Tuesday’s Titles by Julie Ryan

October 2024

Hello, I’m the Deputy Managing Director at Harvest, bringing over thirty years of expertise in Talent Strategy and Development. Throughout my career, I’ve collaborated with hundreds of organizations and partnered with leading global business schools, gaining invaluable insights from numerous thought leaders. My passion for learning is fuelled by great books that delve into real-life dilemmas and offer practical solutions. As a leader, I face challenges just like you, and my extensive library of books and podcasts is my trusted resource. I hope these book summaries inspire and support you on your journey.

Leadership Plain and Simple

by Steve Radcliffe

First, this is not a new book, but it is a book that I return to regularly because it reminds me to keep our work with senior teams and leaders, practical, meaningful and relevant.

The book sets out a straightforward approach which makes it an easy, enjoyable and effective read.

It focuses on three core leadership practices:

1. Future: Be guided by the future you want: Stay focused on your vision and the impact you want to create. The vision is your guiding star for all subsequent actions.
2. Engage: The next step is to engage others in this vision through inspiring storytelling, motivating your own team, building strong relationships and most importantly, the power of good communications.
3. Deliver: Execution is often where we fall down. Turn the vision into reality by setting super clear goals, always maintain focus and ensure accountability through empowerment.

Radcliffe’s framework is full of great examples, stories from organisations and actionable steps – plain and simple.

The Promise That Changes Everything: I Won’t Interrupt You

by Nancy Kline

Like everything in life, it takes practice to get things right, and this book emphasizes the transformative power of listening without interruption. Kline argues that by committing to not interrupt others, we can foster deeper, more meaningful conversations. This approach can significantly enhance communication, learning experiences, and team collaboration.

As with all her books, Kline provides practical steps and real-life stories from her work with clients that really illustrate the power of listening and how it can lead to better personal and professional relationships.

The Promise of no interruption can be a lot more challenging to keep that you think! So, this book is a very useful guide for Learning and Development specialists, such as, trainers and coaches to create more effective and engaging learning experiences for participants.

More generally this book provides practical tools that will help us enhance communication, improve productivity, and build trust.

Worth a read.