In a sea of leadership books, How to Be a Great Boss by Sheldon Howe is a refreshing and practical guide—especially for those newer to leadership or looking to sharpen their people-management skills. Self-published in 2025, this book may not carry the polish of a major publishing house, but it more than makes up for it with clarity, relevance, and actionable advice.
Discovered while browsing the new release section of an online bookstore, this title was an unexpected gem. While the formatting and design may lack the finesse of traditionally published works, the content quickly proves its worth. Howe’s writing is direct and accessible, making it easy for busy professionals to absorb and apply the lessons without wading through jargon or theory-heavy chapters.
What sets this book apart is its practicality. Rather than focusing on abstract leadership philosophies, Howe zeroes in on the day-to-day realities of being a boss. He offers clear guidance on how to build trust, delegate effectively, communicate with impact, and handle difficult conversations—all essential skills for anyone managing people. The advice is grounded in real-world experience and supported by thoughtful research, making it both credible and relatable.
One of the book’s strengths is its focus on empowering others. Howe encourages leaders to shift their mindset from control to enablement—helping team members grow, take ownership, and make decisions confidently. This aligns well with modern leadership thinking, where influence and support often matter more than authority and oversight.
The book also includes helpful tools and frameworks, such as self-assessments, checklists, and reflection prompts. These make it easy for readers to evaluate their current leadership style and identify areas for growth. For newer leaders, this is especially valuable—it provides structure without being prescriptive, and guidance without being overwhelming.
Howe’s tone throughout is encouraging and grounded. He doesn’t present himself as a guru, but rather as a guide—someone who’s walked the path and wants to help others succeed. This makes the book feel personal and approachable, which is ideal for readers who may be navigating the challenges of leadership for the first time.
For experienced leaders, How to Be a Great Boss may serve as a useful refresher—a reminder of the fundamentals that often get lost in the complexity of senior roles. For emerging leaders, it’s a practical playbook that can accelerate confidence and capability.
Final Thoughts
How to Be a Great Boss is a highly recommended read for anyone looking to grow as a leader. It’s especially valuable for those early in their journey, offering practical tools and mindset shifts that can make a real difference. While it may not have the polish of a bestseller, its substance and sincerity shine through. If you’re serious about becoming a better boss—not just in title, but in impact—this book is well worth your time.