Book Review: "The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" by Oren Harari

Being a military brat during the period in which Colin Powell was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Powell was a familiar name around our household. Having watched him during the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, I grew impressed with his composure as Secretary of State during those difficult times. If ever there was a man who might have something important to say about leadership, it is Powell.

So, it was with great enthusiasm that I set out to read "The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" by Oren Harari. Overall, the book does a competent job of outlining the principles Powell leads by. Oren writes clearly and manages to make Powell's leadership principles (which often relate to military specifics) accessible to business leaders. If, like me, you are a person whttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifho respects General Powell and wish to view leadership from his prospective, this book is a good start.

The book is divided into three parts. Part I, "Powell as Provocateur," centers on how Powell acts as an agent of change. Harari paints a picture of Powell as flexible, empowering, and this perhaps contradicts the stereotype of rigid military leaders. Part II, "Powell on Strategy and Execution," describes how Powell trusts those people serving under him and relies on people instead of plans.

However, I found Part III to be the most interesting. In "The Powell Character," we learn more about who General Powell was as a person, and how his personality affects how he leads. Harari describes Powell's leadership style as heavy on personal integrity and character. But, not only does Powell expect it of his soldiers and staff, he personifies these characteristics. Additionally, Powell encourages staff to live and play hard, to be devoted family members, and to have a life outside the mission.

"The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" succeeds in expanding Harari's article "Quotations From Chairman Powell: A Leadership Primer," which is included as an appendices. Having read that article, I think most folks will be satisfied by just reading that article. If, however, you are sincerely interested in Powell, the whole book can serve to indulge your interests.

I give it 3.5 of 5 stars.