True
leaders are rare. They possess a complex set of skills and, more
importantly, the ability to lead diverse groups of people toward a
common goal or ideal. There is also direction given to
organizations on how to provide the structure for successful
leadership with mission- and value-driven employees.

The first thing we examine in MEASURE OF A LEADER is leadership,
its definition and several pertinent facts. "We contend that the
leader's role is to establish the conditions under which all
performers will choose to execute the mission, vision, and values
of the organization." An effective leader will impact their
followers well beyond bottom line profits or sales. This book cuts
to the basic premises of organizational leadership, power and the
behaviors inherent in each.

Creating discretionary behavior is a very difficult task for
managers in a highly structured environment. "Discretionary
behavior is the product of positive reinforcement. It is the
behavior which a person could do if they choose." We all know
co-workers who simply have a stronger work ethic, better
organizational skills, or higher production rates, based on their
attitude about their job and work environment. MEASURE OF A LEADER
focuses on the meaning and importance of behaviors. These
definitions and examples examine the behaviors created by strong
and weak managers and leaders. Also, the results created by these
behaviors in organizations are discussed. 

"The characteristics of leadership are not necessarily those of an
effective manager. Leadership is concerned with getting people to
want the reinforcers to be found in the behavior asked for;
management is concerned with the delivery of reinforcement for the
behaviors when they occur." Management focused on behaviors vs.
results will create an environment where everyday successes are
celebrated. The net worth of productive employees is integral to
the success of the organization. When success is measured only by
bottom-line results, behaviors are created that can seriously
undermine the mission, vision and values of the organization.

Aubrey and James Daniels have written what is clearly the most
in-depth management/leadership book I have read to date. It is
complex yet written in a way that allows readers to capture the
nuances of their theories. There are enough examples sprinkled
throughout to solidify the theories presented. The most important
lessons are two-fold. 1. Understand the organization, their
mission, vision and values; and 2. Do what you say and say what you
do.

Finally, in the appendix, there is a chapter called "50 Things You
Can Do to Increase Your Leadership Impact." This is an exceptional
resource that allows readers to put to use all the theories they
have read. Additionally, Performance Management Publications has a
website where you can access Aubrey Daniels's organizational
behavior tools and information. I encourage all managers and future
leaders to read MEASURE OF A LEADER.