Tim Tassopoulos

President and Chief Operating Office, Chick-fil-A

I am grateful that one of the mentors who has wielded “extraordinary influence” in my life is Dr. Tim Irwin. Tim is a consultant to many of America's most respected organizations and Fortune 100 companies. His faith is evident, his love for family and friends is unshakeable, and his commitment to developing others is impressive. That's the heart behind this book.

My relationship with Tim started over 30 years ago. Tim was an advisor and consultant to Chick-fil-A founder, Truett Cathy, and Chick-fil-A president, Jimmy Collins. As the generations of Chick-fil-A leadership changed over time, Tim's insights, counsel, and active consulting about talent management, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and culture have made a tremendous contribution to our company and its leaders. I encourage you to read this book to glean your own insights as a leader, teacher, coach, or parent, from Tim's broad and practical book.

Smart people have different definitions of leadership. Warren Bennis defined leadership as the capacity to “translate intention into reality and sustain it.” Marcus Buckingham, author and consultant, says that leaders “rally people to a better future.” John Maxwell, pastor and author, says, “Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less.” I find value in each of these perspectives, but Tim Irwin's definition of leadership as “extraordinary influence” aligns with my own personal definition. Extraordinary influence is ultimately how one person positively impacts others through choice and not through forced compliance. This is real leadership—not the power or prestige that is often confused with strong leadership.

What is the one, essential quality of a leader who wants to make an impact in a positive way? What matters most for the leader who wants to leave a meaningful legacy for the next generation? What capacity should a leader develop most to fuel their leadership engine? The answer to each of these questions is the same—extraordinary influence.

I encourage you to read, reflect, and apply—put the leadership principles found in this book into practice, as I have. Become an inspiring leader known for extraordinary influence. Develop your character as a leader. Then, dare to lead!