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Recently, we have seen England's venerable Queen Elizabeth I portrayed in popular movies as both a wise supporting character and powerful leading lady. Now, thanks to historian and author Alan Axelrod, we can not only see the 16th-century monarch as a single woman who turned the fortunes of an entire nation around--we can apply many of the traits and practices of Good Queen Bess to our own business lives. "You can learn that being a leader is being a leader, whether your enterprise is a Renaissance kingdom, a small business, a major corporation, a corporate department, or a three-person work group with a job to do," Axelrod writes in Elizabeth I, CEO. Like other authors who relate the conduct and writings of a historical figure to situations in the modern world (including himself in Patton on Leadership), Axelrod uses Elizabeth's behavior and words to frame a blueprint for corporate survival, personal image building, staff development, control, and--ultimately--success. The author draws 136 pointers from Elzabeth's life, each amplified with lively, germane anecdotes. Among them: "Control the Message, not the Messenger," "No Leader Is a Solo Act," and "Forgive, but Don't Forget." --Howard Rothman
Book Description
Elizabeth I, CEO will attract the leaders of today, the builders of contemporary empires, as well as history-lovers. The life of Elizabeth has much to say to those beginning their climb up the corporate ladder as well those who, having attained the top rung, do not want to slip from it. The queen's long reign offers lessons on: Developing a leadership attitude and image, enhanced by personal dynamism Becoming an effective coach and mentor, skilled at nurturing creativity Manipulating others--subtly and ethically Knowing and anticipating the "enemy" Setting clear goals and motivating others to work to achieve them Most of all, the career of Elizabeth I is an example of vision, of creating vision, of communicating vision, and of realizing vision. Not only did she create loyalty among those nearest her, she met headlong an array of the most daunting challenges any leader has ever faced.
How did Elizabeth meet these challenges, managing not only to stay alive and to keep her imperiled nation afloat, but also to win the intense loyalty of her people and to lead England to greatness? Historians and biographers have offered many explanations. Elizabeth, CEO takes a fresh view, exploring issues that are relevant to leaders--especially business leaders--of today.
