Adam Grant, the New York Times best-selling author of Give and Take, Originals, and Option B, went to the World Economic Forum in Davos to find out what the world’s most visionary and influential leaders had to say about power and its transformative role in our society.
What he learned there may surprise you.
Grant delivers a heady mix of captivating interviews, compelling data, and his unmistakably incisive and actionable analysis to give us a crash course in power that both inspires and instructs from the front lines.
In interviews with two dozen CEOs, start-up founders, top scientists, and thought leaders—including top executives at Google, GM, Slack, and Goldman Sachs, the CEO of the Gates Foundation, and NASA’s former chief scientist—he shares his hard-earned insights on how to succeed in this new era of hyper-linked power.
The paradox of power: The importance of balancing good and bad
Power can be both good and bad. While power can enable individuals to achieve great things, it can also be a corrupting influence that leads to selfish behavior and abuse.
The key to using power effectively is to balance the desire for achievement and success with a concern for the well-being of others. Leaders who seek power for the right reasons – to make a positive impact on the world – are more likely to use it effectively and responsibly.
The Power of Empathy: How Understanding Others Can Help You Lead More Effectively
Empathy is a key trait of effective leaders. Leaders who are able to understand the perspectives and emotions of others are more likely to inspire trust and loyalty among their followers.
Empathy also helps leaders make better decisions and create a culture of collaboration and teamwork.
Strategic thinking: how to plan for long-term success
Strategic thinking is crucial to achieving long-term success. Leaders who are able to think strategically are more likely to anticipate future challenges and opportunities, make informed decisions, and achieve their goals.
Strategic thinking requires a willingness to take risks, a commitment to innovation, and the ability to anticipate and adapt to changing circumstances.
The importance of authenticity: why being true to yourself is key to effective leadership
Authenticity is a key trait of effective leaders. Leaders who are true to themselves and their values are more likely to inspire trust and loyalty among their followers. authenticity also helps leaders make better decisions and create a culture of collaboration and teamwork.
To be authentic, leaders need to be willing to be vulnerable, share their personal experiences and values, and demonstrate a consistent commitment to their beliefs and principles.
The power of networks: how building strong relationships can help you achieve your goals
Building a strong network of contacts is crucial to achieving success. Leaders who cultivate strong relationships with others are more likely to achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.
Effective networking requires a willingness to listen, a commitment to reciprocity, and a willingness to help others without expecting anything in return.
The role of humility in effective leadership
Humility is a key trait of effective leaders. Leaders who acknowledge their limitations, seek input from others, and are willing to admit when they are wrong are more likely to make good decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Leaders who exhibit humility are also more likely to inspire trust and loyalty among their followers.
The power of purpose: why having a clear sense of purpose is key to achieving success
Having a clear sense of purpose is crucial to achieving success. Leaders who have a strong sense of purpose are more likely to stay focused, motivated, and resilient in the face of obstacles and setbacks. A sense of purpose can also inspire others and provide a sense of meaning and fulfillment.
The power of resilience: how to bounce back from setbacks and overcome adversity
Resilience is key to achieving success. Leaders who are able to bounce back from setbacks and overcome adversity are more likely to achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.
Resilience requires a willingness to learn from failure, a positive attitude, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
The power of diversity: how seeking out different viewpoints can lead to better decisions
Seeking out diverse perspectives is key to making good decisions. Leaders who value diverse viewpoints and actively seek out input from people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are more likely to make informed decisions that take into account a range of viewpoints.
Diversity can also foster creativity, innovation, and resilience, making it a key factor in achieving long-term success.
Collaboration is key: the importance of working together to achieve lasting success
Collaboration is crucial to achieving lasting success. Leaders who foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork are more likely to achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world. Effective collaboration requires clear communication, shared goals, and a willingness to compromise and work together toward a common objective.
