In Service of Giants and Industry Titans: How to Lead and Support Great Leaders

In a world awash with literature that lionizes the primary leader—the charismatic visionary, the transformative CEO, the inspirational speaker—this book aims to shift the focus. It turns the spotlight onto the unsung heroes, the individuals who operate in the critical but often overshadowed roles that make leadership effective. Specifically, "In Service of Giants" is tailored for those in second-in-command positions, advisors to key decision-makers, and individuals in middle management. But it's not limited to these roles; it's also for anyone who finds themselves in a position to support and elevate others, regardless of title or status.

The breadth of this book is designed to be as varied and complex as the roles it addresses. We delve into the characteristics that make a great supporting leader, from emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire trust, to the highly practical skills of problem-solving and crisis management. We also explore the intricacies of relationship dynamics—how to be a sounding board for your leader without becoming an echo chamber, how to challenge effectively without undermining authority, and how to contribute meaningfully to the vision while still making room for other perspectives.

This book will also venture into the strategies that supporting leaders can employ to elevate their teams and organizations. It covers a range of topics from building a complementary skill set and filling leadership gaps, to navigating organizational politics for the betterment of the team’s objectives. Moreover, the book will dissect the elements that contribute to long-term success in a supporting role, such as resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset.

Additionally, the book will be enriched by real-world case studies that offer a nuanced understanding of the role of supporting leaders across industries. These cases serve to underline the pivotal impact that can be achieved when a competent second-in-command or advisor is part of the equation. These are not just anecdotes, but lessons drawn from the trenches, providing tangible takeaways that you can apply in your own professional life.

In summary, the scope of this book is both broad and deep, aiming to be a comprehensive guide for those who aspire to excel in supporting roles. Whether you’re directly under the leader or part of the broader ecosystem that influences an organization's success, this book offers insights, strategies, and practical advice to help you flourish while aiding others in their climb to the summit. It’s about making you the best second-in-command, advisor, or middle manager you can be, thereby ensuring that the leaders you serve reach their highest potential.

The central purpose of "In Service of Giants" is straightforward yet deeply impactful: to furnish you with the insights, strategies, and real-world examples that will empower you to become a more effective leader behind the leader. Whether you serve as a second-in-command, an advisor, or find yourself in middle management, this book aims to be your guide to excelling in these often underestimated but critically important roles.

This isn't just about becoming a more effective follower or assistant. It's about redefining what it means to be a supporting leader—someone who not only helps execute a vision but also actively contributes to its formation and refinement.

In providing this comprehensive guide, the book will equip you with the tools you need to amplify your impact in a supporting role, helping you to contribute to your organization's success while also achieving personal growth and career advancement. Through a rich tapestry of case studies, practical advice, and actionable strategies, "In Service of Giants" aims to elevate the science and art of being the indispensable leader behind the leader.