Make Someone's Day: Becoming a Memorable Leader in Work and Life

Howard H. Prager

Koehler Books, 208 pp., $21.95

In the age where empathy is one of the core competencies necessary for leaders to succeed, this book helps readers become purveyors of kindness. Prager's VIP Model equips readers with a four-step formula for leaving positive impressions on others. As the author points out, activating the VIP Model doesn't have to be difficult. It can be as simple as a smile. He also includes high-level discussions on particular personality types so that readers can best target their thoughtful acts and reduce backfires. Exercises and reflection prompts included in the book help readers practice what they learn.

What Every Leader Needs: The 10 Universal and Indisputable Competencies of Leadership Effectiveness

Adam C. Bandelli

Covenant Books, 208 pp., $16.95

Do you have what it takes to lead effectively? Bandelli, founder of a leadership advisory firm, contends that there are 10 traits germane to great leadership: vision, passion, commitment, vigilance, consistency, endurance, compassion, inspiration, innovation, and wisdom. He generated his comprehensive list of competencies from 20 years of leadership research. The leadership traits are skills that individuals can sharpen, and Bandelli tells readers how to do so. Moreover, the self-assessment opportunities are a value-add for readers looking to develop a personalized brand of leadership.