The Case of the Missing Cutlery

Exercise 1

The Hero

Buoyancy is a phenomenon whereby, as a leader, you float, because the people you have inspired believe you should. They believe in you because you have understood, connected with, and ignited the deep desire that lies in their hearts.

Once Upon a Time

My formative years at Marriott led me to the bare-knuckled world of advertising giant McCann Erickson. While learning the ropes of international advertising from one of my mad men bosses, I noted a sign on his desk:

Mike’s Two Rules of Management:

1. Do what I tell you or else.

2. See rule number 1.

I thought the sign was one of those “You don’t have to be crazy to work here, but it helps” novelties. But I realized quickly as I came to know Mike, and indeed McCann, that ...