way to “use” this deceptively complex notion as a guiding principle to lead an organization successfully into the future?

Far from presenting a naive idea of kindness, this eye-opening book identifies the surprising attributes successful “kind” leaders share. Readers will learn how they can use kindness to:

• motivate employees, committee members, and others

• recognize unique talents while nurturing all employees

• establish a supportive environment

• spur continuous organizational growth

• adapt to change

• stimulate calculated “stretch” and risk-taking

• prepare the next generation of leaders

This realistic book shows leaders how they can use sincerity, honesty, and respect for the good of their organizations.

About the Authors

William F. Baker (New York, NY) is Chief Executive Officer of Educational Broad­casting Corp (Thirteen/WNET and WL1W21). He is Executive in Residence at Columbia University Business School, and University Professor at Fordham.

Michael O'Malley (Hamden, CT) is Executive Editor for Business, Economics, and Law at Yale University Press, and adjunct professor at Columbia University Business School.