Each Monday we want to highlight a book for your consideration. As the subtitle suggests, The Ascent of a Leader is a book addressing how ordinary relationships are involved in developing character and influence as leaders. The authors are Thrall, McNicol and McElrath.

We will not make the post a book review, nor is it the intent. We do want consider a brief snippet for reading these books.

The book addresses two ladders regarding leadership. The first is the capacity ladder. The idea is one where leaders are striving to get ahead regardless of the cost. Relationships are only viewed with a perspective of how the relationship will benefit the leader in ascending to a greater position.

The second is the character ladder. The idea is one where an environment of grace exists. It is a ladder where character is developed and emphasized in leadership. Relationships grow stronger because there is an atmosphere where people feel safe to express their views, or even when mistakes are made.

The book has a number of powerful suggestions to assist in leadership development and is worth the time to read.