Written by Shirin Ahmadpour
Sometimes we question what we are doing and how we are doing as a leader. If you feel a little unsure about your leadership role or are in need of some inspiration then “Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us,” by Seth Godin is for you.
Here’s a book that does not stun you with professional sounding jargon, but instead talks directly to the reader in a way that makes you think creatively and entice you to be a better leader. Godin makes you imagine different scenarios and if you find yourself in the same boat, he’ll give you suggestions to make a change.
One of my favorite examples is how he discusses the employees of a balloon factory. The people who work in a balloon factory tip-toe around. They are overly careful and even more so, they are afraid that if they push too many pins they will fail and lose their jobs. Good leaders are not afraid of popping balloons and they ensure their followers that they will not face extreme punishment for popping a balloon. Being comfortable in your role as a leader and your role as a follower creates the ideal environment for success. Failed attempts do not create nor fuel failure, fear does. Though it is understandable to have fear going into various situations, it is not acceptable to refuse to overcome that fear and let it take over the task at hand.
The book is filled with great quotes to takeaway and is easily memorable. I highly recommend this book to all leaders and those who may not think they’re leaders just yet. “Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us,” is an excellent book on leadership that helps one discover the type of leader you are and the type you can become. Do not just lead people, lead a tribe.
Shirin,
This book sounds very interesting because of the way it is written. It sounds like it isn’t a typical leadership book that just has a list of things to do to be a better leader. Instead it seems like Godin puts you in the situation and talks you through it and really tries to get the leader within you to come out. I also liked that the book seemed to be one big fridge quote. I haven’t read the book, but I’m putting it on my list to read!