Tales of Talent (PDF)

Fairy Tales Are For Kids Aren't They?

Not this one!

A series of short yet powerful modern day stories woven into the tale of a young boy in Medieval England are used to illustrate the importance of talent management in modern organisations.

But don't let the enjoyable story or the apparent simplicity fool you. This book shares deep lessons and insights.

As part of his research for this book, the author interviewed people experts and leaders in the public and private sector as well as household names such as Disney, BP, Oxfam, Prudential, GSK, Michael Page, Capital One, and Standard Chartered.

Tales of Talent defines a new concept in business literature ­ that of linking traditional story telling techniques with business strategy and talent management. This book invites the reader, through the power of story telling, to identify with the characters and situations they find in its pages and use the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences. Applying a few basic tenets, which are outlined in the last chapter, with events and feelings they have experienced firsthand, readers responsible for delivering key performance measures through their people will find the organisational insights they seek.

The book is based on one principle ­ a principle so obvious that is frequently forgotten, pushed aside or downplayed in the frantic search for deeper enlightenment.

That principle: "Organisations are simply a group of people with shared interests or purpose."

Praise...

"Guy Ellis captures two of the most critical success factors in effective leadership - simplicity and storytelling. Tales of Talent is a modern parable that should challenge and inspire leaders to think again about how they are creating their future and do more than pay lip service to the idea that the care and nurturing of people is at the heart of sustainable enterprise."
- Adrian Gilpin, Chairman, Institute of Human Development

"Guy’s diverse experience and remarkable creativity make this an original, modern and entertaining read conveying important organisational messages. It is essential reading for people entering management positions as well as those already there. This book has the potential to become regarded as the Aesop’s fables for management."
- Dr Geraldine Kaye, Managing Director GAAPS International, Former Chairman Association of Search and Selection Consultants

"This book is a must read for anyone who wants to get the best from their people. It is amusing, informative and thought provoking. Its informal style holds the attention well with tales that are recognisable to anyone in leadership."
Nick Batchelor, Managing Director, Telecom New Zealand UK

About The Author...

As an experienced consultant, interim manager, author and speaker Guy Ellis has spent his career working with some of the best-known organisations in the world. A former Human Resources Director, Guy communicates powerfully his passion for talent management and has spear-headed projects in a range of diverse industries from high tech to international banking, professional services to medical products. Guy also regularly speaks to groups of professionals on his passions – talent management, organisational alignment and the future role of Human Resources in organisations.