A Briefing for Leaders: Communication as the Ultimate Exercise of Power

In this helpful version of a briefing designed for senior executives, public relations specialist Dilenschneider ( Power and Influence ) suggests that leaders must concentrate more on the big picture (spotting trends and managing agendas) than on ``media relations or crisis checklists.'' Proposing that leadership has supplanted mere management and administration, he first discusses the ``raw materials'' of leadership (e.g., vision and values). He then addresses the communications landscape (e.g., the increased speed of events), the communications ``template'' (how to use research and staff) and the goals of leadership (how to reach other opinion leaders and maintain goodwill). He writes efficiently, augmenting his short chapters with lists and section summaries. While he covers important ground, his anecdotes are more valuable than his aphorisms, few of which are wholly original. $40,000 ad/promo; author tour. (Oct.)