What Makes a Leader Great: Discover the One Key That Makes the Difference

by Russ Crosson

What makes a good leader? Author and CEO of Ron Blue & Co, Russ Crosson knows―and he learned the hard “It’s doubtful that anyone can lead effectively until they’ve been humbled or hurt deeply.” The result of Russ’s humbling experience has taught him that leadership success isn’t about the leader at all. It’s about the mission of the organization, church, business, or even family where the leader serves. It’s about who will replace you when you’re gone. If you’re interested in the true bottom line on leadership success, here is a concise but on-target look at what true leadership is like. Russ emphasizes the need for leaders to think about the legacy of their leadership. There are many books that are “leadership how-tos” or “what to do” books. Here is something a why - to book that will help you succeed in more important ways than you ever imagined.

Genres: Leadership

160 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2014

Reviews

[Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Russ Crosson tells his story of rising up through the ranks of the Christian Financial Advisor company, Ron Blue & Associates.

His book is broken into two parts: "The Leader" and "The Future Leader"

The chapters break down like this:

1. Early thoughts on leadership, thinking it leadership was all about him which led to a demotion in the company

2. Discovering that leadership is more about developing others within the organization to fulfill the vision of the organization

3. Learning that the reason for existence is not 'success' for self but to in your chosen vocation and to die to self.

4. Working sacrificially for others and their development as they and the company move forward or working for 'self success' and promotion is the "Why", living for the Gospel and Jesus is the best "Why".

5. Self or others, is the choice

6. Great leaders act with good character and good values as they face the potholes and challenges

Crosson goes onto describe characteristics of great leaders, what to look for in a successor to the business and gaining freedom by learning to follow, then lead, well. He describes a coaching and transition process that has worked for him ends with some ideas about leaving a mark that lasts.

I thought this is a great playbook for those going into a transition, either assuming more leadership in a company or passing on leadership in a company.

[Matthew Cazee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read for a leader who leads with their own dispensability in mind.