Geeks & Geezers
Overview: Our youngest leaders matured in the glow of computer screens; our oldest in the shadow of the Depression and World War II. In a groundbreaking study of these two disparate groups – affectionately labeled “geeks” and “geezers” – leadership experts Warren G. Bennis and Robert J. Thomas set out to find how era and values shape those who lead. What they discovered was something even more profound: the powerful process through which leaders of any era emerge.
Geeks and Geezers will forever change how we view leadership, but also how we reflect on our own formative experiences. Illustrated by compelling interviews with extraordinary individuals under thirty-five and over seventy years of age, the authors present a new model that predicts who is likely to become and remain a leader – and explains why others fail to rise to the challenge. At its heart are what the authors call “crucibles” – utterly transformational experiences from which one can emerge either hopelessly broken or powerfully emboldened to learn and to lead.
Pages: 224 Pages
Writer: Warren G. Bennis and Robert J. Thomas
Recommendations: A Promised Land By Barack Obama
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, eager to delve into the author’s musings on the contrasting worlds of Geeks and Geezers. The initial chapters expertly delineate the characteristics of both groups, offering insightful comparisons that truly capture the essence of Geeks and Geezers. However, as I delved deeper into the book, I found that the momentum began to wane. Perhaps my interest dwindled, or maybe the book simply lost its spark. Regardless, I must admit that while the first few chapters were engaging, the remainder of the book failed to hold my attention. Overall, I’d say this book is worth a read for those curious about the topic, but don’t expect it to be a page-turner from start to finish.