Synopsis

James Kouzes and Barry Posner’s “Credibility; How Leaders Gain and Lose It, Why People Demand It” argued that leaders must have credibility at the foundation of their style and approach. However, it is not a trait you acquire or something you practice. They argued that through multiple other traits and approaches, a leader develops credibility. 

Through real-world examples and research, Kouzes and Posner described the principles that lead a leader to have credibility to lead effectively. They argued that without credibility, a leader would struggle to bring even the best ideas to fruition. They also posit that leadership is personal. It is not about the whole but the individual. Thus, making credibility a key characteristic.

Lastly, they argued that there are four characteristics that a leader must have and six disciplines that help to develop the characteristics. The four characteristics include honesty, forward-looking, inspiring, and competence. The six disciplines that lead to the development are discovering yourself, appreciating your constituents, affirming shared values, developing capacity, serving a purpose, and sustaining hope. 

Just My Thoughts

Kouzes and Posner are not providing new information. They are emphasizing the need for good leaders. They are not wrong (I believe) that leadership is personal. It is relationship-based. It is not something that floats in the air. It is tangible (again, in my opinion). Imagine not being trusted as a leader? Well, if you are not trusted, then are you a leader? 

I first listened to this book. I spent a few moments throughout wondering, well, who doesn’t know that? Yet, I also found myself responding to the reading, saying, “Well, ya!” It was a good reminder of what we do and why we do it. Being a leader is a privilege. I’m not sure they argued that, but I do. 

What is particularly appealing about this book is that they are not trying to be the next inventors of a new idea. They are emphasizing the need for leaders to self-reflect. Ask yourself why your people may not be reacting to you the way you think they should. I’m not sure how many leaders consider the idea of appreciating your constituents. If you are a true leader (again, an opinion), you should praise them in public! 

Read it! Listen to it! It just makes sense.