Firing Back

This book outlines a five-step process for recovering from professional setbacks, providing actionable strategies and insights from experienced leaders. Firing Back offers hope and guidance.

In Firing Back, authors Jeffrey Sonnenfeld and Andrew Ward present a comprehensive five-step process designed to help individuals recover from significant professional setbacks. The book delves into various strategies to overcome common obstacles that hinder career recovery, such as challenging corporate cultures and psychological pressures. Drawing from extensive research across multiple disciplines, the authors enrich their narrative with compelling stories and insights from prominent CEOs and executives who have faced adversity in their careers.

The five-step recovery process outlined in Firing Back emphasizes the importance of confronting challenges head-on. The steps include 'Fight, not flight,' where individuals are encouraged to face their difficulties rather than avoid them; 'Recruit others into battle,' which highlights the necessity of seeking support from trusted colleagues; and 'Rebuild heroic stature,' aimed at reshaping perceptions of one's professional identity. Each step is designed to guide readers through the tumultuous journey of restoring their careers and reputations.

Moreover, the book addresses the psychological and cultural barriers that can impede recovery, providing valuable insights for both emerging professionals and seasoned executives. By sharing real-life experiences from leaders at renowned companies like GE, Apple, and Morgan Stanley, Firing Back offers a relatable and practical roadmap for anyone looking to reclaim their standing in the business world after facing setbacks.