'A Leader’s Guide to Influence: How to Use Soft Skills to Get Hard' by Mike Brent & Fiona Elsa Dent
This book is written by two lecturers from Ashridge and is probably written in the kind of style you would expect. The authors have had worldwide experience in the Leadership and Coaching arenas and therefore bring a deal of credibility to the party. The format of the book makes it easy to read and the information is potentially very helpful but I didn’t find the book inspirational in the way that some other reviewers have.
I find the use of words like ‘techniques’ when dealing with other people to be a bit of a turn-off as it seems to sound as if we should be manipulative in a none-too-ethical way. In fairness, the authors do make a point of emphasising that we do need to be authentic in our relationships but it felt a bit as if it would all be a little manufactured if we followed some of the ‘tips’.
There are one or two basic errors such as suggesting that our emotions lead us to think in a certain way but overall, as a starter book on Leadership, it’s worth reading – however, don’t pay £14.99 for it.
Richard Jackson, co-founder of Mancroft