Written for, rather than about executives who are identified as abrasive or bullies, Workplace Warrior presents a unique perspective on these leaders. Many authors and speakers call them derisive names because they want them to be more respectful. Goldrich challenges this irony—or perhaps hypocrisy—while recognizing that their warrior spirit is crucial in our current VUCA environment (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity). Goldrich acknowledges that (just like himself, he admits) they are imperfect human beings whose leadership and communication styles can sometimes create a negative impact. There is no name-calling here: Goldrich recognizes that these executives bring unique value to the workplace and to society. He challenges them to become better leaders by comparing themselves to the greatest warriors on the planet: the Navy SEALs, the Green Berets, and the rest of the special operations community. These heroes take a commitment to be forged by adversity, to take charge, to lead and to accomplish the mission, and to never be out of the fight. They also commit to humbly serve and to place the welfare and security of others before their own. Some of Goldrich’s advice revolves around the clever use of his phrase, “The Least You Can Do.” If so-called abrasive executives are only interested in doing the least they can do to protect themselves in a politically correct world, they will find what they need in Workplace Warriors. If, on the other hand, executives want to do the least they can do in the sense of the right thing to do, they will be equally rewarded and find resources to take their leadership to a higher level.
