Description
Book SynopsisChallenging traditional ways of thinking, leading, and managing based on cutting-edge research and real-world examples, this book provides an insightful and accessible perspective for leaders and managers in the 21st century who seek to become more effective in an increasingly uncertain and complex world which limits their ability to get results.
Just how significant this is has become all too evident in the Covid-19 pandemic. Many books have been written to address these leadership and management challenges, but they are based on the premise that there are ways to simplify, organise, and control what is going on in the workplace. In our complex world this is not possible, and there are no magic tools and techniques that will ensure success. This book explains why and offers an alternative approach, incorporating social theory and the sciences of uncertainty, written in plain English by a leader with over 40 years of experience in the private, not-for-profit, and fe
Trade Review
"I wish this book had been available when I was new to management. It is a must-read guide to ideas and concepts for leaders, with practical tips for deploying them."
Michael Wernick, Jarislowsky Chair in Public Sector Management, University of Ottawa; 23rd Clerk of the Privy Council
"This book is timely. Business, policy makers, and civil society must adopt management practices that address today’s complex issues inclusively, holistically, and sustainably, as indigenous peoples are trying to teach us. Sara presents a new perspective on how we can move our country forward."
Annette Verschuren, O.C., Chair and CEO, NRStor Inc.
"Today’s leaders face highly complex and fast paced decision-making environments. Sara’s readable and informative review of leading-edge research from the University of Hertfordshire can help them to respond more effectively to the challenge of uncertain times."
Hon. Scott Brison, Vice-Chair Investment and Corporate Banking, BMO Capital Markets
"This is the kind of book I want to keep on my desk. Each chapter includes terrific questions to help the reader improve their management practice in a complex world."
Kim Brooks, President, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada
Table of ContentsIntroduction. Part 1 – Managing in a Complex World. Chapter 1 – Why is Our World So F&*$#@%! Difficult? Chapter 2 – Taking a Social Perspective on Management. Part 2: Key Implications of Complexity Management. Chapter 3 – We Need To Be Both Emotionally Involved and Detached. Chapter 4 – Interdependence Changes Everything. Chapter 5 – Trust and Consequences. Chapter 6 – Habitus: The Way We Do Things Around Here. Part 3: Into the Weeds With Metrics and Meetings. Chapter 7 – Why Metrics Are Not Always Your Friend. Chapter 8 – Meetings, Meetings, Bloody Meetings. Part 4: Reflections and a Challenge. Chapter 9 – So, What Now? Bibliography.
