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Expository Writing
Section: BSSEM-2B
Assignment #01
Group Member Names:
Unbreen Fatima SU92-BSSEM-F24-351
Ukasha Abid SU92-BSSEM-F24-147
M. Saqib Imran SU92-BSSEM-F24-109
M. Umar SU92-BSSEM-F24-088
M. Ahmad Naveed SU92-BSSEM-F24-149
Mujtaba SU92-BSSEM-F24-131
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Precis of Chapter 1
Title: Our Style of Leadership Has Not But The World Has Changed
The chapter opens with Peter Drucker’s observation that the most significant change in our
era is the unprecedented shift in the human condition, where people now have more choices
and must learn to manage themselves—a challenge society is unprepared for. The author,
reflecting on seminars with his late father, notes a universal consensus: most employees
possess untapped talent and face increasing pressure to produce more with less, yet are often
restricted from fully utilizing their abilities. This gap between potential and performance, as
Mahatma Gandhi noted, could solve many of the world’s problems.
The author argues that traditional Command & Control leadership, effective during the
industrial age, is now outdated and ineffective in today’s complex, rapidly changing world.
The nature of work, the workplace, and the workforce have evolved, requiring a new
leadership style—Trust & Inspire—that aligns with modern realities. This approach focuses
on empowering people, fostering collaboration, and inspiring innovation, rather than
micromanaging or controlling them.
The chapter identifies Five Emerging Forces shaping our world:
1. Technological Disruption: Rapid advancements in AI, robotics, and other
technologies are transforming industries and societies.
2. Changing Nature of Work: Work is increasingly knowledge-based, collaborative,
and creative, requiring more mental engagement.
3. Evolving Workplace: Remote and hybrid work models are becoming the norm,
breaking traditional office structures.
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4. Diverse Workforce: The workforce is more diverse than ever, with multiple
generations and cultures bringing different expectations and perspectives.
5. Expanded Choices: People now have near-infinite options in their careers and
lifestyles, demanding workplaces that offer meaning and trust.
The author emphasizes two Epic Imperatives for organizations: creating a high-trust culture
to attract and retain talent, and fostering collaboration and innovation to stay relevant in the
marketplace. Leaders must move away from transactional, carrot-and-stick motivation and
instead inspire intrinsic motivation, tapping into people’s inner drive and potential.
The chapter contrasts Command & Control leadership, which focuses on compliance and
efficiency, with Trust & Inspire leadership, which fosters commitment, creativity, and long-
term growth. Command & Control leaders manage people like things, while Trust & Inspire
leaders lead by empowering and inspiring individuals. The latter approach is more effective
in today’s world, where people seek purpose, autonomy, and connection.
Examples like Microsoft’s transformation under CEO Satya Nadella illustrate the power of
Trust & Inspire leadership. Nadella revitalized Microsoft’s culture by fostering trust,
collaboration, and innovation, leading to significant growth and employee satisfaction.
Similarly, a school principal’s shift from Command & Control to Trust & Inspire resulted in
improved morale, collaboration, and student performance.
The chapter concludes by asserting that leadership is a choice, not a position. Anyone,
regardless of their role, can adopt a Trust & Inspire mindset to positively influence those
around them. By focusing on trust, inspiration, and the potential within people, leaders can
bridge the gap between performance and potential, creating meaningful and lasting impact in
an ever-changing world.
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Reference
Covey, S. M. R. (2022). Trust and inspire
