How do you think your childhood dream has influenced your life and career choices?
To be honest, I didn’t really have any strong childhood dreams. It was only when I reached my 30s that I suddenly found my passion for understanding how to achieve high-performance teamwork, and then focussed on this passion to make my dreams a reality, by helping as many individuals and teams as I could.
Did you pursue a career or profession that is related to your childhood dream? If not, why?
Not really, after completing my studies at school, I joined a bank. It was during my career in the bank that I realised what I was passionate about, teamwork and leadership.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Simply loved and appreciated by family and friends for being me.
What are the most common challenges faced by team leaders, and how do you overcome them?
Lack of learning and development in how to lead others. In a survey I undertook, 70% of those in leadership roles, have had no formal training in how to lead a team before taking up the role. Subsequently, 60% of those have had no subsequent leadership development, which is quite frightening.
What sets your writing apart from others in your genre?
There are a lot of books about leadership but not many about teamwork, and the honest fact is that there are more team members than leaders. I wrote Team Lead Succeed to be a practical learning resource to help both team members and leaders to better understand teamwork, and have a voice when things weren’t going as well as they could. Also it stands apart as it is very practical, and includes real-life stories and suggestions that can be implemented effectively and efficiently.
What sets your approach to business writing apart from others in your field?
I set myself apart, due to my writing style, which I have feedback that it is very personable, as though I am writing just for you. Also Team Lead Succeed is based on my experience of helping leaders and teams succeed for over 30 years. It is also the only book that I am aware of, that explores 16 different areas of teamwork.
How do you decide what topics to write about?
I shared my idea for the book with about 30 potential readers of the book, both team members and leaders, prior to writing it, to gauge whether it would be of value. They all said yes. Prior to publication, I shared each of the 21-chapters to get feedback and make any changes suggested.
How important is networking in building a successful career in writing?
I think networking is important. The key is networking with the right people, in the right way, whether it be fact (should be face not fact) to face or via social media and video conferencing.
Can you walk us through your writing process? How do you go from an idea to a finished book?
I created a plan for each chapter using Excel. What was the objective of the chapter? What was the learning I would include? What story would bring it to life, and what suggestions would I include?
How did you handle writer's block or challenges during the writing process of your book, "Team Lead Succeed"?
Our beloved Greek rescue dog, Zippo, who we had had for 10 years, sadly passed away whilst I was writing it. I did not write anything for 2 months, as I used to get my ideas whilst walking him. One day, my wife suggested that I dedicate the book to Zippo, and that was the idea that got me writing again, and why the book is dedicated to him.
What do you enjoy most about being a writer? Are there any particular moments or experiences that stand out for you?
The most enjoyment is when I find out from readers, that is making a positive difference to their teamwork, leadership, or both. My goal when I wrote it was not to personally profit from it however, for those who read it to profit from it. Since publication, I have experienced many different things that have made wonderful memories, that wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t written it.
How has the writing industry changed since you first started writing, and how have you adapted to those changes?
As this is my first book, the industry hasn’t changed a great deal since I started writing in March 2020. What I have realised however, is how much money some authors and publishing companies invest in marketing their book to get it in front of readers, and the “interesting” techniques to get it to best seller or No. 1. I am pleased to say that Team Lead Succeed has been successful on merit alone, based on the extremely positive feedback from those who have read and reviewed it.
With 30 years of experience leading teams, what are the most important qualities of a successful team leader?
The most successful leaders I know, demonstrate what I call Empathic Strategic Leadership, “doing right by their people, for the business.” They demonstrate honesty and integrity, whilst also being visionary.
Can you discuss any upcoming projects or books that you are currently working on?
I am working on an exciting project that will complement Team Lead Succeed, and further help leaders, teams and organisations to achieve even greater success. This should happen by Q3 of this year.
What compelled you to join AllAuthor? What do you think of the website so far?
A friend in the publishing industry suggested I join AllAuthor, especially as I was self-published, with limited time and investment to market my book as much as I would like. Based on my experience, I would totally recommend it as a good investment. It is easy to use and is effective and efficient in raising the profile of you as an author, and also your book.
