Stan Slap’s new book, “Bury My Heart At Conference Room B: The Unbeatable Impact Of Truly Committed Managers,” advocates that we need to make our companies a safe place for everyone, especially our managers, to give emotional commitment. That is a very important message.

Unfortunately, I cannot recommend that you read this book. Stan’s message is indeed important, and there are sections of this book that contain some great advice, but I did not enjoy reading this book. Honestly, I could not stop thinking as I read “what a mess!” Stan’s shameless self-promotion in this book was very distracting to me. He talks way to much about how great his program is before he ever really gets specific about what it is. It wasn’t until chapter 10, page 96, that I finally wrote the word “better” in my copy of the book, which by the way I received free of charge from the publicist. In all fairness to Stan, at the start of chapter 11 on page 115 I wrote “even better.”

Since there is really nothing in this book that has not been said by others previously, I think there are better new books that merit your time and attention. In my “related posts” section at the end of this review, I’ll suggest a few good alternatives.

I really am very sorry I can’t recommend this book, because I can tell Stan’s heart was in the right place, and it’s a place that I agree with. I’m going to let Stan end this review on a very positive note by quoting one of my favorite sections of the book:

Here is what you need to know most about leadership: Lead your own life first. The only thing in this world that will dependably happen from the top down is the digging of your grave. You’re waiting for leadership to happen to you? Leadership happens to you as soon as you understand your own values and understand how to enroll other in supporting them. Instead of waiting for a leader you can believe in, try this: Become a leader you can believe in. The sooner you start to practice leadership, the sooner you personal values will start to be realized. So what are you waiting for? (p. 114).

Well said, Stan. I wish you continued success with your program and your book
Bret L. Simmons, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Management in the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where he teaches courses in organizational behavior, leadership, and personal branding to both undergraduate and MBA students. Bret blogs about leadership, followership, and social media at his website Positive Organizational Behavior. You can also find Bret on Twitter,Facebook, and Linkedin.