by David Gergen
First published 2000
David Gergen served four presidents across party lines from Nixon to Clinton. He watched power up close in the Oval Office and West Wing corridors. Gergen identifies seven traits that separate effective presidents from failed ones. Strong personal character forms the foundation. A clear moral vision guides decisions. Sharp political skills navigate Congress and coalitions. Media expertise shapes public opinion. Resilience helps leaders survive crises and setbacks. Sound judgment in picking advisors builds winning teams. The desire to leave a positive legacy drives long-term thinking. Gergen draws from decades inside the White House to show how these elements work together. He offers readers practical insights into leadership that apply beyond politics.
Genres: political-science, leadership, presidents, non-fiction, biography-memoir, 21st-century, academic, american-history
Vibes: informative, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: insider-perspective, practical-insights
Setting: Oval Office, West Wing
Period: 21st Century
6 pages · Audio Cassette · Soundelux Audio Pub