Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
HappinessYou’ll learn
- How to identify diminishers from multipliers
- Why diminishers harm collective achievement
- Strategies to foster team intelligence
- What a leader must do to amplify talent
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
Leaders who bring out the best in others
People have often described their meetings with the great British Prime Minister, William Ewart Gladstone, as challenging, leaving individuals feeling intellectually inferior. In contrast, Benjamin Disraeli, Gladstone's rival, had a knack for making people feel important and valued. They are two leaders from the same country, yet they have contrasting approaches. How can this be?Benjamin Disraeli is well known for his ability to bring out the best in others. Is this a trait unique to him? Not exactly. Leaders like him, referred to as “Multipliers” by Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown, exist worldwide. Broadly speaking, a leader is either a Multiplier or a Diminisher. The titles have probably provided an overview of each category, but let's dig deeper.Many things differentiate Multipliers from Diminishers; one of them is their perception of intelligence. Multipliers see intelligence as something that can be cultivated in others. They don't believe in the concept of a “dumb” person.
Recognize and address your team members' challenges and aspirations.
On the other hand, Diminishers hold a skewed view of intelligence, perceiving only a select few, including themselves, as truly intelligent. Diminishers believe others will never figure things out without them, making them think their intelligence is an excuse to be oppressive and controlling. Furthermore, Diminishers find it difficult to trust people to complete a given task and are quick to criticize any signs of struggle or failure.This summary focuses on multipliers, leaders who amplify the intelligence of those around them. It explores why and how these leaders enhance the capabilities of everyone around them. It also describes how to apply the multiplication logic to maximize underutilized people and multiply intelligence without requiring a huge investment. Curious already? This is just the beginning.
second KEY POINT
Five practices of a great leader
In some cases, diminishers and multipliers work in similar ways. For example, both seek intelligent individuals and view themselves as leaders. However, five distinct disciplines and practices set multipliers apart from diminishers.Multipliers, unlike diminishers:• Attract and optimize talentMultipliers lead by assisting individuals in discovering their talents and putting them to use. Conversely, diminishers focus on personal gains, acting as empire builders who aim to own and control resources for increased productivity. In short, the diminisher is a private empire builder, while the multiplier builds other people.• Create intensity that requires thinkingMultipliers establish a distinctive and highly stimulating work atmosphere, providing everyone the freedom to excel. They function as liberators, a comfortable and safe environment for their team. But diminishers are tyrannical, making life challenging and stressful for their subordinates.• Extend challengesMultipliers operate as challengers by creating more opportunities, while diminishers adopt a know-it-all approach, always wanting to showcase their knowledge because they believe no one else knows better.• Debate decisionsMultipliers encourage others to contribute and debate an issue before making decisions. Diminishers don't give room for debate; they make decisions independently, leaving the organization in the dark.• Instill ownership and accountabilityMultipliers maintain success by serving as investors; they inspire commitment from others. In contrast, diminishers jump to conclusions, taking charge of every decision or profit.
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first KEY POINT
Cultivate your interest in others
second KEY POINT
Be the challenger, not the know-it-all
third KEY POINT
Involve the team in decision-making
fourth KEY POINT
Getting results without your direct involvement
fifth KEY POINT
Conclusion
Related summaries
Frequently asked questions
What is 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter' about?
'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter' by Liz Wiseman explores how effective leaders amplify the intelligence and capabilities of their teams. The book identifies two types of leaders—Multipliers, who empower and elevate others, and Diminishers, who stifle growth. It offers practical insights on fostering team contributions and maximizing potential.
What are the key takeaways from 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter'?
Key takeaways from 'Multipliers' include understanding the five disciplines that distinguish Multipliers from Diminishers, the importance of creating an environment of learning, and how asking insightful questions can stimulate growth in others. The book emphasizes that great leaders focus on developing their team's talents to create smarter and more effective workplaces.
Is 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter' worth reading?
Yes, 'Multipliers' is widely regarded as a valuable resource for leaders at all levels. It provides actionable strategies for enhancing team performance and developing a culture of innovation, making it a practical read for anyone looking to improve their leadership skills.
How many pages is 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter' and when was it published?
'Multipliers' has 288 pages and was published on April 18, 2010. This comprehensive work offers in-depth insights into the dynamics of leadership and team intelligence.
Who is the author of 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter'?
The book 'Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter' is authored by Liz Wiseman. She is a leadership consultant and researcher known for her expertise in effective team management and leadership dynamics.