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Where Have All the Leaders Gone?
From Booklist Iacocca is outraged. Now 82, he has seen the U.S. overcome some of its worst crises, including the Great Depression and World War II, through great leadership. As the CEO of Chrysler Corporation, he brought the company back from the brink of bankruptcy and worked with the government to overcome the fallout from the 1970s oil crisis. Now, he says, our government has fallen under the grip of arrogant ideologues and spineless detractors. Our business leaders are more obsessed with stock options and trumping each other's multimillion-dollar salaries than with finding creative solutions to pressing problems, such as the health-care crisis, our loss of competitive edge in the global marketplace, the massive trade deficit, and the slow death of the middle class. He describes his frustration as his successor at Chrysler sold out to Daimler-Benz, and the once proud, independent company lost its soul. Although Iacocca presents a brutal analysis of cronyism in Washington, D.C., the abysmal situation in Iraq, and failed policies at home, he is not a pessimist. With a reputation as a straight shooter, he hopes to inspire more young people to vote. This is a surprisingly outspoken take on the pressing need for real leadership in this country
192 pages, Hardcover
First published April 17, 2006
About the author
Lee Iacocca
20 books62 followersLee Iacocca was an American automobile executive best known for the development of Ford Mustang and Pinto cars. He served as President and CEO of Chrysler from 1978 and additionally as chairman from 1979, until his retirement at the end of 1992.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
November 4, 2009
I really enjoyed Iacocca autobiography... this book is simply him ranting into a tape recorder and then having someone type the results. He is constantly name dropping and his love fest with Castro is particularly disgusting to read. One thing that is interesting is that most of the politicians that he believes are "honest and true" are presently under ethics probes and indictments.
I think someone talked him into "writing" a book before he kicks the bucket. It isn't hard to read and some of the things he says are good ideas, but not easily implemented. The book is similar to talking to your friend's opinionated grandpa.
I think someone talked him into "writing" a book before he kicks the bucket. It isn't hard to read and some of the things he says are good ideas, but not easily implemented. The book is similar to talking to your friend's opinionated grandpa.
January 17, 2009
I'm listening to the audiobook of Lee Iacocca's Where Have All the Leaders Gone? It is a call to action for anyone who believes that this country is off course. I happen to believe in most of what Lee says in this book. Unfortunately, most of the kids (teens and young adults) in this country are too sidetracked by all the gadgets the world has to offer to pay attention to the issues. Forget about us baby-boomers. We're too tired. I hope that we can get mad enough to take action and make the Washington establishment take notice. We need a new direction and Lee's ideas, though most are reworded ideas that have already been articulated, have great merit.
December 23, 2020
Where Have All The Leader's Gone is Lee Iacocca's perspective on the dearth of leaders, the reason why, and what needs to be done. It is also a rant against then-President George W. Bush, a call for America to re-think (and act) on the then upcoming 2008 election, insights of a CEO mastermind and darling, as well as a self-help guide to retirement from one who maximized his years "on the sidelines."
Iaccoca was an octogenarian when he penned these words. I think that is a reason to hear him out rather than tune him out. A captain of Industry, Iacocca (1924-2019) was the father of the Ford Mustang, the K car, and the minivan. He also led the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. During a stellar five-decade career in the auto industry, Iacocca ran Ford and later Chrysler, which he rescued from bankruptcy. In fact, as the head of Chrysler, he paid back the 1.2 billion dollar federal loan years ahead of time.
Some Iacocca leadership gems:
1. Leaders must "read voraciously, because the world is a big, complicated place" (p.6).
2. Swagger isn't courage (p.8).
3. Iacocca's "Nine Cs of Leadership" (chapter 1): Curiosity, Creativity, Communication, Character, Courage, Conviction, Charisma (not flashiness, but the ability to inspire and imbue trust), Competence, Common Sense.
4. Leadership is forged in times of crisis.
5. Iacocca's Management Maxim: "Here's what management is about: Pick good people and set the right priorities" (p. 15).
6. On leadership accountability: Leaders ask others and must be asked regarding their ideas/plans: "Can you show me where it's working?" (Chapter 5).
7. On democracy: "Democracy thrives on two factors: free elections and open discourse. How are we doing? Not so hot." (This was 2007.)
8. On the lack or real discourse: "Who cares about common sense when you've got righteous indignation on your side?" (p. 62).
9. On reading/studying history: "One of the qualities that made Winston Churchill a great leader was his historical imagination. 'The longer you look back,' he wrote, 'the farther you can look forward'" (p. 76).
10. On U.S. global trade: "As the trade imbalance grows, out influence in the world shrinks" (p. 104).
11. On compensation: Pay for performance (p. 140).
12. On innovation: "Innovation can be much more important than size. Often, when companies get big they tend to grow sluggish. It takes a constant infusion of fresh ideas and leadership to prevent that" (p. 161).
13. On communication: "Communication is the lubricant that makes an organization run -- and never is that more true than during times of crisis" (p. 169).
14. On non-performance (addressing car companies, but applies to many sectors): "Shuck the losers: Car companies -like all other big bureaucracies- have a real aversion to giving up on something once they've poured a ton of cash into it. There's always an attitude that success is just around the corner. I hate to say it, but it's time to cut and run on some of these products" (p. 173).
15. On parenting: "Push them to defend their heroes. What qualities -apart from the shallow values of money, fame, and good looks- make them worth of emulation?" (p. 235) GOLD!
16. On finding mentors: "The first thing you need to do, before you even find your desk in a new company, is to find the person who is going to be your teacher and advocate" (p. 235).
17. On retirement: If you don't have a plan, you're going to make mistakes (p. 243). There's nothing wrong with playing golf, but if you think golf is going to be enough to fill your life in retirement, you're mistaken. Even if you love golf, it's not going to get you up in the morning the way work did. You've got to find something real to do (p. 241-2).
Some quotes to ponder: (Iacocca's unless otherwise noted)
1. "The inability to listen is a form of arrogance. It means either you think you already know it all, or you just don't care" (p. 6).
2. On reading: "Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate for a moment to prefer the latter" (Thomas Jefferson, p. 6).
3. On power: "If you want to test a man's character, give him power" (Abraham Lincoln).
4. On crisis and leadership: "Storms happen. Deal with it. Make a plan. Figure out what you're going to do the next time" (p. 13).
5. On political discourse: "It's just plain crazy to stop talking to people you disagree with. As long as you keep talking, there's hope." Iacocca adds: "your ideas have to be bigger than your guns."
6. On reading/studying history: "One of the qualities that made Winston Churchill a great leader was his historical imagination. 'The longer you look back,' he wrote, 'the farther you can look forward'" (p. 76).
7. "Facts are stubborn things" (John Adams, Ronald Reagan).
8. On failure and change: "The seasons change. Summer follows spring, and night follows day. Life is full of ups and downs. Business cycles go round and round. Evens happen that rock your world: People in the family die. You get a divorce. You get fired. Your business goes under. I've been through all of these changes, and each time I've had to wake up and try something different. Before you can deal with change, however, you have to see i. The you have to accept it. Sometimes that's the hardest part--acknowledging and then accepting that the way you've always done business or lived your life just won't work any more. This is just a basic life lesson" (p. 113).
9. On national generosity: "In the race to determine who will own the twenty-first century, I'll place my bets on the givers, not takers" (p. 213).
9. On risk: "You see, the first thing you have to do in order to compete is take a risk. If you can't afford to take a risk, you can't afford to compete" (p. 196).
10. On discipline: "There is no contradiction between a soft heart and a hard head" (Robert McNamara, p. 231).
11. On success: "To be successful you have to be focused, have a plan, and stick to it with the help of a great team. This means a strong board of trustees, professional staff, and relevant experts as advisors" (p. 246).
Conclusion:
Where Have All The Leaders Gone? is not a leadership "must read," but it is a very good read. At times, Iacocca talks like a crotchety-old grandfather (which he was at this writing; e.g. see page 205). He is, at all times, the straight-shooting Lee Iacocca that America (and much of the world) admired. This includes his Bush-bashing, views on business, money (it does not buy happiness), politics, and his thoughts on a nation that has lost its appreciation for participation and sacrifice (see chapter 17, pp. 205 ff). Iacocca pays tributes to three mentors in chapter 19. I appreciated and enjoyed this feature that highlighted optimism (his father), common sense (Charlie Beacham), and discipline (Robert McNamara). The book shows his confidence, lacks arrogance, and is both self-effacing and humble at points (e.g. p. 160) where he highlights things "he never saw coming."
Iacocca is right when he says, "No matter how important you think you are, you're just a little blip on the screen of time."
Look to this corporate giant for great lessons on business and life, for his acknowledgement and "dependence" on God (he was Catholic); but for one who says, "you've got all eternity to catch up on your rest," he assumes that path, but does not show us the way. For that we need Jesus (John 14:6).
Iaccoca was an octogenarian when he penned these words. I think that is a reason to hear him out rather than tune him out. A captain of Industry, Iacocca (1924-2019) was the father of the Ford Mustang, the K car, and the minivan. He also led the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. During a stellar five-decade career in the auto industry, Iacocca ran Ford and later Chrysler, which he rescued from bankruptcy. In fact, as the head of Chrysler, he paid back the 1.2 billion dollar federal loan years ahead of time.
Some Iacocca leadership gems:
1. Leaders must "read voraciously, because the world is a big, complicated place" (p.6).
2. Swagger isn't courage (p.8).
3. Iacocca's "Nine Cs of Leadership" (chapter 1): Curiosity, Creativity, Communication, Character, Courage, Conviction, Charisma (not flashiness, but the ability to inspire and imbue trust), Competence, Common Sense.
4. Leadership is forged in times of crisis.
5. Iacocca's Management Maxim: "Here's what management is about: Pick good people and set the right priorities" (p. 15).
6. On leadership accountability: Leaders ask others and must be asked regarding their ideas/plans: "Can you show me where it's working?" (Chapter 5).
7. On democracy: "Democracy thrives on two factors: free elections and open discourse. How are we doing? Not so hot." (This was 2007.)
8. On the lack or real discourse: "Who cares about common sense when you've got righteous indignation on your side?" (p. 62).
9. On reading/studying history: "One of the qualities that made Winston Churchill a great leader was his historical imagination. 'The longer you look back,' he wrote, 'the farther you can look forward'" (p. 76).
10. On U.S. global trade: "As the trade imbalance grows, out influence in the world shrinks" (p. 104).
11. On compensation: Pay for performance (p. 140).
12. On innovation: "Innovation can be much more important than size. Often, when companies get big they tend to grow sluggish. It takes a constant infusion of fresh ideas and leadership to prevent that" (p. 161).
13. On communication: "Communication is the lubricant that makes an organization run -- and never is that more true than during times of crisis" (p. 169).
14. On non-performance (addressing car companies, but applies to many sectors): "Shuck the losers: Car companies -like all other big bureaucracies- have a real aversion to giving up on something once they've poured a ton of cash into it. There's always an attitude that success is just around the corner. I hate to say it, but it's time to cut and run on some of these products" (p. 173).
15. On parenting: "Push them to defend their heroes. What qualities -apart from the shallow values of money, fame, and good looks- make them worth of emulation?" (p. 235) GOLD!
16. On finding mentors: "The first thing you need to do, before you even find your desk in a new company, is to find the person who is going to be your teacher and advocate" (p. 235).
17. On retirement: If you don't have a plan, you're going to make mistakes (p. 243). There's nothing wrong with playing golf, but if you think golf is going to be enough to fill your life in retirement, you're mistaken. Even if you love golf, it's not going to get you up in the morning the way work did. You've got to find something real to do (p. 241-2).
Some quotes to ponder: (Iacocca's unless otherwise noted)
1. "The inability to listen is a form of arrogance. It means either you think you already know it all, or you just don't care" (p. 6).
2. On reading: "Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate for a moment to prefer the latter" (Thomas Jefferson, p. 6).
3. On power: "If you want to test a man's character, give him power" (Abraham Lincoln).
4. On crisis and leadership: "Storms happen. Deal with it. Make a plan. Figure out what you're going to do the next time" (p. 13).
5. On political discourse: "It's just plain crazy to stop talking to people you disagree with. As long as you keep talking, there's hope." Iacocca adds: "your ideas have to be bigger than your guns."
6. On reading/studying history: "One of the qualities that made Winston Churchill a great leader was his historical imagination. 'The longer you look back,' he wrote, 'the farther you can look forward'" (p. 76).
7. "Facts are stubborn things" (John Adams, Ronald Reagan).
8. On failure and change: "The seasons change. Summer follows spring, and night follows day. Life is full of ups and downs. Business cycles go round and round. Evens happen that rock your world: People in the family die. You get a divorce. You get fired. Your business goes under. I've been through all of these changes, and each time I've had to wake up and try something different. Before you can deal with change, however, you have to see i. The you have to accept it. Sometimes that's the hardest part--acknowledging and then accepting that the way you've always done business or lived your life just won't work any more. This is just a basic life lesson" (p. 113).
9. On national generosity: "In the race to determine who will own the twenty-first century, I'll place my bets on the givers, not takers" (p. 213).
9. On risk: "You see, the first thing you have to do in order to compete is take a risk. If you can't afford to take a risk, you can't afford to compete" (p. 196).
10. On discipline: "There is no contradiction between a soft heart and a hard head" (Robert McNamara, p. 231).
11. On success: "To be successful you have to be focused, have a plan, and stick to it with the help of a great team. This means a strong board of trustees, professional staff, and relevant experts as advisors" (p. 246).
Conclusion:
Where Have All The Leaders Gone? is not a leadership "must read," but it is a very good read. At times, Iacocca talks like a crotchety-old grandfather (which he was at this writing; e.g. see page 205). He is, at all times, the straight-shooting Lee Iacocca that America (and much of the world) admired. This includes his Bush-bashing, views on business, money (it does not buy happiness), politics, and his thoughts on a nation that has lost its appreciation for participation and sacrifice (see chapter 17, pp. 205 ff). Iacocca pays tributes to three mentors in chapter 19. I appreciated and enjoyed this feature that highlighted optimism (his father), common sense (Charlie Beacham), and discipline (Robert McNamara). The book shows his confidence, lacks arrogance, and is both self-effacing and humble at points (e.g. p. 160) where he highlights things "he never saw coming."
Iacocca is right when he says, "No matter how important you think you are, you're just a little blip on the screen of time."
Look to this corporate giant for great lessons on business and life, for his acknowledgement and "dependence" on God (he was Catholic); but for one who says, "you've got all eternity to catch up on your rest," he assumes that path, but does not show us the way. For that we need Jesus (John 14:6).
April 21, 2008
This is the equivalent of sitting down with your grandfather and listening to him dispense pearls of wisdom about the state of the United States. The first two-thirds are really insightful, full of "common sense" that nobody seems willing to talk about or admit to anymore. The final third weakens a bit and becomes more of a rant. Still, some worthwhile things to consider especially as we head into this election season.
The most valuable thing I got from the book was his request that everyone, regardless of political beliefs and affiliations, take a step back and look at the candidates with fresh eyes and evaluate them against the nine qualities he believe best measure a leader: Curiosity, Creativity, Communication, Character, Courage, Conviction, Charisma, Competence, and Common Sense.
The most valuable thing I got from the book was his request that everyone, regardless of political beliefs and affiliations, take a step back and look at the candidates with fresh eyes and evaluate them against the nine qualities he believe best measure a leader: Curiosity, Creativity, Communication, Character, Courage, Conviction, Charisma, Competence, and Common Sense.
August 18, 2009
I’ll start off by saying that Iacocca occasionally uses strong language, but not the “F” word. He does not do this excessively, but if this will offend you, read no further.
Iacocca, who comes from a blue collar background, went to college (Lehigh, not some Ivy League school) and prospered as he worked hard and picked up mentors along the way. He supported George W. Bush in the 2000 campaign but became disillusioned during his first term and worked for Kerry in 2004. With that background, you will figure out that the leaders that he sees as AWOL are GWB and the Republican members of congress. However, he has harsh words for Democrats, labor union leaders and corporate big shots as well. He is particularly hard on his own auto industry – saying that GM is too stodgy to change and that the Daimler/Chrysler merger was doomed from the start. He claims that lack of imagination and fear of the unknown has led to what we see today in Detroit. Of course he wrote this two years ago before the auto industry fiasco actually happened.
He is also willing to advocate health care reform, saying it is one of the real obstacles to corporate wellness and thus to a healthy middle class in the USA. He comes down hard on excessive executive pay – kind of unusual for one who was a recipient of big paychecks in his career. He shows disdain for yes-men in business and government – someone has to point out flaws in the groupthink that almost inevitably takes over any organization.
Some quotes from the book:
“…the Constitution is like the Bible. You don’t really have to read it every day to know what’s in it. You don’t have to memorize every word to know what it stands for.
“The Constitution is a tool, and a blueprint, and a process that we have to use every day to preserve our great democracy. Its words were hammered out by pragmatists – a group of men who understood that democracy doesn’t happen because of starry-eyed idealism, but through a process of tedious negotiations and compromise.
“And for 230 years it has worked. The real genius of the Constitution, it seems to me, is that it has retained its fundamental values while giving us the freedom to adapt to the times.” (pp 46-47)
“To give you an idea of the magnitude of the amount we’re pouring into Iraq, let’s look at the conservative estimate of what half a trillion dollars would buy here at home:
• …hire 8 MILLION SCHOOLTEACHERS.
• …give FREE HEALTH CARE to everyone for one year.
• …provide 25 MILLION COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS.
• …give every American FREE GAS for one year.
• …build 3 MILLION AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS.
• …hire 8 MILLION POLICE, FIRE, AND EMT WORKERS.”
(pp 79-80)
Even though he is generally attacking the Republicans, we all need to remember that the party in power tends to become complacent and reluctant to change – we need to be reminding them of the needs of all the people of the nation.
Iacocca, who comes from a blue collar background, went to college (Lehigh, not some Ivy League school) and prospered as he worked hard and picked up mentors along the way. He supported George W. Bush in the 2000 campaign but became disillusioned during his first term and worked for Kerry in 2004. With that background, you will figure out that the leaders that he sees as AWOL are GWB and the Republican members of congress. However, he has harsh words for Democrats, labor union leaders and corporate big shots as well. He is particularly hard on his own auto industry – saying that GM is too stodgy to change and that the Daimler/Chrysler merger was doomed from the start. He claims that lack of imagination and fear of the unknown has led to what we see today in Detroit. Of course he wrote this two years ago before the auto industry fiasco actually happened.
He is also willing to advocate health care reform, saying it is one of the real obstacles to corporate wellness and thus to a healthy middle class in the USA. He comes down hard on excessive executive pay – kind of unusual for one who was a recipient of big paychecks in his career. He shows disdain for yes-men in business and government – someone has to point out flaws in the groupthink that almost inevitably takes over any organization.
Some quotes from the book:
“…the Constitution is like the Bible. You don’t really have to read it every day to know what’s in it. You don’t have to memorize every word to know what it stands for.
“The Constitution is a tool, and a blueprint, and a process that we have to use every day to preserve our great democracy. Its words were hammered out by pragmatists – a group of men who understood that democracy doesn’t happen because of starry-eyed idealism, but through a process of tedious negotiations and compromise.
“And for 230 years it has worked. The real genius of the Constitution, it seems to me, is that it has retained its fundamental values while giving us the freedom to adapt to the times.” (pp 46-47)
“To give you an idea of the magnitude of the amount we’re pouring into Iraq, let’s look at the conservative estimate of what half a trillion dollars would buy here at home:
• …hire 8 MILLION SCHOOLTEACHERS.
• …give FREE HEALTH CARE to everyone for one year.
• …provide 25 MILLION COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS.
• …give every American FREE GAS for one year.
• …build 3 MILLION AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS.
• …hire 8 MILLION POLICE, FIRE, AND EMT WORKERS.”
(pp 79-80)
Even though he is generally attacking the Republicans, we all need to remember that the party in power tends to become complacent and reluctant to change – we need to be reminding them of the needs of all the people of the nation.
January 7, 2013
Rubbish. For a guy that I had untold amounts of respect for in the late 80's and 90's ("Talking Straight" was brilliant at the time), I felt like I was being served written verbal diarrhea. He continues to promote that he's just mad and speaking up to defend the country he loves, but he makes no valid points, fails to even consider the other points of view, and seems to go on for 200 pages about hating Bush 43. I only finished it because I had hopes it would improve with time, but it did not. Terribly disappointed in his approach, his politics, and his incessant rambling, but wish him well nonetheless. He's a legend of American business, but should stay out on the golf course.
November 18, 2008
"A man of character does not ask a single soldier to die for a failed policy."
"The job of a leader is to accomplish goals that advance the common good. Anyone can take up space. Here's the test of a leader: when he leaves office, we should be better off than when he started. It's that simple."
"The best recruiting tool for the jihadists is the war in Iraq."
"But change itself is not a leadership quality, and the ability to promise change does not necessarily qualify a person to be president."
"The job of a leader is to accomplish goals that advance the common good. Anyone can take up space. Here's the test of a leader: when he leaves office, we should be better off than when he started. It's that simple."
"The best recruiting tool for the jihadists is the war in Iraq."
"But change itself is not a leadership quality, and the ability to promise change does not necessarily qualify a person to be president."
March 10, 2016
Not much to say...well written and, oh yeah, thanks for NAFTA, Mr. Iacocca.
March 31, 2019
A once respected business man reduced to a sniveling fool with a drool cup. Very disappointed. Don't waste your time or money.
August 16, 2019
Pretty weak attempt of trying to influence an election. I'd pass on this one.
February 14, 2021
OK, I'm really not into politics, but this was awful. Began to read after a friend's suggestion but had to put it away after only reading the third of it.
February 16, 2024
Left off on the 2nd CD. Turns out Lee thought that Biden was a good senator, and that Kerry should have stood up for himself. Is Chrysler even making cars anymore? So disappointed in this book.
July 27, 2008
Not bad, really just hits home that our country is in need of strong leadership.
July 13, 2013
Lee Iacocca wrote this book to take out his frustration on President George W. Bush in my opinion. What is so ironic is most of his points really could apply to President Barak Obama. As you read through the quotes below see what you think:
Hey, America, wake up. These guys [the government officials] work for us. ~Lee Iacocca
I’ve figured out nine points and called them “Nine C’s of Leadership.”
A leader has to show CURIOSITY. – If a leader never steps outside his comfort zone to hear different ideas, he grows stale. If he doesn’t put his beliefs to the test, how does he know he’s right? The inability to listen is a form of arrogance. It means either you think you already know it all, or you just don’t care. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be CREATIVE, go out on a limb, be willing to try something different. You know, think outside the box. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to COMMUNICATE. I’m talking about facing reality and telling the truth. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be a person of CHARACTER. That means knowing the difference between right and wrong and having the guts to do the right thing. Abraham Lincoln once said, “If you want to test a man’s character give him power.” ~Lee Iacocca
A leader must have COURAGE. Swagger isn’t courage. Tough talk isn’t courage. Courage is a commitment to sit down at the negotiating table and talk. If you’re a politician, courage means taking a position even when you know it will cost you votes. ~Lee Iacocca
To be a leader you’ve got to have CONVICTION – a fire in your belly. You’ve got to have passion. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader should have CHARISMA. I’m not talking about being flashy. Charisma is the quality that makes people want to follow you. It’s the ability to inspire. People follow a leader because they trust him. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be COMPETENT. That seems obvious, doesn’t it? You’ve got to know what you’re doing. More important than that, you’ve got to surround yourself with people who know what they’re doing. ~Lee Iacocca
You can’t be a leader if you don’t have COMMON SENSE. ~Lee Iacocca
The Biggest C is CRISIS.
Leaders are made, not born. Leadership is forged in times of crisis. ~Lee Iacocca
Who do you think Lee is describing?
“So here’s where we stand. We’re immersed in a bloody war with no plan for winning and no plan for leaving. We’re running the biggest deficit in the history of the country. We’re losing the manufacturing edge to Asia, while our once-great companies are getting slaughtered by health care costs. Gas prices are skyrocketing, and nobody in power has a coherent energy policy. Our schools are in trouble. Our borders are like sieves. The middle class is being squeezed every which way. These are times that cry out for leadership.” ~Lee Iacocca
Here’s what management is about: Pick good people and set the right priorities. ~Lee Iacocca
Teamwork is what makes the Green Bay Packers great. People who work together will win – period. And that applies to companies and governments. ~Vince Lombardi
One of the most important lessons I learned in business was that if all you’re getting from your team is a single point of view – usually your point of view – you’ve got to worry. You can get your own point of view for free. ~Lee Iacocca
Of all the talents bestowed upon men, none is so precious as the gift of oratory. Abandoned by his party, betrayed by his friends, stripped of his office, whoever can command this power is still formidable. ~Winston Churchill
Words can inspire. They can lift us to heights we never dreamed possible. Words can also provoke fear and rage. They can pound people into the ground. A true leader always strives to inspire. ~Lee Iacocca
Democracy thrives on two factors: free elections and open discourse. ~Lee Iacocca
The Constitution is a tool, and a blueprint, and a process that we have to use every day to preserve our great democracy. ~Lee Iacocca
Through the Constitution, we intrinsically understand who we are. We say, “This is what we stand for.” Its meaning should be imprinted on every heart. It should come to mind every time we vote. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to know who his true friends are, and it’s not always the ones who agree with everything or follow you blindly. With a true friend, there’s got to be equality. You share the good times and you share the bad times. There’s got to be respect. If your friend takes a principled position for the other side, you don’t have to like it, but you don’t call him names either. ~Lee Iacocca
Ronald Reagan once said, “Facts are suborn things.” He actually got that quote from John Adams. ~Lee Iacocca
When advertising slogans are better known than the Ten Commandments or the Bill of Rights, when shopping malls are our places of worship, when bad behavior is justified as long as it leads to profit, when debt is justified as long as it leads to a plasma TV, and when the measure of a person is the kind of car he drives, maybe it’s time to ask whether we’ve corrupted the very notion of capitalism. ~Lee Iacocca
Innovation can be much more important than size. Often, when companies get big they tend to grow sluggish. It takes a constant infusion of fresh ideas and leadership to prevent that. ~Lee Iacocca
We saved Chrysler for one reason. Everyone shared in the sacrifice – starting with me. You see, it wouldn’t have gone down too well if I’d asked the rank and file to tighten their belts while I was putting extra notches in mine. So I cut my salary to one dollar a year. That is an example of leadership, born in a crisis. ~Lee Iacocca
I don’t measure a man’s success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom. ~General George Patton
So, if when you retire you think, "I'm tired. It's time to relax," think again. As the saying goes, you've got all eternity to catch up on your rest. ~Lee Iacocca
Hey, America, wake up. These guys [the government officials] work for us. ~Lee Iacocca
I’ve figured out nine points and called them “Nine C’s of Leadership.”
A leader has to show CURIOSITY. – If a leader never steps outside his comfort zone to hear different ideas, he grows stale. If he doesn’t put his beliefs to the test, how does he know he’s right? The inability to listen is a form of arrogance. It means either you think you already know it all, or you just don’t care. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be CREATIVE, go out on a limb, be willing to try something different. You know, think outside the box. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to COMMUNICATE. I’m talking about facing reality and telling the truth. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be a person of CHARACTER. That means knowing the difference between right and wrong and having the guts to do the right thing. Abraham Lincoln once said, “If you want to test a man’s character give him power.” ~Lee Iacocca
A leader must have COURAGE. Swagger isn’t courage. Tough talk isn’t courage. Courage is a commitment to sit down at the negotiating table and talk. If you’re a politician, courage means taking a position even when you know it will cost you votes. ~Lee Iacocca
To be a leader you’ve got to have CONVICTION – a fire in your belly. You’ve got to have passion. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader should have CHARISMA. I’m not talking about being flashy. Charisma is the quality that makes people want to follow you. It’s the ability to inspire. People follow a leader because they trust him. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to be COMPETENT. That seems obvious, doesn’t it? You’ve got to know what you’re doing. More important than that, you’ve got to surround yourself with people who know what they’re doing. ~Lee Iacocca
You can’t be a leader if you don’t have COMMON SENSE. ~Lee Iacocca
The Biggest C is CRISIS.
Leaders are made, not born. Leadership is forged in times of crisis. ~Lee Iacocca
Who do you think Lee is describing?
“So here’s where we stand. We’re immersed in a bloody war with no plan for winning and no plan for leaving. We’re running the biggest deficit in the history of the country. We’re losing the manufacturing edge to Asia, while our once-great companies are getting slaughtered by health care costs. Gas prices are skyrocketing, and nobody in power has a coherent energy policy. Our schools are in trouble. Our borders are like sieves. The middle class is being squeezed every which way. These are times that cry out for leadership.” ~Lee Iacocca
Here’s what management is about: Pick good people and set the right priorities. ~Lee Iacocca
Teamwork is what makes the Green Bay Packers great. People who work together will win – period. And that applies to companies and governments. ~Vince Lombardi
One of the most important lessons I learned in business was that if all you’re getting from your team is a single point of view – usually your point of view – you’ve got to worry. You can get your own point of view for free. ~Lee Iacocca
Of all the talents bestowed upon men, none is so precious as the gift of oratory. Abandoned by his party, betrayed by his friends, stripped of his office, whoever can command this power is still formidable. ~Winston Churchill
Words can inspire. They can lift us to heights we never dreamed possible. Words can also provoke fear and rage. They can pound people into the ground. A true leader always strives to inspire. ~Lee Iacocca
Democracy thrives on two factors: free elections and open discourse. ~Lee Iacocca
The Constitution is a tool, and a blueprint, and a process that we have to use every day to preserve our great democracy. ~Lee Iacocca
Through the Constitution, we intrinsically understand who we are. We say, “This is what we stand for.” Its meaning should be imprinted on every heart. It should come to mind every time we vote. ~Lee Iacocca
A leader has to know who his true friends are, and it’s not always the ones who agree with everything or follow you blindly. With a true friend, there’s got to be equality. You share the good times and you share the bad times. There’s got to be respect. If your friend takes a principled position for the other side, you don’t have to like it, but you don’t call him names either. ~Lee Iacocca
Ronald Reagan once said, “Facts are suborn things.” He actually got that quote from John Adams. ~Lee Iacocca
When advertising slogans are better known than the Ten Commandments or the Bill of Rights, when shopping malls are our places of worship, when bad behavior is justified as long as it leads to profit, when debt is justified as long as it leads to a plasma TV, and when the measure of a person is the kind of car he drives, maybe it’s time to ask whether we’ve corrupted the very notion of capitalism. ~Lee Iacocca
Innovation can be much more important than size. Often, when companies get big they tend to grow sluggish. It takes a constant infusion of fresh ideas and leadership to prevent that. ~Lee Iacocca
We saved Chrysler for one reason. Everyone shared in the sacrifice – starting with me. You see, it wouldn’t have gone down too well if I’d asked the rank and file to tighten their belts while I was putting extra notches in mine. So I cut my salary to one dollar a year. That is an example of leadership, born in a crisis. ~Lee Iacocca
I don’t measure a man’s success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom. ~General George Patton
So, if when you retire you think, "I'm tired. It's time to relax," think again. As the saying goes, you've got all eternity to catch up on your rest. ~Lee Iacocca
April 7, 2018
Lee Iacocca, in answering the question "Where Have All the Leaders Gone," fails to answer the question: "Where Have All the Leaders Gone?" In a book titled, "Where Have All the Leaders Gone," this is concerning. He does write, however, in a narratively verbose manner, which is especially important when the conversation changes faster than an awkward breakup. One moment Iacocca is talking about
It reminds me of Dale Carnegie's motivational book, "How to Win Friends & Influence People," in that both books provide analysis on character traits. Dale Carnegie, for example, chose a moderately successful businessman called Dale Carnegie, and analyzed what he did and why. Lee Iacocca analyzes
It reminds me of Dale Carnegie's motivational book, "How to Win Friends & Influence People," in that both books provide analysis on character traits. Dale Carnegie, for example, chose a moderately successful businessman called Dale Carnegie, and analyzed what he did and why. Lee Iacocca analyzes
July 30, 2020
3.5⭐️ I like the “9” C’s he talks about in a leader. Each situation calls for a combination of qualities to the front to become an effective leader.
1. Curiosity
2. Creativity
3. Communication
4. Character
5. Courage
6. Conviction
7. Charisma
8. Competence
9. Common Sense
This book was written back before the 2008 election so you can tell his disappointment/frustration with the Bush administration.
1. Curiosity
2. Creativity
3. Communication
4. Character
5. Courage
6. Conviction
7. Charisma
8. Competence
9. Common Sense
This book was written back before the 2008 election so you can tell his disappointment/frustration with the Bush administration.
October 6, 2020
If there is one book about business to read it is this one because Lee started at Ford motor company and then turned around Chrysler. In the book he gives the 9 c's of a good leader. In this President election I think it would be advised everyone take a look at the 9 and compare it with who we have in the white house now and you will see we need someone else. The book was written when George W. Bush was in the white house.
January 15, 2021
Iacocca reflects on the state of the world and the US's positioning at the time of writing (leading up to the 2008 election) with a lens of reflective criticism and objectivity. Drawing from his personal business experience and life encounters, Iacocca draws the reader in with an articulation of principles which is demonstrated in practice through various examples and personas. As such, the book serves as an compelling benchmark of leadership and character.
May 7, 2023
To be blunt, when I first started this book, I hated it. I hated how angry and bitter Lee came across as. Then I kept reading. I soon realized how brilliant and spot on he is on.events happening even now. His perspective was a breath of fresh air. In a world where common sense is not so common, Lee sets the record straight with perfect balance of educated smarts and street smarts. Great. Recommend.
August 28, 2023
Very interesting read, there was talk about courage, curiosity, communication, discipline and setting the right course, using the spirit and genius to reinvent the industry, mentoring and being a mentor and to return the favour and to supporting kids who have the talent and the drive to succeed.
It was easy reading and I found it to be enlightening too.
It was easy reading and I found it to be enlightening too.
April 21, 2018
A lot of repetition in this book from his first book written in the early 80s. Still sharp and witty but sounds a bit like a tied old grumpy guy complaining. Nevertheless he still has a lot of great points and leaves behind a huge legacy and he knows it. Its a good read.
August 17, 2019
I have highlighted a number of great thoughts by Lee in this book and shared them as I kept reading it. There are many points I agree with Lee and others that I don't. I am richer for reading this book that has been written plainly and evocatively. Thank you Lee for this worthy contribution.
April 8, 2020
Good book. How to measure a leader, interesting reflections, quite a bit about GW Bush. Interesting Thomas Jefferson quote “to preserve our independence, we must not let our leaders load us with perpetual debt” B-
May 5, 2020
This is the second loccoca book I have read. The material is dated in that he is commenting on the Bush presidency, however many of the yearning for leadership, oversight, and supporting clean energy are still the same in the current landscape.
December 22, 2020
Lee Iacocca wrote this book during the presidency of George W. Bush. It makes me wonder what he made of the Trump presidency (he died in 2019). He has some good points, but there are also points he doesn't understand like the importance of peer-review in scientific investigation.
October 23, 2023
Not really a book on leadership. Can’t even say it was that much of an autobiography. First 50 pages are the author ranting about George Bush (Jr). Middle was a bit better but the last 3 pages went right back to the convoluted ranking the author has for leadership qualities (9 is too many).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2024
Very interesting reading this in 2024. From sharp views, about globalization, to assessment of the leadership qualities of multiple presidents, and also Rand, and the interest unironically Lee to make America great again before it was turned into a demagogue slogan.
February 23, 2017
Interesting.
October 15, 2017
A really fun book. I can't say I have ever really followed Mr. Iacocca, but I related to what he said and enjoyed his book.
December 12, 2017
He doesn't hold back, very critical of many, with some very valid points that will make you think.
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