Hot & Cool Blog

How to Identify 'Open Leader' Types

Charlene Li shares her thoughts on the essential features and value of 'Open Leaders'. To explain the concept, she puts people in the (familiar) 2x2 matrix, with Collaborative or Independent on one axis, and Pessimist or Optimist on the other. Simple matrixes like this are effective because they engage both visual and traditional readers, even if there's a risk of over-simplification.

These give 4 different types of leaders:

• Cautious Tester (a Collaborative Pessimist)
• Worried Sceptic (an Independent Pessimist)
• Transparent Evangelist (an Independent Optimist)
• Realist Optimist (a Collaborative Optimist)

Here's a short video in which she explains the model:

NEW: Professional Books & DVDs

Enjoy the new professional libraries of books, DVDs and CDs, all together on these pages:

Browse through:

• Professional Cookery Books, DVDs & Recordings
• Wine Books & DVDs
• Beer Central: Books & DVDs
• Hospitality Training & Education Books

All easy to order at any time 24/7.

Exposed - the man behind WaiterRant

The man behind the industry's favourite blog WaiterRant has finally been photographed - at his book-signing (and they're never how you expect them to be). Let the publicity tour begin...

The restaurant addiction - incurable?

The anonymous writer of Waiter Rant is about to have his cover blown - his book Thanks for the Tip--Confessions of a Cynical Waiter will appear shortly. He's handed in his notice but wonders if he can ever really quit...

"Someone recently told me that quitting the restaurant business is like quitting smoking. You may think you’ve quit forever – but there’s always the possibility you’ll suffer a relapse.

Maybe I could help pharmaceutical companies develop a patch that transmits a daily dose of aggravation, sexual harassment, unfair labor practices, excitement, boredom, high pressure, late night snacking, customer entitlement, nicotine, greasy staff meals, alcohol, sleeping late, and tooth decay though the skin. Slap that sucker on your arm and it’ll be like you never left!"

I'll miss the stories - some of the best and wittiest writing from the trenches.

Gordon Ramsay bandwagon

We've jumped on board with a new page to track his planned Australian TV Show.

Plus a listing of all his books and DVDs available in the UK and USA - always the cheapest way to buy. And we haven't forgotten the mild-mannered Jamie Oliver...