This month, IoH Youth Council member, Jake Cameron AIH, reviews Leadership, Reinvented by Hamza Khan.
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I picked up Leadership, Reinvented by Hamza Khan, because I wanted a fresh take on what it means to lead in today’s workplace. The book builds on Khan’s TEDx talk “Stop Managing, Start Leading,” which I also recommend, and focuses on empathy, servitude, diversity, and innovation—what he calls the S.I.D.E. framework. Immediately, it felt relevant to the hospitality industry, where leadership isn’t just about delegation or giving out tasks and orders, but about connecting with people.
The book goes through each part of S.I.D.E in detail. I found the sections on empathy and servitude especially useful; it made me think about how leaders can support their teams in a practical and deeply connecting way, not just talk about “being nice.” Khan also gives examples and exercises that are easy to follow, which makes the advice feel realistic rather than a lecture. His points on innovation and diversity were a good reminder that leadership isn’t one size fits all and that a mix of perspectives strengthens teams.
Hospitality Industry Relevant
In hospitality, teamwork and guest experience are everything. The ideas in this book really hit home; empathy and servitude, for example, aren’t just skills; they directly impact how a team works together and how guests feel. Reading this, I could imagine ways to apply these lessons to everyday work, like supporting colleagues, encouraging new ideas, and being more inclusive in decision-making.
Final Thoughts
What I liked most about the book is that it isn’t heavy. It’s easy to read, practical, and gives you things you can try out for yourself. For someone starting in hospitality or looking to grow as a leader, it makes you stop and think about how you show up for your team and how you can refine your leadership skills.
Conclusion
Leadership, Reinvented is inspiring without feeling intimidating or overwhelming. It’s full of ideas that make you want to lead differently—more human, more thoughtful, more effective and of course more empathetic. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to make a real difference in their workplace, especially young professionals or those stepping into leadership roles for the first time.
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: Young professionals and emerging leaders in hospitality.
This book fits into the Leadership pillar under the IoH’s Five Pillars of Learning, an approach to continuing professional 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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