It's Your Ship - Captain D. Michael Abrashoff

It's Your Ship

By Captain D. Michael Abrashoff

  • Release Date: 2007-10-15
  • Genre: Management & Leadership
4.5 Score: 4.5 (From 417 Ratings)

Description

The legendary New York Times bestselling tale of top-down change for anyone trying to navigate today's uncertain business seas.

When Captain Abrashoff took over as commander of USS Benfold, it was like a business that had all the latest technology but only some of the productivity. Knowing that responsibility for improving performance rested with him, he realized he had to improve his own leadership skills before he could improve his ship. Within months, he created a crew of confident and inspired problem-solvers eager to take the initiative and responsibility for their actions. The slogan on board became "It's your ship," and Benfold was soon recognized far and wide as a model of naval efficiency. How did Abrashoff do it? Against the backdrop of today's United States Navy, Abrashoff shares his secrets of successful management including:
See the ship through the eyes of the crew: By soliciting a sailor's suggestions, Abrashoff drastically reduced tedious chores that provided little additional value. Communicate, communicate, communicate: The more Abrashoff communicated the plan, the better the crew's performance. His crew eventually started calling him "Megaphone Mike," since they heard from him so often. Create discipline by focusing on purpose: Discipline skyrocketed when Abrashoff's crew believed that what they were doing was important. Listen aggressively: After learning that many sailors wanted to use the GI Bill, Abrashoff brought a test official aboard the ship-and held the SATs forty miles off the Iraqi coast. From achieving amazing cost savings to winning the highest gunnery score in the Pacific Fleet, Captain Abrashoff's extraordinary campaign sent shock waves through the U.S. Navy. It can help you change the course of your ship, no matter where your business battles are fought.

Reviews

  • Meh

    3
    By Mncm27
    This book wasn’t what I expected. It was mostly a collection of leadership-isms that while valuable aren’t new. While the performance of the ship was admirable, I didn’t really glean anything new from this book. I wouldn’t rather had more details on the successes vice just the stories. Also, the author is constantly trying to convince us that he is humble by telling me how humble he and his people were.
  • Best leadership book ever!

    5
    By gen_fow
    An easy to read and excellent study in leadership from an individual who proved beyond a doubt that his techniques and ideas are a successful means to operating a ship, or a business. Highly recommended, with many lessons that can be applied in your situation, whatever it may be, if you are directing others.
  • Becoming a Leader

    5
    By Jake3428
    This book helped me realize in order to lead others you have to become a leader of your own life first.
  • Director

    5
    By JerryR300
    Great book I will read it again many times as I lead the ministry I direct
  • Brilliant!

    5
    By Librtyblue
    I want to be this man!
  • Great Management Advice

    4
    By Tjeey
    I first heard Mike Abrashoff speak at a leadership conference and was so impressed with him and his story that I downloaded the eBook while he was still speaking to our group! His story is remarkable in that he was able to bring about such a turnaround in his ship. He is a stellar example of what leaders/managers should aspire to be, to do, and to learn, and he gives good examples of how to make it happen. I will reference his book often as I try to enact some of the changes with my own staff that he was able to produce with his. Not only is this book full of good advice and words of wisdom, it is a great story to boot.
  • I'm impressed and inspired!

    5
    By Willomfs
    Having spent 14 years in the military as a officer and now an owner of a corporation with 30 employees, I am excited to be armed with better leadership tools and philosophies to make my wonderful team to new heights. This is an inspirational read providing valuable objectives and leadership styles that I can personal implement over the next year. Mark, thanks for sharing your successes and mostly, thanks for your outstanding service.
  • It's My Ship

    5
    By KCAlamo
    I read this book several years ago. Also had the pleasure of hearing Cpt Abrashoff speak. I am now in the position of training people in our organization to become managers which is all about leadership. Throughout my career, I've bucked ancient management strategy and encouraged those who worked with me to be creative and innovative. The lesson of this book is to empower people to take ownership. Whether they are successful or not with each attempt is irrelevant as long as they are encouraged to keep trying. I applaud Cpt. Abrashoff for what he accomplished in the Navy AND for putting his wisdom into this book to share with all who will try. I think anyone interested in improving as a leader will be inspired by this book.
  • It's your ship

    5
    By M.G. Butler
    This was a great book. Get advice and insight on improving your management skills.
  • Great

    5
    By Drive
    Great book!!!! And thank you Sir for your service.

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