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The Techniques of Inner Leadership: Making Inner Leadership Work

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STERN'S MANAGEMENT REVIEW FINDS this a book that places leadership in a new light. According to the author, inner leadership consists of leading from the middle of the organization, generating the vital energy that drives organizational dynamics, in contrast to top leadership. The book explores the characteristics of inner leadership, which relies on the relationship with followers and on inspiration, not motivation.

Some key factors in the psycho-dynamics of inner leadership include: mutual interactive trust; internalized feelings of caring, respect, and enjoyment in working with others; willingness to serve the needs of followers; a quest for problem-finding in contrast to problem solving; and in general, a building of deep connections with others. These qualities stand in contrast to reliance on the formal power of authority-a hallmark of top leadership. The book goes into 21 techniques of inner leadership, devoting a chapter to each.

This book is rich with insights and ideas. As consultants in organization and compensation (founding partners of Stern & Associates, as well as editors of Stern's Management Review Online), we find Fairholm's book raises some key questions: Do organizations recognize the role and value of the vital leadership in the middle? Do they know how to select and develop inner leaders? Can they measure their performance and motivate and reward them? Intentionally or not, book provides a framework for addressing these questions.

Chapters end with discussion issues and questions, and developmental activities. Fairholm treats his subject matter with attention to details and nuances. 308 pp.