■ The Big Idea
In a global business climate that changes faster than any leader can plan, authors Clampitt and DeKoch have outlined the essence of leadership, by first explaining how false certainties are created, and then providing key ideas and insights into how to cultivate a culture that embraces uncertainty. They make the case that organizations which learn to live with a healthy amount of uncertainty perform better and maximize their people’s potential.

First of all, as a leader, recognize that you are not expected to have all of the answers all of the time. It is part of the mantra of embracing uncertainty to do away with this shame in saying, “I don’t know” and encouraging debate, more thoughtful decision-making, and more self-critique.

■ About the Author
Phillip G. Clampitt, Ph.D, received his Ph.D. in organizational communication from the University of Kansas. He is a full professor at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in the Information Sciences Program. He has published in various journals, including The Academy of Management Executive, Journal of Communication Management, Journal of Business Communication, Management Communication Quarterly, Journal of Broadcasting, and Communication World. He Also is on the editorial board of numerous professional journals. His most recent book, Communicating for Managerial Effectiveness (2nd edition), is based on the research from past communication assessments. Professor Clampitt is also the founder of MetaComm, a consulting firm that enables organizations to take their communication practices to a "higher plane" He has worked with numerous organizations over the past twenty years.

Robert J. DeKoch received his B.A. from Lawrence University and his M.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin. His career has spanned numerous manufacturing industries where he has held various management positions in manufacturing, engineering, and research. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer with a major U.S. company, the Boldt Company. Throughout his career, Mr. DeKoch has focused on developing work environments for high involvement and continuous learning. He has instituted progressive communication processes in the workplace to promote understanding, focus, and alignment. He strives to build work relationships that foster innovative thinking, recognition of achievement, and genuine teamwork.