Leaders Eat Last

Notes From Your Bookseller

This book is not just for leaders aspiring to better themselves; it’s for anyone looking to improve their interpersonal skills, career path, and maybe even the world.

Finally in paperback: the New York Times bestseller by the acclaimed, bestselling author of Start With Why and Together is Better. Now with an expanded chapter and appendix on leading millennials, based on Simon Sinek’s viral video „Millenials in the workplace“ (150+ million views).

Imagine a world where almost everyone wakes up inspired to go to work, feels trusted and valued during the day, then returns home feeling fulfilled. This is not a crazy, idealized notion. Today, in many successful organizations, great leaders create environments in which people naturally work together to do remarkable things.

In his work with organizations around the world, Simon Sinek noticed that some teams trust each other so deeply that they would literally put their lives on the line for each other. Other teams, no matter what incentives are offered, are doomed to infighting, fragmentation and failure. Why?

The answer became clear during a conversation with a Marine Corps general. „Officers eat last,“ he said. Sinek watched as the most junior Marines ate first while the most senior Marines took their place at the back of the line. What’s symbolic in the chow hall is deadly serious on the battlefield: Great leaders sacrifice their own comfort-even their own survival-for the good of those in their care.

Too many workplaces are driven by cynicism, paranoia, and self-interest. But the best ones foster trust and cooperation because their leaders build what Sinek calls a „Circle of Safety“ that separates the security inside the team from the challenges outside.

Sinek illustrates his ideas with fascinating true stories that range from the military to big business, from government to investment banking.

Editorial Reviews

12/01/2015
Sinek suggests that building a secure and interesting working life for employees may translate into profits for the company because it empowers employees to make wise decisions. Although most of the insights here are pointed at CEOs in large companies, when a company includes only three people it is of utmost importance that they all pull together.
– Library Journal