From Worst to First

Gordon Bethune, who led Continental Airlines, gives an inside account of how he and his team turned the struggling carrier around in one of the most dramatic comebacks in business. A plain-spoken former Navy aircraft mechanic, Bethune relied on a few common-sense ideas about management and a willingness to look past the bottom line to motivate employees and win back the customers the airline had lost. He draws lessons on leadership, empowering staff, teamwork and strategy that apply to almost any kind of business. Bethune gave all his proceeds to the We Care Trust, which helps Continental employees and their families.

Domo founder and chief executive Josh James was reported to be a fan of it in a roundup of top CEOs' favourite inspirational reads.