When Goliaths Clash: Managing Executive Conflict to Build a More Dynamic Organization

by Howard M. Guttman

Book Overview

"Conflict in the executive ranks often snakes its way down to the trenches, polarizing entire organizations and undermining morale, productivity, and corporate goals. But managed correctly, the... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0814407498
• ISBN13: 9780814407493
• Release Date: April 2003
• Publisher: Amacom
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.3" x 9.3"
• Age Range: 17 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

Great advice for senior and middle managers

When Goliaths Clash is full of great advice for managing confilict at the most senior levels of an organization. Since conflict is abundant at all levels in today's organization the same ideas can be applied to manage conflict at all levels. Gutman's advice to confront conflict, not avoid it, is valuable for all managers who want to move their organizations forward.

Insightful read for senior line, HR or OD executives

This book provides insight and understanding into the powerful dynamics of executive teams. The methodology, frameworks and practical tools are highly useful in creating a higher level of functioning for teams, starting at the top of the organization. Specific examples and case scenarios illustrate how these techniques have contributed to more fulfilling and productive work dynamics in several reknowned organizations. Focusing on the core skills of influencing and conflict resolution, as well as situational leadership, the book outlines a 'road map' for improving the effectiveness of senior teams and their individual players.

Pratical guide to deal with orginizational conflicts!

Great book! A structured insight into human behavior, different management styles and interactions in organizations. Describes real life situations and - more importantly - how to deal with them. Some very thought-full suggestions on how to interact with others at work as well as privately. A practical guide on organizational development and it's role to become more successful. Is easy to read and digest. I'll certainly keep it close for reference when "Goliats clashes" in my company.

A New Perspective

I truly enjoyed When Goliaths Clash. I read it in two days and found it provided a deeper perspective on high performing teams. I personnally have been with organizations where senior management allows the "dead elephant head" to sit in the middle of the room and never, never address it. Howard Guttman is right on target with his perspectives and reinforces his research with lively, real life stories. I highly recommend this book to leaders who want to take their organiztions, functions, or departments to the next level.

A break from traditional thinking.

"When Goliaths Clash" was a quick, enjoyable read which packed a punch in it's message.The perspectives offered by the author appear to run counter to traditional thinking about interpersonal conflict. I found myself challenged to review my personal view of conflict and how I deal with it in a business context.I particularly enjoyed the authors, 'real life', observations of how conflict has impacted the many referenced business leaders and their organizations. These references added life to the material and set a good backdrop for it's presentation. Since my reading of this book, I have had the opportunity to apply some of what is offered. I can attest to my surprise in just how powerful and positive my team's results were. Not only did our business issues get addressed but, relationships amongst team members shifted for the better.My copy was borrowed, so I bought an extra one. That book lasted in my office for two days before it also was borrowed.Obviously, people in my company are enjoying the message.This is a book for all levels of management and a good addition to a manager's library. So, either hide your copy or buy enough to share.