Summary: Lessons From The Top - Thomas J. Neff and James M. Citrin: The Search For America's Best Business Leaders

This work offers a summary of the book "LESSONS FROM THE TOP: The Search For America's Best Business Leaders" by Thomas J.

Neff and James M. Citrin.The authors have completed a systemic study into characteristics of great business leaders.

The research showed that there was not any one single characteristic or business practice that is common: instead, the most successful leaders in business all develop and practice a highly personalised mix of character traits, philosophies and practices.

No single factor can be pulled out, but the authors did compile two lists of six business principles and ten common traits.

Many people are surprised by the character bias, and the absence of strikingly new ideas.

Technologies and other details may change over time, principles of good business do not.Lessons from the Top is a fascinating look at the study, using quotes from the world's most successful business leaders.

Elizabeth Dole from the Red Cross believes that 'Integrity is the one thing that every person has 100% control over.'' Her strategy is therefore based on that.

Others put value in the one big idea, such as Bob Eaton from DaimlerChrysler; Herb Kelleher from Southwest Airlines has made it a policy to hire for attitude rather than skills, and to build on strengths rather than solve weaknesses.

Whether you're an executive, or working your way up, this is an inspiring book.