Successful change by top management’s power

Mai 25, 2010

Written by two practitioners in the field of consultancy, this quite controversial book addresses the oftentimes tabooed concept of power. The authors argue that half of all change management processes fail due to a lack of adequate leadership.
According to them, the top management level plays the decisive role in conflict resolution within an organisation. Therefore strong executives must not shy away from resolving these conflicts and communicating new strategies forcefully. Furthermore, change management is seen here as an enduring management task, not as a solution only in times of crisis.
The great plus of this guide is its clear thesis drawing a different picture of leadership, one that breaks with the common emphasis on consensus. It is easy to read (in German), yet does not aim at giving in detail advice for the reader to apply.

Oltmanns, T. & Nemeyer, D. (2010). Machtfrage Change. Warum Veränderungsprojekte meist auf Führungsebene scheitern und wie Sie es besser machen. Campus Verlag

Source URL: http://change-centre.org/successful-change-by-top-management%e2%80%99s-power-2/

Positive change by strengthening assertiveness

April 14, 2010

Being more assertive is a useful individual characteristic, yet personal change does not come about that simple. Therefore this well-grounded guide provides practical step-by-step instructions readers can easily implement in their everyday life.
The behaviour change programme presented by the authors is based on a variety of techniques stemming from psychology, communications, speech and theatre acting. It focuses on improved expression of opinion in every kind of personal and professional relationships by strengthening self assurance.
This book’s great plus factor is the introduction of the DESC model (describe, express, specify and consequences). Throughout the chapters readers will find helpful exercises to test their assertiveness, evaluate their progress and transfer the model into their own specific living environment.

Bower, S. & Bower, G. (2004). Asserting yourself: A practical guide for positive change. Cambridge: Da Capo Press.

Source URL: http://change-centre.org/positive-change-by-strengthening-assertiveness/