Lion Taming

About the Author

Steven L. Katz is an accomplished executive and senior adviser with over 20 years of experience working alongside leaders across various industries, including business, politics, government, and nonprofit organizations. With degrees in anthropology, history, and law, Katz brings a unique perspective to understanding human behavior and organizational dynamics. His insights are grounded in real-world experience, making his advice both practical and profound. In "Lion Taming: Working Successfully With Leaders, Bosses and Other Tough Customers," Katz draws on his extensive background to provide readers with tools to navigate the complex relationships with those in positions of power.

Main Idea

The central premise of "Lion Taming" is that working with powerful individuals, whom Katz metaphorically refers to as "lions," requires a unique set of skills and strategies. These individuals—leaders, bosses, clients, or colleagues—wield significant influence and often have distinct personalities and needs. Katz argues that understanding and adapting to these "lions" is crucial for professional success. The book provides readers with a comprehensive guide to recognizing these powerful figures, understanding their motivations, and effectively communicating and working with them. By treating these relationships as a form of lion taming, Katz offers strategies to establish trust, respect, and mutual goals, enabling both parties to thrive.

Table of Contents

1. Lions Are Never Tame
2. Get Inside the Lion's 'Skull'
3. The Top of the Food Chain
4. Bring Out the Lion Tamer in You
5. The Art of Lion Taming
6. Courage, the Whip, and the Chair
7. The Lion's Pedestal
8. Sticking Your Head in the Lion's Mouth
9. Lion Taming in Action
10. Lion Taming Is Really Lion Teaming
11. Bring Out the Lion Teamer in You!
12. Perform in the Center Ring
13. Build the Lion Team

Lions Are Never Tame

Katz begins by establishing a fundamental truth: "Lions are never tame." This chapter explores the nature of power and influence within organizations. Katz compares powerful individuals to lions, emphasizing that they are driven by a need for dominance, control over their territory, and recognition of their social standing. These individuals thrive on accumulating resources, whether information, authority, or recognition. Katz suggests that understanding these motivations is the first step in successfully working with such figures.

"Lions at Work Are a Different Species. Of all the realities that must frame your outlook as a lion tamer in the workplace, it is that you are dealing with lions." - Steven L. Katz

• A manager who consistently seeks to expand their team's influence within the company, demonstrating a clear need for control and dominance.
• A CEO who prioritizes visibility in industry publications, seeking recognition and affirmation of their status.

Get Inside the Lion's 'Skull'

In this chapter, Katz emphasizes the importance of understanding the mindset of the lions. He introduces the concept of the Lion's Four Senses: Dominance, Territory, Social Standing, and Survival. These senses shape how lions perceive the world and interact with others. Katz argues that to communicate effectively with powerful individuals, one must align with their instincts and priorities. He provides strategies for avoiding being perceived as prey, an enemy, or irrelevant, aiming instead to become a trusted member of the lion's pride.