Ubuntu!: An Inspiring Story About an African Tradition of Teamwork and Collaboration
Ubuntu is an ancient African philosophy that we are all part of one human family and benefit from treating each other with civility and respect. Drawing on research and their own experiences, best-selling authors Lundin and Nelson offer a fictional account of the real-life application of Ubuntu to American business management. John Peterson, a new manager of a major multinational retailer, is struggling in his new position, failing to meet deadlines and to motivate his staff. His most productive employee, a young man from South Africa, introduces John to the concept of Ubuntu: managers must respect the value of every employee, and individuals must put the interest of the team foremost. Lest managers think the approach is too touchy-feely, they should know that Ubuntu requires respect for individuals, not sloppy work, and challenges those individuals who threaten the benefit of the team. The approach was used by Nelson Mandela to bring about reconciliation after apartheid and has gained advocates among managers of American sports teams and corporations as well. The authors include a blueprint for applying the principles of Ubuntu to workplace management. --Vanessa Bush