Paul Thornton is generously giving away 20 electronic versions of his latest book, Leadership Skills: Boost Your Effectiveness.
This post provides a small sample of the practical skills Paul shares.
Leave a comment to become eligible for your copy.
Deadline for eligibility: 11/09/25
7 Simple Skills
Leadership isn’t magic. It’s a set of simple skills practiced well.
You don’t need a title to lead because leadership is a way of living.
#1. Ask Better Questions
Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell’s, turned a struggling company around by asking, “What’s getting in the way of you doing your best work?”
Great leaders aren’t know-it-alls; they’re ask-it-alls.
#2. Listen Quietly
Terry Gross (NPR’s Fresh Air) listens between the lines. She says silence works like a magnet that draws out truth.
When you stop talking, people start trusting.
#3. Communicate Simply
Ronald Reagan earned the title “The Great Communicator” because he made complex things simple.
Know the goal of your words before you open your mouth.
#4. Coach for Growth
Bill Gates said, “Everyone needs a coach… that’s how we improve.”
Coaching isn’t fixing people; it’s helping people craft a path forward.
#5. Delegate to Aspiration
When you keep every task, you steal growth from others.
Delegation says, “I trust you to carry this.”
#6. Manage Time Like Your Life Depends on It
Warren Buffett said, “The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say no to almost everything.”
Think of a “no” as a “yes” to something more important.
#7. Lead Yourself
Paul Thornton wrote, “Leadership development occurs in real life, not just on paper.”
Simple skills, practiced daily, multiply your impact.
Ask. Listen. Communicate. Coach. Delegate. Focus. Lead yourself.
Leadership doesn’t get easier — you get better.
Which leadership skill is most relevant to you today?
