A Sense of Urgency

John P. Kotter

Sep 2008 · Harvard Business Press

About this ebook

Most organizational change initiatives fail spectacularly (at worst) or deliver lukewarm results (at best). In his international bestseller Leading Change, John Kotter revealed why change is so hard, and provided an actionable, eight-step process for implementing successful transformations. The book became the change bible for managers worldwide.

Now, in A Sense of Urgency, Kotter shines the spotlight on the crucial first step in his framework: creating a sense of urgency by getting people to actually see and feel the need for change.

Why focus on urgency? Without it, any change effort is doomed. Kotter reveals the insidious nature of complacency in all its forms and guises.

In this exciting new book, Kotter explains:

· How to go beyond "the business case" for change to overcome the fear and anger that can suppress urgency

· Ways to ensure that your actions and behaviors -- not just your words -- communicate the need for change

· How to keep fanning the flames of urgency even after your transformation effort has scored some early successes

Written in Kotter's signature no-nonsense style, this concise and authoritative guide helps you set the stage for leading a successful transformation in your company.

Ratings and reviews

Wasn't blown away, wasn't super disappointed. Some good information in here, and some 'yeah no kidding, Professor Harvard' information. I personally like business / leadership books that are more data driven and less anecdotal, so take that into consideration when you see this review. I think his perspective and the point he makes are certainly worth reading and considering, I just didn't get a real sense of the case being made in this book. That could honestly just be on me though, sometimes I'm an idiot.

A classic book to drive a business or your personal life to focus on the things that matter and to act in thoughtful time.

This book was extremely relevant and easy to understand. It was written well, easy to follow, and easy to stay engaged with. The writer did a great job recapping the main points throughout the chapter and at the end. I liked the use of real stories.

About the author

John P. Kotter is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. He is the Konosuke Matashusita Professor of Leadership at the Harvard Business School and was one of the youngest people in Harvard history to receive full professorship. Kotter's works include Power and Influence: Beyond Formal Authority, The Leadership Factor and Corporate Culture and Performance.