07/02/12
Backley supports guide to better leadership
Olympic medallist Steve Backley is backing a new guide, written
by a Kent expert, that aims to develop gold-medal winning
leaders.
Secrets to Success at Work and in Business has been written by
Simon Teague, a former senior banker and now a consultant and
executive coach.
The self-help guide, which can be propped on a desk, is based on
leadership principles practised by the world's gurus.
In a foreword, javelin thrower Backley says that one of his
drivers was the pursuit of excellence. "This is what fuelled my
passion and desire to win, to tackle adversity and ultimately to
feel the warmth and joy of success."
His belief is that success is not a gift but a decision that can
be helped by learning from others. His success was based on
studying the world's best athletes and learning their theories,
methods and skills. The same can be said of business success and
Backley commends Teague for succinctly describing easy to apply
strategies for personal and business life.
"It acts like a handy tool-kit, but it is also like having your
very own coach at our side."
Given the Backley connection, Teague's guide is set for a major
in-store promotion in this Olympic year. It has already sold
hundreds of copies on Amazon and now Teague is taking it to
Waterstone's, Costco and The Works. He says it's "a
self-development not a shelf development" programme.
Before becoming a consultant, Teague, 46, from Folkestone, was
NatWest Senior Director Business Banking. He now specialises not
only in leadership but also in mergers and acquisitions.
He advised education chiefs on the complex merger of West Kent
and South Kent colleges to create K College with 25,000 students
and 1,200 staff.
It was achieved in 14 months - far quicker than the typical
three or four years. "I can help companies in change management
situations and to build winning teams," he says.
n Secrets to Success at Work and In Business, by Simon Teague,
£29.90. More details at www.the-ultimate-guide.co.uk