Linda El Awar thinks she has gone through a transformational experience at the Harvard Business School until she joins Google, Inc., where she discovers what it really means to be a leader. She navigates a challenging journey filled with unexpected twists, triumphs, and even heartbreak as she creates her own path at one of the world’s most mysterious sales organizations. Despite her relentless dedication to Google and her determination to achieve her professional goals, Linda does not actually realize what makes the company so special until after she resigns. Only then does she comprehend what is a true leader.
If you're going to read this expecting some never before seen tips on leadership, then think again. Nothing in this book should be new to you, however, it's written in such a way, and because it's so short, it's an enjoyable read. A good leadership manual to refer to in times of trouble. Also reading between the lines, working for Google is not the big party it is proclaimed, petty politics, under performing employees, liars and it seems quite a competitive approach to promotion are all part of the game.
This is an inspiring book about a healthy work environment with positive leadership exhibited by all levels of management. It’s refreshing to read about a company that is exemplifying leadership that empowers its workforce to drive forward. And, Google's stock prices bears out the benefits of strong internal leadership.
Linda’s story is proof that good leadership doesn't simply exist in a case study. I especially enjoyed how the leadership lessons are applicable to a nonprofit, corporate, educational or volunteer situation; all groups can benefit from leadership that inspires, empowers and advances its core mission.
As an MBA myself, I was particularly thrilled to read that a tech company is exhibiting such high EQ - it shows that the soft skills really do matter!
Graduating from Google is a good book with good advice. It definitely gives the reader a different outlook on leadership. Searching for a new job, I would love to find somewhere where I can move up to a leadership position. Helping and inspiring others is a passion of mine. Being from Michigan and having interviews with the GM, I can definitely relate to Linda's background. My fiance is in the process of applying for google right now, hoping he gets in. I really liked reading about google and the environment there.
Other comments: Some of the examples and stories seemed to be repetitive or very generalized. Many of them blended together for me. This can be useful in some cases. In other cases I found myself dragging through the sections.
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I found this book to be inspirational and relatable. The book describes El Awar's journey from business school to becoming a Manager at Google and the challenges she encounters and overcomes along the way. The narrative is fast-paced and compelling - you find yourself rooting for Linda!
But even more valuable are the nuggets of wisdom dispensed at the end of each short chapter. Clear and frequent communications, constant and positive feedback for team members, and proactively managing team dynamics and perceptions are all key to being an effective manager and leader. El Awar expertly weaves together a personal story with practical advice for succeeding in the corporate world.
Those who enjoy books such as Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In or Susan Cain's Quiet: The Power of Introverts will feel similarly about Graduating from Google.
More of a summary of El Awar's own career story and promotions at Google, than an in depth look at the company, their search software, or leadership lessons in climbing a variety of corporate ladders.