Geeks and Wonders: How Leaders Are Made

Author: Warren Bennis
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-09-01
Features: This is the latest work from leadership guru Warren Bennis, a top-ranking management book on Amazon.com, and a selection from Harvard Business Review! This is Bennis's most influential and engaging book. The stories in the book are captivating, and the wisdom he extracts from them is deeply inspiring. This extraordinary book identifies the characteristics and experiences that help outstanding managers grow into great leaders. Every aspiring leader should have a copy. A stunning idea, an intriguing title, and an indispensable book! Top-ranking management book on Amazon.com, selection from Harvard Business Review, bestseller from The New York Times, Business Week, Time, and Harvard Business Review.
This extraordinary book identifies the characteristics and experiences that help outstanding managers grow into great leaders, and every aspiring leader should have a copy.--Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks
Through interviews with 24 "geeks" and 17 "gurus," the author provides us with a deeper understanding of their inner worlds and offers a profound analysis of their similarities and differences, the eras in which they emerged, their family backgrounds, and personal factors. He also introduces meaningful concepts for forging leaders, such as the "crucible," "adaptability," and "cohesion," which are worth our attention and reflection.
While geeks and gurus differ in many aspects, they share one common trait: a passion for and aptitude for learning. Young geeks immersed themselves in classic literature, revered great figures, admired heroes, followed teachings, obeyed elders, faced hardships without fear, disciplined themselves strictly, took on responsibilities bravely, pursued stability, worked selflessly, and accumulated extensive experience. In contrast, gurus are not bound by books, less inclined to admire heroes, and boldly question the conclusions of the past. They emphasize the balance between work, career, and personal life. They openly declare their desire to build careers and pursue wealth. They avoid classic literature but think deeply and learn from everyone, including family and subordinates. They do not adopt an air of superiority but see themselves as part of the team. Though lacking experience, they have sharp vision and keen insight,.