Comments on: Marshall Goldsmith’s Succession: Are You Ready (2009) Harvard Business Press

By: TimAsay

TimAsay — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:09:38 +0000

I agree with all of Dennis’ observations and yes it was an enjoyable read. Bottom line; good common sense for the leader truly committed to best long term outcomes for their organization and its members. So, in essence, it is addressed to the “good guys/gals.”

CEOs/leaders committed to power-mongering, self-serving, egocentric rule need not apply for Marshall’s wisdom unless they are ready to change. To paraphrase some of Marshall’s message; leadership is not about the leader, its about the stakeholders. In my take the stakeholders are not just direct followers/employees/customers etc., but human society at large as well.

It seems unfortunate to me that Marshall’s message may only be heard by the self-selected. We would do well to include it in, “How to be a good human 101.”

By: Dennis Doverspike

Dennis Doverspike — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:25:55 +0000

I would like to add that one of the reasons i reviewed this book is that I feel there is a lack of literature on the important topic of workforce and succession planning. I believe this book does fill a gap in the literature and I have already recommended the book to others interested in the topic.

By: Marshall Goldsmith

Marshall Goldsmith — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:18:14 +0000

Thank you for this very thoughtful review!
I have never done a small book like this before. It was a challenge. It has the ‘plus’ and ‘minus’ factors that you suggest – but I am glad that I did it!
I agree with you comments.