The legendary New York Times bestselling tale of top-down change for anyone trying to navigate today's uncertain business seas.
When Captain Abrashoff took over as commander of USS Benfold, it was like a business that had all the latest technology but only some of the productivity. Knowing that responsibility for improving performance rested with him, he realized he had to improve his own leadership skills before he could improve his ship. Within months, he created a crew of confident and inspired problem-solvers eager to take the initiative and responsibility for their actions. The slogan on board became "It's your ship," and Benfold was soon recognized far and wide as a model of naval efficiency. How did Abrashoff do it? Against the backdrop of today's United States Navy, Abrashoff shares his secrets of successful management including:
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"A very interesting leadership book. Not your typical "self-help" management guide. Capt. Abrashoff takes you along on his tour as the Commander of a U.S. Navy Ship and the methods he used to turn it around. He cared more about the people/workers than outdated policies and procedures. An awesome eye opening book. I recommend it for all leaders, in every career field whether military or civilian."
— John (5 out of 5 stars)
“A testament to the author’s understanding of leadership in any large organization…Abrashoff is definitely in command and proud of his story but not lacking in humility and human perspective. Leaders of fast food restaurants and warships alike will be uplifted by his relentless efforts to care for the 310 men and women under his command.”
— AudioFile" I am really enjoying this book very much, great ideas, and a great conversational style! "
— Patti, 2/14/2014" A new twist on well proven leadership practices. Easy and enjoyable read. "
— Aaron, 2/7/2014" Great book on leadership which describes Abrashoff as a commander who chose to allow his men to lead from the front and not the back, no matter what their rank. "
— Marc, 2/7/2014" Some good stuff here, however by the end I was finding some of it hard to believe. Being prior military I thought it started to read much like many of the other performance documents I've read. A good author can make a bad troop look good. "
— Andrew, 2/4/2014" Excellent book on management and leadership. While I do not fully agree with all his methods, it is a must read for all leaders "
— Rob, 1/31/2014" I learned that it's my ship. "
— Jeff, 1/29/2014" One of my favorite leadership books. Perhaps I'm Biased because of my service time but I see so many lessons that apply to my civilian company. Empower your people & meant it and watch what you will get. "
— Angie, 1/17/2014" I heard this guy speak at an EY event; he was awesome. The book essentially re-hashed his speech, and was okay. "
— Jacob, 1/1/2014" Leadership from a different perspective. Not bad, but I've read better leadership books. "
— Clint, 12/30/2013" I found it an arrogant book. A friend of mine served under Abrashoff on the USS Benfold and he was not the type of guy he portrays himself as in the book. Besides that, he takes credit for ideas and methods that were not his but his crew's. "
— Heidi, 12/16/2013" The book is very good. I only gave it three stars because there is a bit of repetition once you get the point "
— Steven, 12/11/2013" Excellent leader, practical, commonsense approach!! "
— Rick, 12/9/2013" Usually management & leadership books are about theories, but this one is different! Author manage to weave a story around his life as a commander of a ship, which is really engaging and fun to read! "
— Shailesh, 11/13/2013" Amazing look at how to successfully build a highly functioning team by listening to each member and making them feel part of the team,) creating ownership for every member. "
— Cindy, 10/23/2013" I was not to impressed. I was recommended this by a client. The philosophies in this inspire rebellion and rule breaking. OK at times, but a little much for me. It is also 90 percent about how great this guy was. "
— Adam, 10/11/2013" Great perspective and a quick read. "
— Kevin, 8/1/2013" This is by far my favorite leadership book! "
— Julie, 5/13/2013" By far one of the best management/leadership books I've ever read. It's become a permanent fixture at my fingertips on my desk. If you lead people, you should read this book. "
— Jim, 4/21/2013" I read this in five minute increments while waiting for things to happen at work. It was okay. I guess the moral of the story is 'join the goddamn navy' or something. "
— Colin, 3/23/2013" Its hard to believe the author actually pulled off all that he claims to have accomplished as CO of a USN destroyer. He is some kind of natural genius at managing people, getting cooperation and exceeding goals. Wow. And very entertaining. "
— Dave, 3/7/2013" Read by the author, the audio book version is incredible. So many lessons that can be applied anywhere, anytime. A++ "
— Wally, 12/18/2012" Second time through. What can I say? I'll take advice from a good looking guy in uniform any day! "
— Nina, 11/6/2012Captain D. Michael Abrashoff is a graduate of the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and was a military assistant to the former Secretary of Defense, the Honorable Dr. William J. Perry. Abrashoff left the Navy in 2001 and became the founder and CEO of Grassroots Leadership, Inc., in Boston. The company is dedicated to helping organizations and individuals deliver the best results in a challenging global environment.