Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership

by Christie Smith, Kelly Monahan

National Bestseller

Discover and embrace the future of human-powered leadership

In an era where the foundational elements of business are being disrupted, How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership emerges as a crucial guide for leaders navigating the profound changes reshaping industries and markets worldwide. This book, penned by a team of seasoned business and leadership strategists, offers a radical and necessary perspective on management transformation, emphasizing the importance of human-centered leadership in meeting the full potential of the technology age.

The authors explain how

Unlock radical management transformation, demonstrating how to lead with humanity at the forefront, addressing changing attitudes about labor, management, and organizational goals in a way that fosters growth and innovation Adapt to the new business landscape, leveraging insights about managing distributed teams and incorporating emerging technologies like generative AI without losing the essence of your organization's talent and skills Achieve immediate, impactful change with realistic strategies and actionable techniques backed by thousands of hours of original research and practical experience Improve the way we live by revolutionizing the way we work Essential is not just a book; it's a roadmap for 21st-century leaders facing existential challenges in a rapidly evolving global market. Perfect for managers, executives, directors, founders, entrepreneurs, and any business leader aiming to steer their organization towards success in a transformed landscape, this book provides the tools and insights needed to lead with conviction and humanity.

Whether you're looking to redefine your leadership approach, adapt to the transformed market, or leave a lasting legacy, this book offers a compelling case for why now is the time for a leadership reinvention. Dive into this essential resource and begin your journey towards leading with greater impact and humanity in the business world of today and tomorrow.

Genres: Business, Artificial Intelligence, Psychology

176 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2025

About the author

Dr. Christie Smith has over 35 years of experience advising the C-Suite of Fortune 500 companies. Previously, she was the Global Head of Talent and Organization at Accenture, Managing Principal at Deloitte, and Global Vice President for Inclusion and Diversity at Apple. She is a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader on business strategy, leadership and culture, DEI, people analytics, and the impact of workforce technologies and AI.

Reviews

[Steve Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have selected this book as Stevo's Business Book of the Week for the week of 1/19, as it stands heads above other recently published books on this topic.

[Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the day after the 2025 inauguration and I'm doing a lot of reflecting about the status quo and the future of the world – from humans to the businesses we operate.

All I can say is this book offers a compelling vision for the future of leadership, expertly weaving together historical context, current challenges, and practical solutions for creating human-centered workplaces.

Smith and Monahan make a convincing case that the old command-and-control leadership models are obsolete, offering instead a thoughtful roadmap for leaders who want to build more resilient, productive organizations by putting people first - not just as a moral imperative, but as a critical business strategy for surviving in our rapidly evolving world.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christie Smith and Kelly Monahan deeply understand the existential crisis of faith in leadership across institutions. Their research and conclusions are not just data-driven; they feel archeologically grounded, uncovering truths that resonate through time. Restoring trust, recommitting to the frameworks of 20th-century management pioneers, and prioritizing humanitarian values alongside vision and results offer a blueprint for leadership that meets the demands of today.

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christie Smith and Kelly Monahan's "Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership" is a groundbreaking exploration of leadership in the modern era. The authors delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by distributed teams, the rise of generative AI, and the evolving global workforce, offering a compelling vision for human-powered leadership.

The book is meticulously researched and thoughtfully structured, providing readers with a blend of theoretical insights and practical strategies. Smith and Monahan emphasize the importance of empathy, adaptability, and innovation in navigating the complexities of today's business landscape. Their writing is both accessible and profound, making complex concepts easy to grasp while encouraging deep reflection.

One of the book's standout features is its balanced approach to technology. While the authors celebrate the transformative potential of generative AI, they also underscore the irreplaceable value of human creativity, intuition, and connection. This dual perspective ensures the book resonates with a diverse audience, from tech enthusiasts to those cautious about automation's impact on the workforce.

The actionable advice provided throughout the book is another highlight. Smith and Monahan equip readers with tools and techniques to implement human-centered leadership practices, making *Essential* a valuable resource for leaders at all levels. Whether you're managing a small team or steering a multinational organization, the insights offered in this book are both relevant and transformative.

"Essential" is a must-read for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and humanity in a rapidly changing world. Smith and Monahan's vision of leadership is not only inspiring but also achievable, offering a roadmap for creating organizations that are innovative, inclusive, and resilient. This book is a testament to the power of human connection and creativity in shaping the future of work.

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Every leader should read this book! So much is changing in the corporate world these days and the topics discussed are highly relevant. I had the opportunity to hear Smith speak at the National Women’s Conference and her words resonated with me so much I was compelled to read the book. It’s time to put people at the heart of business. In the same way the old phrase “Happy wife = happy life” has meaning in its core (yet replace wife with any family member (especially kids)), so could it apply to “happy, respected workers = productive and efficient business”. Not as catchy without the rhyme but it’s the heart of the theories and actions put forth in Essential.

[Gabriela Burlacu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great and thoughtful exploration of why and how leadership needs to adapt to better engage and manage workers in a changing world of work! As a knowledge worker myself I know command-and-control leadership styles don’t feel right, and this book beautifully articulates through research, examples, and insights why that is. There are lots of practical actions as well for leaders who want to adopt more human-centered approaches but are not quite sure where to start. A must-read for any current or aspiring business leader.

[Anna Drabik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christie Smith's Essential masterfully blends research and storytelling to deliver deeply insightful lessons on leadership and emotional maturity. By seamlessly combining data-driven insights with compelling narratives, Essential ensures its teachings resonate and stick. It's also packed with practical advice, making it a mini-course in human-powered leadership. This book is a must-read for any leader looking to navigate the future with humanity, wisdom, and authenticity.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A natural part of career progression is assuming leadership responsibilities, yet when we reach these roles, we discover that technical expertise doesn't always translate to leadership prowess. This book fills that gap, providing a much-needed manual for every one of us who is expected to lead without ever being taught how. This book is also super timely, especially as younger generations enter the workforce with higher expectations for authentic and effective leadership. Highly recommend!

[Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well researched, easy to follow along and relate to, and the final chapter had some good takeaways. I’m only giving it 3 stars as I wish there was more “here’s how” throughout the book. It was like 8 chapters of research on the why and the background, but I was left until chapter 9 before I felt like we got to the “How”.

[Fabio Arcanjo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given it a 4 stars rating as I believe the book takes too long to get going - when it does, it’s certainly a well worth read. It summarizes key skills and areas of focus as leaders try to navigate the current environment - and provides well built critiques to actions such as RTO mandates as universal solutions. It’s a great book, well written.

[Ivan Rusev · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yet another business book full of business stories we could read elsewhere.

[PottWab Regional Library]

A

[Jake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read. I’m not big on business and can’t say I understand it all that well, but I enjoyed the dives into the history throughout the book and really enjoyed the lessons the book taught me.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of Essential, and it’s a remarkable playbook for leaders to get back in touch with what really matters in our organizations. It will be so helpful for leaders as they navigate an increasingly turbulent and complex landscape. Thank you for this resource.