Timeless Leadership Truths

Book excerpt: The origins of business strategy are found in military applications. Generals throughout history faced formidable challenges as they crafted plans to outmaneuver competing forces, acquire territory, and gain power. Similarly, business leaders also look to outmaneuver their rivals as they enter new markets against entrenched competitors, secure a strong market position, and expand their companies’ influence. Although the destructive aspects of war are not present in business, there is a reasonable parallel, such as the bankruptcies of once-mighty companies, which resulted in layoffs of thousands of employees and the closings of numerous plants. Then there was the devastating economic impact and societal disruption that created demoralizing misery among large groups of individuals in once-flourishing areas worldwide. The intent of the book is to improve managers’ ability to think strategically. The further aim is to blend the timeless lessons of military strategy into business plans, with impact in grassroots engagement with customers, as well as the inevitable clashes with competitors. In addition, readers can access a body of knowledge that has endured in written form and practiced by successful leaders for centuries. As such, managers will hold a competitive edge in an evolving digital-age marketplace.