Because - by Shannon Banks (Hardcover)

About the Book

The world is changing, and so should your leadership. In Because, Shannon Banks introduces a social leadership model with twelve key skills to revolutionize how-and why-you lead.

Book Synopsis

The world is changing, and so should your leadership.

While we often underestimate our influence, the truth is that as individuals, we have enormous power. We contribute not only by the work we do but by how we behave. When we live and lead in alignment with our purpose, we maximize our effectiveness.

This has never been more important than it is today. Rapid technology adoption, hybrid work, and more focus on responsible business practices make it imperative that we develop the essential people skills necessary for success. Organizations need leaders who have the capabilities, perspectives, and self-awareness to widen the scope from building a functional business to benefiting society.

Author Shannon Banks-managing director of Be Leadership and award-winning facilitator, consultant, and coach-is a pioneer in the field of social leadership. She is dedicated to supporting organizations on their path to positive impact and to helping leaders find purpose in their work and lives. In Because: 12 Essential Skills for Connecting How You Lead with Why, Banks introduces a social leadership model with twelve key skills to revolutionize how-and why-you lead. Throughout the book, calls to action and interactive assignments help you practice needed behaviors and define your leadership brand, ensuring you leave with new insights on how to be influential both in your work and your broader life.

A road map for enhancing your leadership skills and igniting your purpose, Because is an essential resource for leaders today.

Review Quotes

"Shannon Banks has defined the field of social leadership. From exemplifying great leadership at Microsoft to developing exceptional leaders across the globe, Shannon embodies what it means to be a social leader. Because translates her wisdom and experience into concrete, approachable steps, enabling and encouraging each of us to become more purpose-driven leaders. Every chapter delivers powerful insights and tools to lead more inclusive, innovative, and impactful teams."

-Matthew Kotler, partner group product manager at Microsoft

"Because the best book on leadership that I have read in the past twenty years! Banks provides both powerful theory and clear, practical exercises to help the reader become a successful leader who knows 'why' as well as 'how' to lead."

-Michael Marquardt, professor emeritus at George Washington University and cofounder of World Institute for Action Learning

"Because is a powerful and galvanizing book that will take every leader on their own inspiring and important journey. Shannon brings to life the opportunity for and responsibility of leaders to create positive change not just with their teams and organizations but with communities and, indeed, the world at large. With practical tools and tangible examples, this book enables leaders to know themselves better and to step into being a social leader, crafting and living out their own personal purpose and leadership brand. This book is a must for leaders, and the impact of social leadership is a must for society-because if every leader was a social leader, the world would be a better place."

-Claire Fox, founder and managing director of Claire Fox Coaching, former chief operating officer at UNICEF UK, and author of Work-Life Symbiosis: The Model for Happiness and Balance

"Shannon Banks is an incredible professional whose work motivates and challenges top managers worldwide. With her skills and patience, she aims to help managers be authentic and connect their reason for working to their reason for living."

-Claudia Belli, head of financial inclusion and relations with civil society at BNP Paribas

"It's one thing to be aware of the importance of strong connections, but it's quite another to cultivate them. In Because, Shannon Banks proposes a comprehensive yet pragmatic framework to help any leader or team turn that awareness into concrete actions. The improved connections bring better performance, motivation, and happiness."

-Peter Cauwelier, PhD, author and speaker, and Master Action Learning Coach at World Institute for Action Learning, Thailand

"Because is a practical guide for anyone looking for meaning in life. Shannon Banks has beautifully blended concepts in a way that motivates the reader and inspires action."

-Dr. Usman Javaid, chief products and marketing officer at Orange Business

"Shannon has perfected the art of combining inspiration and practicality with this book. Integrating the discussion of who we are as leaders with practical tools we can all use in our everyday work lives is just brilliant. A must read for any leader looking for their own 'why' and 'how' in order to create sustained impact."

-Angela McKenna, executive vice president of EMEA employee success at Salesforce