Peter Drucker said, “The Salvation Army is by far the most effective organization in the U.S. No one even comes close to it with respect to clarity of mission, ability to innovate, measurable results, dedication, and putting money to maximum use.” Robert Watson —a former National Commander of The Salvation Army in the U.S.— took that quote and wrote a book giving some insight into how the Army can be so effective: The Most Effective Organization in the U.S. – Leadership Secrets of The Salvation Army
Now, Peter Legge, President and Publisher of Canada Wide Media Limited, has published the Canadian edition of Robert Watson’s book. I’ve not had a chance to read this new edition, but have read the American version and recommend it. It is not a how-to on leadership, but rather gives the reader an idea of the networks, processes and systems the Army uses that makes it so effective.
The Salvation Army in Canada website has posted a Podcast of an interview with Peter Legge where he talks about he talks about his involvement with the Army and the book.
1 response so far ↓
Carlene Byron // Feb 25, 2008 at 7:43 am
I’ve read the book and just the chapter headings give you an idea what–in theory at least–makes The Salvation Army successful. “Lead by Listening.” “Organize to Improvise.” “Act with Audacity.” “Make Joy Count.”
I think what makes The Salvation Army exceptional as a social service agency is its ability to see the people it serves as people. That’s where the listening comes in, and often the improvisation. In our location, the proposed strategy for outreach to Latinos in the neighborhood hasn’t been nearly as effective as an Ethiopian-born streetworker–go figure! And so we keep him hard at work reaching Latinos.
The Salvation Army seems very ready to say “If it works, it’s right.” And as a development officer who’s been experimenting with new approaches for much of the time since I arrived–and radically increasing revenues as a result–I appreciate the freedom.
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