Impact by TIm Irwin Book Review (FlyBy Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

I read Impact: Great Leadership Changes Everything by Tim Irwin, in exchange for honest review from FlyBy Blog Promotions. I wanted to review the book because leadership affects everyone. The book also taps into my business management degree. I loved leadership classes as an undergrad, along with critical thinking.


Both good leaders and bad leaders influence people's attitude and behavior. The book is not an easy read. The book seems to be written from a business perspective. The book is also not a quick read. Read slowly to allow the material to sink through and reflect on the information provided.

One of the first passages, which stood out, was in the foreword, written by Mark Albers, senior vice president for Exxon:

" The problem is that many leaders are not having the impact they intend. They get in their own way and blunt the impact they would have. Often it is not because they are not smart enough or knowledgeable enough of a particular issue. Instead they have drifted from the core principles that initially guided them as they moved through increasing levels of responsibility, authority, and power." (p. xiii). 

Another thing, which stood out was on page 4, where Irwin discussed how some people follow leaders to comply with orders, while others follow leaders because they are committed to leadership. The leaders are trusted. Leaders simply can not inspire people to the company mission anymore. Leaders have to do more. They need a purpose. Leaders need a personal style. On Page 10, Irwin discusses a leader's style, which is one of the three faces of leadership (core, conduct, and style). Style is how a "leader presents herself to others..." (p. 10). Style includes behavior, dress, and charisma.

Leaders also need a solid foundation. Great leadership does not start overnight. Leaders will make and learn from mistakes. Leadership requires self-examination and self-regulation. Leaders have to be careful of their words and actions because it affects their impact.

The book was a great read. The book is available in hardback and kindle edition on Amazon. The book is prime eligible.

About the author (from media kit)

Dr. Tim Irwin has been an advisor to global leaders. He also has been featured on Christian readio programs. Irwin sees one central issue anytime a leader “derails”—he believes they have a defect in their “core”, which Irwin says goes beyond the overused term “character”. His new book, Impact, addresses this and gives actionable ways leaders can protect themselves, and better serve their organizations—especially crucial for those of us who serve in ministry and are walking a Christian walk.

You may find a good amount of executive talk in this book, and that may or may not apply to you, but we are all called to lead in some capacity, so whatever your role may be I hope you're making an impact!

Social Media

Website
Personal Leadership Assessment (Great test. Must complete in one sitting. Also need to create an account. Test will time out after inactivity.)
Facebook Fan Page
Twitter