Unlike other books written on "toxic leaders," this book takes issue with the predominant view that "toxic leaders are bad" and destructive to their companies. Rather, the author argues that even highly productive leaders have some toxic qualities central to their success story. The book redirects the conversation about toxicity in a more productive direction, as toxic leaders are not just viewed as villains and liabilities, but are also considered as potential assets, innovators, and rebels. Working on the premise that "toxicity is a fact of company life," the book provides organizations with a model and blueprint on the advantages to be gained from skillful anticipation, control, and handling of troubled and difficult leaders. In contrast to dysfunctional organizations that ignore toxicity or dwell on the perceived destructive impact of toxic leaders, successful companies come up with resourceful, innovative strategies for turning seeming deficits into opportunities.
"Alan Goldman has created a truly significant book. The inside perspective that the author provides is both unique and potentially transformational. The change processes outlined in the book offer tremendous opportunities for those leaders, managers, and organizations trapped in the downward spiral of toxicity."
Texas A&M University
"The swollen literature on good leadership is gradually being tempered by the growing literature on bad leadership. This correction is both necessary and long overdue-which is why Alan Goldman's book constitutes a contribution to the cause. He explores some bad leaders in some considerable depth, and provides pragmatic possibilities for remediation. Recommended for those - and they should be legio
Harvard Kennedy School
"Finally, one of these leadership books that is not only extremely rare but also very timely."
Raoul de Vitry d'Avaucourt Chaired Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Direct
