Based on a simple model, Be the Leader: Make the Difference provides a clear vision that managers can use to improve their leadership and management skills.

Thornton's overall message: you can inspire your employees to new levels of productivity, but to do so you must challenge them, give them the confidence to believe in their ability to meet that challenge, and then coach them to help through the process. This 3 C's model is the basis for Thornton's book, which offers excellent strategies for managing staff and insights into productivity problems that commonly develop in the workplace.

One nice thing about Thornton's approach is that he includes both theoretical explanations and comments from managers who are actually using the 3 C's model in their workplace. These stories are convincing, and help to relate theory to the real world of business.

As a business manager, one of the themes that really struck home with me was the need to put a stop to reverse delegation. Thornton is able to clearly explain why reverse delegation is common in the workplace, and offers clear solutions that will help managers reduce reverse delegation by helping their employees become more self-reliant.

Our conclusion? Be the Leader: Make the Difference is an excellent book that has outlined a clear path for managers who are looking to improve their leadership skills.