Wingtips with Spurs
by Michael L. Gooch
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Book Summary Information
Author: Michael L. GoochEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2008-06-01
ISBN: 1897326882
Number of pages: 292
Publisher: Multi-Media Publications Inc.
Book Reviews of Wingtips with Spurs
Book Review: Excellent management advice delivered with a virtual cowboy twang
Summary: 5 Stars
Although the author sometimes goes a little too far into the libertarian philosophy and uses a bit too much religion, in every other way I am in complete agreement with him. When not engaged in his primary job as a director of human resources for a major corporation, Gooch owns and operates a cattle ranch. As someone who once had a hobby farm and raised cattle, I can deeply empathize with his statements about raising cattle.
The theme of the book is to relate the problems of the modern corporate culture to the "simplicity" of herding cattle on a drive. Using analogies between the various components of each area, Gooch describes his philosophy of managing people, loving hard work and having respect for your underlings, whether they are people or cattle. While this may sound demeaning, no one who has ever raised cattle will question the validity of the comparison.
The way to get cattle to do what you want is to engage in gentle persuasion, anticipate their needs and to introduce change reasonably slowly. That philosophy works with people as well. You must understand that they have fears, concerns and feelings and that many of the negative things such as poor performance and lay-offs are the responsibility of management. Cattle have personalities and are not interchangeable parts although eventually you must replace even the best due to sagging performance.
Sound management advice can be packaged in many ways; in this case it is presented with a western flair and a virtual cowboy intonation. Plain speaking, respect and honesty are always the best long term management strategies, as the trail to success is a long one and sometimes you step in what the cattle leave behind.
Summary of Wingtips with Spurs
The lure of the open plain, boots, chaps and cowboy hats makes us think of a different and better way of life. The cowboy code of honor is an image that is alive and well in our hearts and minds, and its wisdom is timeless. Using ranch based stories, author Michael Gooch, a ranch owner, tells us how to apply cowboy wisdom to our everyday management challenges. Serving up straight forward, practical advice, the book deals with issues of dealing with conflict, strategic thinking, ethics, having fun at work, hiring and firing, building strong teams, and knowing when to run from trouble. A unique (and fun!) approach to management training, Wingtips with Spurs is a must read whether you are new to management or a grizzled veteran.Human Resources & Personnel Management Books
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