It Worked for Me audiobook cover - In Life and Leadership

It Worked for Me

In Life and Leadership

Colin Powell with Tony Koltz

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It Worked for Me
13 Rules of Leadership+
Outstanding Leader Attributes+
Treating the Team Right+
Dealing with Problems+
Handling Meetings+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 8
According to Colin Powell's 13 rules, why is it crucial to separate your ego from your position?
  • A. It ensures that your followers will not challenge your authority.
  • B. It prevents your self-esteem from being damaged when you make a mistake.
  • C. It allows you to delegate tasks more efficiently without feeling threatened.
  • D. It keeps you grounded so you do not demand special privileges.
Question 2 of 8
Powell asserts that 'perpetual optimism can multiply your forces.' However, what does he say must accompany this optimism for it to be truly effective?
  • A. Strict disciplinary measures
  • B. Financial incentives
  • C. Investment in training and preparation
  • D. A charismatic public speaking style
Question 3 of 8
What does Colin Powell mean when he refers to the 'pottery barn rule' in leadership?
  • A. Leaders must be careful not to disrupt the established culture of an organization.
  • B. Leaders should handle their subordinates with extreme care and fragility.
  • C. If a leader makes a momentous decision and things go wrong, they must take full ownership of the outcome.
  • D. A leader's legacy is shaped by the physical resources they leave behind.
Question 4 of 8
In the context of evaluating decisions, what is the primary purpose of an After-Action Review (AAR) in the Army?
  • A. To assign a formal grade to a subordinate's performance.
  • B. To identify which team member is responsible for a failure.
  • C. To justify the budget and resources spent on an operation.
  • D. To assess past actions and learn what is needed to improve future results.
Question 5 of 8
How does Powell advise leaders to behave once it is time for them to step down from their position?
  • A. Maintain honorary positions to provide ongoing guidance to the new leadership.
  • B. Close the door firmly behind them and let go entirely without keeping ties.
  • C. Continue attending formal meetings to ease the transition for the team.
  • D. Offer unsolicited advice only when the organization faces a major crisis.
Question 6 of 8
What anecdote does Powell share to demonstrate the profound impact of trusting your team?
  • A. Allowing two junior desk officers to brief President Bush without a rehearsal.
  • B. Giving a newly formed squad complete control over the annual budget.
  • C. Letting a low-ranking soldier lead a morning sync meeting for generals.
  • D. Approving a risky military operation based solely on a subordinate's intuition.
Question 7 of 8
How does Colin Powell suggest leaders should view the constant stream of problems brought to them by their team?
  • A. As an indication that subordinates lack the proper training to do their jobs.
  • B. As a sign of trust and respect, showing that followers believe in the leader's ability to help.
  • C. As a distraction that should be delegated entirely to middle management.
  • D. As a failure of the organization's standard operating procedures.
Question 8 of 8
According to the text, what is the recommended format for a morning sync meeting?
  • A. A formal, two-hour presentation with outlined agendas and briefing papers.
  • B. A strict review of the previous day's mistakes using the After-Action Review method.
  • C. A 30-minute informal chat to address pressing matters, where no one is forced to speak.
  • D. A brief, one-way announcement from the leader outlining the daily tasks for each team member.

It Worked for Me — Full Chapter Overview

It Worked for Me Summary & Overview

It Worked for Me (2012) imparts Colin Powell’s practical wisdom on becoming an effective leader. It’s largely based on his time in the military and public service, and the insights he gained from his experiences in these positions. 

Who Should Listen to It Worked for Me?

  • Experienced leaders looking to improve their leadership techniques
  • Military personnel who’d like to learn from a four-star general
  • Anyone who aspires to be a leader

About the Author: Colin Powell with Tony Koltz

Colin Powell was a four-star general of the US Army and the first African American secretary of state. In 2003, he published the New York Times best seller My American Journey with coauthor Joseph E. Persico. 

Tony Koltz is a writer who has coauthored several other military-focused books, including The Battle for Peace, Shadow Warriors, and Battle Ready. He also wrote two children’s books. 

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