Author(s): Gautam Mukunda

General

Does history make the man, or does the man make history? Since the time of the ancient Greeks, the importance of leaders has been the subject of debate: either they make history or they're trapped by it. But which is it? And how do you know if a leader will make a difference "before" he or she gets the job? In "Indispensable," Harvard Business School professor Gautam Mukunda offers an enticingly fresh look at the forces that come into play when leaders really do make a difference. This book explains "which leaders matter, and when, and why, and what lessons we might take from those who do." The leaders profiled in the book--a mix of historic and modern figures, from Abraham Lincoln and Neville Chamberlain to Jamie Dimon and Judah Folkman--show how, when, and why some leaders have a high impact and can even change the course of history. By identifying and analyzing the hidden patterns of their careers, "Indispensable" sheds new light on how we choose leaders and can identify the best ones. It's a compelling read that places new emphasis on the "filtration" process that potential leaders undergo. "Indispensable" will open your eyes to the importance of high-impact leaders. It will help you as you prepare to choose your next leader--and inspire you in your quest to become one yourself.