The Mystique of Leadership. Developing Emotional Intelligence

The author, one of Europe's leading experts in management, comprehensively examines the phenomenon of leadership and shows the ways that can improve a leader's ability to understand themselves, motivate and support their subordinates. Issues such as the natural human tendency... to resist change, the interaction of rational and irrational behavior in leaders, the life cycle of a leader and the continuity of leadership, loss of enthusiasm and apathy among employees, and destructive leadership styles are analyzed.
Kets de Vries thoroughly investigates the characteristics of effective leadership and identifies the skills that distinguish an effective leader. He shows how companies can assess the leadership abilities of potential candidates and develop leadership skills in those already in managerial positions. The book includes practical exercises and questionnaires that will help assess the state of affairs in the company, uncover dangerous symptoms, and prevent serious problems from arising.
The book is primarily addressed to entrepreneurs, managers, and top executives of companies, but will also be of interest to a broad audience.