Smarter Decision-Making: Avoiding Poor Decisions through Effective Listening

by Louis J. Pepe

Overview

Avoiding poor decisions in any facet of life starts by truly listening for the meaning in the messages we receive. In today’s fast paced business environment: executives, managers and supervisors alike need to master the skill of effective listening to engage in smarter decision making. Smarter Decision-Making demonstrates the power of applied listening through focus, meaning and understanding context. The second part of the book gives depth to the importance of meaning. These practical insights are invaluable to any leader intent on achieving success and growth in their career.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781475854565
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	11/08/2019
Series:	Organizational Management
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	108
File size:	3 MB

About the Author

Louis J. Pepe is the Assistant Superintendent/CFO for the City of Summit Public Schools in Union County, New Jersey. He has more than 30 years of leadership experience between military, private and public service focused on leadership, management, operations and administration. Lou is a speaker, mentor and Adjunct Professor at Montclair State University. His knowledge and success has positioned him as a go-to resource for other professionals throughout the industry.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Preface

PART I: The Power of Applied Listening

Chapter 1: Focused Listening: Developing Listening Skills That Strengthen Understanding

Chapter 2: Considering ‘Meaning’ The Purpose of Meaning and How to Get There

Chapter 3: Considering Context and Avoiding Ambiguity

PART II: The Importance of Meaning

Chapter 4: Ready, Set, Listen: Why Most People Today Can Not Wait To Talk

Chapter 5: Credible Conversations That Matter: Say What You Mean and Do What You Say

Chapter 6: Considering Language Structure: Oral Language, Syntax, and Sentence Complexity

Chapter 7: Word Choice and Use: How to Get Your Point Across Effectively

Chapter 8: Thinking Together: Extending Meaning Through Discussion

Bibliography

Editorial Reviews

When we foster environments where individuals feel heard and their thoughts and ideas are welcomed, there is no limit to the possibilities. Louis Pepe has provided a framework by which any leader can in fact create such an environment. I encourage you to read this book and learn from Louis’ vast experience.

Angela Peterman

Broad appeal - Lou Pepe does not question for a moment the vital role the business office plays in any school district, that’s why Smarter Decision Making is a must-read for decision-makers in the field of education and beyond. Lou pulls on his many years of experience and his natural leadership skills to put strategies and techniques directly into the hands of any decision-maker that is fortunate to pick up this book.

Siobhán McMahon

How I wish I read this book before launching my own business! Louis Pepe draws on his long career as an educator, mentor and thought leader to articulate clearly, concisely, with even some great humor thrown in, the essential attributes for leading people and organizations to excel in the 21st century. Not only a fun read, but a must read for any individual in any role, whether leading a nonprofit, managing a Fortune 500 company, setting out on an entrepreneurial venture, or simply organizing a group of volunteers, to take listening, communication and setting examples to the next level. Read and profit!

David G. Dietze

Much has been written in the past ten years of how dwindling resources and increased accountability have changed the role and responsibilities of the school administrator. Lou Pepe has authored a “must-read” book for all educational leaders that reinforces essential skills such as communication, messaging, purpose, and teamwork. Each chapter includes practical applications of strategies that are supported by real-life examples. This book will be a valuable asset for any aspiring leader as well as provide reinforcement for the veteran administrator. Lou Pepe has done a magnificent job in writing a book that will assist all leaders in developing, maintaining, and communicating a clear vision to those they lead.

Michael D. Kuchar

Broad appeal - Lou Pepe does not question for a moment the vital role the business office plays in any school district, that’s why Smarter Decision Making is a must-read for decision-makers in the field of education and beyond. Lou pulls on his many years of experience and his natural leadership skills to put strategies and techniques directly into the hands of any decision-maker that is fortunate to pick up this book.

Siobhán McMahon