"In this age of increasing complexity, leaders often feel besieged and isolated by the challenges confronting their organizations, and there is a general sense that something is missing in the way leadership is practiced. In The Deep Blue Sea, Wilfred (Bill) Drath provides a succinct and compelling narrative that traces the evolution of leadership thought toward a vision of relational leadership.

Drawing on the story of a fictional piano company facing change in both its internal leadership and external markets, Drath provides a comprehensive view of two traditional principles - personal dominance and interpersonal influence - that have shaped our notions of what makes for "good" leadership. These leadership principles are valid and necessary but do not meet the complex challenges of many current leadership situations. Recognizing that our understanding of leadership must reflect the new ways in which we live and work, Drath's concept of relational leadership illuminates the trends toward globalization and collaboration occurring across organizations and borders.

At the dawn of the twenty-first century, leadership relies on the whole system of relations - the deep blue sea - in order to get things done."--BOOK JACKET.