Stan Slap’s new book, “Bury My Heart At Conference Room B: The Unbeatable Impact Of Truly Committed Managers,” advocates that we need to make our companies a safe place for everyone, especially our managers, to give emotional commitment. That is a very important message.
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend that you read this book. Stan’s message is indeed important, and there are sections of this book that contain some great advice, but I did not enjoy reading this book. Honestly, I could not stop thinking as I read “what a mess!” Stan’s shameless self-promotion in this book was very distracting to me. He talks way to much about how great his program is before he ever really gets specific about what it is. It wasn’t until chapter 10, page 96, that I finally wrote the word “better” in my copy of the book, which by the way I received free of charge from the publicist. In all fairness to Stan, at the start of chapter 11 on page 115 I wrote “even better.”
Since there is really nothing in this book that has not been said by others previously, I think there are better new books that merit your time and attention. In my “related posts” section at the end of this review, I’ll suggest a few good alternatives.
I really am very sorry I can’t recommend this book, because I can tell Stan’s heart was in the right place, and it’s a place that I agree with. I’m going to let Stan end this review on a very positive note by quoting one of my favorite sections of the book:
Here is what you need to know most about leadership: Lead your own life first. The only thing in this world that will dependably happen from the top down is the digging of your grave. You’re waiting for leadership to happen to you? Leadership happens to you as soon as you understand your own values and understand how to enroll other in supporting them. Instead of waiting for a leader you can believe in, try this: Become a leader you can believe in. The sooner you start to practice leadership, the sooner you personal values will start to be realized. So what are you waiting for? (p. 114).
Well said, Stan. I wish you continued success with your program and your book.
Related Posts:
Employees First, Customers Second: My Review
Good Boss, Bad Boss: How To Be The Best And Learn From The Worst. My Review
Review Of Open Leadership: How Social Technology Can Transform The Way You Lead
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Bret:
Thanks for your honest feedback on this book. I work with Stan directly so I am certainly a bit biased but I think the book delivered a tremendous amount of value and insight for managers and leaders. I personally liked the format as it was dramatically different in layout than the “typical” business book I’ve read lately (and I read a lot). From the feedback we are getting, such as the CEO of 800CEORead who reads dozens of business books each month as well, many are finding great value in it too. No doubt that each of us resonates with different things.
For me, there are very few “new” truths out there but it’s in how these truths are told and applied that make the difference. What I did like about Stan’s book was that it isn’t theoretical. It’s not based on some guys “opinion” but rather years of actual implementation in the corporate settings of major organizations. It’s helped me unlock several “ah ha” moments that will no doubt have a great impact on the way I lead and on those who I lead.
All that said, varied opinions are what make the world a great place. We’re each entitled to our own. Thankful for yours and for coming across your blog. I hope some aspect of Stan’s message resonated and will help you in some way.
Daniel
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Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 9th, 2010 at 8:31 am
Welcome, Daniel! I’m glad you took the time to right this so readers can have a different opinion. My opinion is by no means the best one – it’s simply mine. I will agree with you it is not your typical business book and the format was radically different. I think that really became a strength of the book in chapters 10 and 11. As I acknowledged, I totally buy Stan’s message – it’s a great one – but for me the book just did not work even though I get and agree with his message. Thanks, Daniel! Bret
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I agree with your conclusion but differ on some of the reasons…
Yes, it is a mess – where was the editing?
There are a number of beautifully written and compelling ideas but you have to really search for them.
However, what you interpreted as shameless self-promotion I believe was necessary to validate a process that is poorly presented. The examples were the only thing that kept me reading to see if I could discern exactly what they did that had such an impact on these organizations.
He delivers a powerful message (if you can slog through) about values and what it means to fully live them. I particularly liked his interpretation of family as a value. Most people who have that value see their families as separate from work. He reinterprets that to include his employees as family, offering to them a vision of a workplace where they all support each other and communicate openly. I think that is unique.
I imagine most managers and executives will give up on the book and call Slap to have his firm deliver the Bury My Heart process in person. Maybe that’s the point.
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Bret L. Simmons Reply:
September 23rd, 2010 at 6:50 pm
Welcome, Marie! I really appreciate you providing perspective to my comments. I concur with you that his message is a very good one, and you summarize it well. Thanks! Bret
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