You know the individual who begins every joke with "stop me if you've heard this"? This line first cane to mind upon my putting down Nick Grono's How to LEAD Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World published by Matt Holt Books.
Overall, this volume (only 244 pages) is basically a self-reflection by the author, Nick Grono who appears to have had the really good fortune to have worked for and/or being in charge of international organizations that are meant to serve some of those who face the most challenging and troubling situations in the world. Admittedly his opportunities represent a niche that few get to experience.
Good for him. And, good for those who want to read stories that highlight what execs running these types of organizations experience. And this is where my praise wanes. But before getting too critical I have to give a pause by noting that Jim Collins, Author of Good to Great and the Social Sector and one of the most practical instructions on nonprofit management, identifies How to Lead as a "clear road map for social sector leadership" and "one that can help any nonprofit CEO who seeks to transform inspired purpose into a powerful flywheel of a tangible impact".
Alas, I did not reach the same conclusion about How to Lead. Yes, the story telling is great and the writing is very solid. But the "lessons" are wanting in substance where they don't essentially echo the words of the likes of Jim Collins, Peter Drucker and Peter Block. So let's take a closer look to see if you think there's something more to learn.
How to Lead is divided into three sections: Purpose, People, and, Partners. The lessons: have a clear purpose and a strategy; get the right people on the bus (sound familiar?) while attending to culture, diversity and the board; and be transactional and relational with program beneficiaries, funders, and partners.
What is the "new" you see here? Yes, there are some very interesting stories about international service nonprofits. "Clear road map for social sector leadership"? Worth $30?