The Human Side of Leadership: Navigating Emotions at Work

By Rick Ginsberg, Timothy Gray Davies
Publisher: Praeger Publishers
Number Of Pages: 160
Publication Date: 2007-07-30
ISBN-10 / ASIN: 0275991326
ISBN-13 / EAN: 9780275991326
Binding: Hardcover

Any management decision that involves people (in other words, any management decision) has an emotional component. Given the ubiquitous nature of emotions as part of the human psyche, one would expect leaders and managers to be well-trained and equipped to deal with emotions in the workplace. On the contrary, the emotional side of being a leader is largely ignored in formal and informal training programs, often resulting in miscommunication between managers and their employees, and contributing to workplace stress. Though concepts such as "emotional intelligence" have entered the mainstream, systematic development of skills in managing emotions in the workplace have yet to emerge, and are often relegated to the "touchy-feely" end of the spectrum. This book argues that without acknowledging the powerful influence of emotions--their own as well as others'--managers are doomed to fail in their interactions with employees, peers, and bosses, and ultimately in their ability to manage and lead effectively. Ginsberg and Davies draw from primary research, including interviews with managers in a variety of settings, to introduce readers to the "emotional side of leadership" and demonstrate its positive effects on individual and organizational performance. They present practical tools for honing emotional navigation skills and applying them toward decision making, problem solving, communication, feedback, and performance improvement.
Summary: Highly Recommended to Deal with Emotional Work SituationsRating: 5
It is not enough to have the technical skills and knowledge to be an effective manager and/or leader. The most difficult challenges are often the ones related to dealing with emotionally-laden situations with colleagues, supervisees, bosses, and "customers" (which can be students in an academic setting). This book provides guidance for dealing with these situations and includes lots of interesing examples from various types of work settings. I found it really helpful to me as a leader/manager. I have been able to put several of the suggestions to good use. The book was also very interesting to read.