Summary
Confidence argues that a fundamental principle, confidence, distinguishes consistent winners from those who stumble, regardless of talent or resources. Rosabeth Moss Kanter's investigation across diverse fields—corporations, governments, relationships, sports teams, education, healthcare, and politics—reveals this principle drives both individual and organizational success. The book provides a prescriptive program for leaders to cultivate and maintain winning streaks or reverse downward spirals.
Kanter demonstrates why talented organizations falter by examining the underlying dynamics of confidence. Drawing on case studies like Continental Airlines, Verizon, the New England Patriots, and the Philadelphia Eagles, she offers practical, actionable insights for fostering sustained success. Readers gain an understanding of the specific factors that contribute to or detract from a winning trajectory, applicable to any competitive arena.
Key concepts
- Confidence — The fundamental principle that differentiates consistent winners from those who repeatedly falter.
- Winning streak — A sustained period of success driven by specific organizational and individual behaviors.
- Downward spiral — A sustained period of failure that can be reversed through strategic intervention.
- Prescriptive program — Actionable strategies provided for leaders to cultivate and maintain success.
From the book
Description: From the locker room to the living room to the boardroom—how winners become winners . . . and stay that way. Is success simply a matter of money and talent? Or is there another reason why some people and organizations always land on their feet, while others, equally talented, stumble again and again? There’s a fundamental principle at work–confidence–that makes the difference between winning and losing in any competition, be it a high school basketball game or a high-stakes business situation. In Confidence, Harvard Business School professor Rosabeth Moss Kanter shows why organizations of all types may be brimming with talent but not be winners. Based on her extraordinary investigation of success and failure in companies such as Continental Airlines and Verizon and sports…
Snippet: In Confidence, Harvard Business School professor Rosabeth Moss Kanter shows why organizations of all types may be brimming with talent but not be winners.