Stephen Covey, Principle-Centred Leadership (1992)
American expert in personal development and leadership (pictured right) who died in 2012.
See also...
Stephen Covey in the Management Gurus section.
Book summary
Characteristics of principle-centred leaders
Principle-centred leaders:
- inspire trust (because of character, principles, trust in others and
sensitivity)
- are continually learning.
- are service-oriented (seeing life as a mission to
serve others).
- radiate positive energy with optimism and enthusiasm.
- believe in other people and their potential (with compassion, forgiveness and
encouragement).
- lead balanced lives (between work and leisure).
- see life as an adventure with passion about life and
people.
- achieve self-renewal – by regularly developing the four sides of their personality
(physical, mental, emotional and spiritual).
- are synergetic – change catalysts who empower others (see below) to make
creative improvements
These attributes come from four interdependent factors:
- security (based on self-esteem).
- guidance (principles, standards and conscience).
- wisdom (knowledge applied to life’s problems).
- power (the strength and courage to act).
Empowerment
Empowerment (of employees) is dependent on:
- practices (what to do) being reinforced by principles (the
reasons for doing it).
- people’s capacity (character and skill) to take responsibility for their work.
- support from the organization’s structure and
systems.
- mutual trust between management and employees.
Key quote on business success
Trust - or the lack of it - is at the root of success or failure in relationships and in the bottom-line results
of business.
Key quote on leadership and management
The only way to treat people is how you want them to treat you.
Key quote on
ethics
Correct principles are like compasses: they are always pointing the way.
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