This month, IoH Youth Council member, Sian Rann MIH reviews ‘Leadership is a Relationship: How to put people first in the digital world’ by Michael Erwin and Willys DeVoll.
Championing the power of human connection, this book offers a refreshing viewpoint on leadership and makes a compelling case that human connection is fundamental.
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‘Leadership is a Relationship: How to put people first in the digital world’ by Michael Erwin and Willys DeVoll | Review by Sian Rann MIH
“As you confront the challenges of your life and our shared world, choose to walk with others.”
In the 1950s, sociologists David Riesman, Nathan Glazer and Reuel Denney published a study entitled “The Lonely Crowd”. Their analysis of Western society posited that the erosion of traditional moral frameworks rooted in family, religion and communal values, resulted in a populace increasingly susceptible to external pressures. This, they argued, hindered individuals’ capacity for self-understanding and, consequently, their ability to provide leadership.
People often confuse leaders and managers, but they are different. Leaders are all about vision, inspiration and setting the direction. They’re the ones who come up with the big ideas. Managers, on the other hand, are more focused on the day-to-day stuff, like making sure things get done and the team is running smoothly. Essentially, leaders are the captains of the ship, while managers are the ones making sure the ship is well maintained.
The shift away from the term ‘manager’ and towards ‘leader’ reflects a broader change in expectations. It’s no longer enough to simply tell people what to do; today’s leaders must enthuse and develop their teams. This requires dedication and practice; leadership is a skill that needs honing. Ultimately, it’s about galvanising others rather than exerting authority.
In an era dominated by data and digital metrics, ‘Leadership is a Relationship‘ offers a refreshing viewpoint. Authors Michael S. Erwin and Willys DeVoll make a compelling case for the primacy of human connection in good leadership. They argue that while technology is a powerful tool, it is the quality of relationships that truly drives organisational success.
Effective leadership is fundamentally about connection. While authority and position can command obedience, they do not arouse trust or loyalty. True leadership requires cultivating an environment where individuals feel valued, respected and psychologically safe. It’s about inspiring shared purpose rather than merely dictating direction.
We learn in Chapter Four: ‘The Vocabulary of Trust’ that regardless of whether you’re leading a remote or in-person team, the principles of servant leadership remain essential. Successful leaders must actively engage with their teams, fostering open communication and understanding. By being present, approachable and genuinely curious about team members’ experiences, leaders can gain valuable insights into their challenges and opportunities. This knowledge allows them to provide targeted support and create an environment where employees feel valued and empowered.
Chapter Five: ‘From Pie in the Sky to History’ is a timely reminder that leadership is not solely about achieving goals or maximising profits, but about building coalitions that stand the test of time. By showcasing real-world examples and relevant interviews, Erwin and DeVoll demonstrate how prioritising people can enhance organisational culture, boost employee morale, and ultimately drive business performance. The book also emphasises the importance of empathy, vulnerability and active listening in building strong relationships.
What truly distinguishes this book is its emphasis on the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. The authors boldly challenge the traditional, hierarchical model, instead advocating for a collaborative and compassionate approach. In today’s fast-paced and often impersonal business environment, this focus on human connection feels particularly invigorating and relevant.
Sian considers that ‘Leadership is a Relationship’ offers a refreshing perspective on leadership in our increasingly digital world. It challenges the traditional focus on numbers and metrics, instead championing the power of human connection. The book makes a strong case for building authentic relationships with your team, and it provides guidance through the actions of others on how to do that. Ultimately, it’s a roadmap for creating organisations that are not only successful but also fulfilling for everyone involved.
This review and rating is the opinion of the reviewer.
5 stars = Exceptional not to be missed | 4.5 stars = Essential read | 4 stars =Very good | 3 stars = Good | 2 stars = Poor | 1 star = Very poor
Suitability: This book is suitable for any hospitality professional at a management level or aspiring manager, who wants to understand how to become an improved leader.
This book fits into the Team and Leadership pillars under the IoH’s Five Pillars of Learning, a new approach to CPD professional learning and development based on the five core areas of hospitality management.
Record your CPD Hours: This book forms part of a member’s CPD hours. You can log your CPD hours here.
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