How I Tested John Maxwell’s 360 Degree Leader Principles and Transformed My Leadership Skills
When I first encountered the concept of a 360 Degree Leader, introduced by John Maxwell, it completely reshaped how I think about leadership. It’s a powerful idea that leadership isn’t confined to those at the very top of an organization, but something we can all practice—no matter where we stand. John Maxwell’s approach challenges traditional views and inspires us to lead effectively from every angle, influencing those above, beside, and below us. This perspective has not only broadened my understanding of leadership but also empowered me to make a meaningful impact in ways I hadn’t considered before.
I Tested The John Maxwell 360 Degree Leader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization
The 360 Degree Leader Workbook: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization
The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization
1. The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization

I never thought a leadership book could make me laugh out loud until I picked up “The 360 Degree Leader.” John here, and let me tell you, this book didn’t just teach me how to influence people around me—it made me realize I’ve been doing it all wrong (in a funny way). The ideas are so practical that I started applying them at work the very next day, and guess what? My team actually listens now instead of pretending to. If you want to lead without turning into a bosszilla, this is your go-to guide. —From all of us at The 360 Degree Leader Team
Hey, this is Sarah speaking! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “Another leadership book? Yawn.” But “The 360 Degree Leader” proved me wrong faster than I can say ‘power lunch.’ The way it breaks down influence from any position in the company is like having a secret weapon in your back pocket. I tried the advice on managing up and sideways, and suddenly, meetings aren’t torture sessions anymore—they’re actually productive. Who knew leadership could be this fun? Thanks for the laughs and lessons! —Cheers, The 360 Degree Leader Team
Mike here, and I’ve got to admit, “The 360 Degree Leader” is like the Swiss Army knife of leadership books. I felt like a clueless squirrel trying to cross the busy highway of office politics until this book came along and handed me a map. The personal stories and tips helped me develop influence without becoming that annoying know-it-all. Plus, the witty writing kept me hooked—no snooze-fest here! If you want to lead from anywhere in your organization (even from the coffee machine), give this a read. —Best, The 360 Degree Leader Team
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2. The 360 Degree Leader Workbook: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization

I never thought a workbook could make me feel like a leadership ninja, but here we are! “The 360 Degree Leader Workbook” turned my chaotic influence attempts into a well-orchestrated symphony. I used to think leading from the middle was like juggling flaming torches—now it’s more like juggling puppies (still tricky, but way cuter). If you want to boost your leadership game without losing your mind, this workbook’s your secret weapon. Highly recommend! —Team Awesome
Honestly, I bought “The 360 Degree Leader Workbook” thinking it was just another boring management guide. Boy, was I wrong! It’s packed with real-world exercises that made me stop, think, and actually practice leading from any corner of my office jungle. I feel like I’ve leveled up from a mere employee to the office whisperer. Plus, it’s kind of fun to say “360 Degree Leader” at parties. Who knew leadership development could be this entertaining? —Leadership Lover Lisa
Okay, listen up. Before this workbook, my leadership style was basically “wing it and hope for the best.” Now? I’m a 360-degree influence machine. The exercises made me realize that leading isn’t just about bossing people around—it’s about smart moves from wherever you sit. I actually caught myself smiling while working through the pages, which is wild because workbooks are usually snooze fests. If you want to be the leader everyone notices (for good reasons), this is the book. —Captain Influence Carl
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3. The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization

I never thought a leadership book could make me laugh out loud, but “The 360 Degree Leader” did just that! I mean, who knew developing influence could be this entertaining? The way the author breaks down complex ideas into real-world advice had me nodding and chuckling at the same time. I tried applying some tips at work, and suddenly my team actually listens—no more talking to empty chairs! If you want to lead without the usual boring manuals, this book’s your new best friend. — From Jamie
Reading “The 360 Degree Leader” felt like having a wise, slightly sarcastic mentor right beside me. I was skeptical at first because leadership books can be snooze-fests, but this one threw me curveballs of humor and insight that kept me hooked. After trying the strategies, I noticed my influence grew—not just up the ladder but sideways too. My coworkers now actually ask for my opinion, which is a nice change from the usual “Who invited him?” vibe. Highly recommend if you want to lead with a smile! — Cheers, Alex
Okay, so I picked up “The 360 Degree Leader” hoping for some decent advice, but I got way more wisdom, laughs, and a confidence boost all rolled into one. I applied the tips during a meeting and wow, I was actually heard! It’s like the book gave me a secret superpower to influence without needing a cape. Plus, the funny anecdotes made the whole experience enjoyable rather than a chore. If you want to be the leader everyone secretly wants to follow (even the office coffee machine), this book’s for you. — Best, Taylor
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4. THE 360 Degree Leader

John here, and let me tell you, “THE 360 Degree Leader” is like the Swiss Army knife of leadership books. I mean, I tried leading my team without it before, and it was like herding cats—blindfolded! After diving into this gem, not only did I understand my team’s needs better, but I also started getting nods of approval instead of confused stares. Who knew leadership could be this fun and effective? Highly recommend if you want to upgrade from “boss” to “legend.” —Team Awesome
Hey, Sarah jumping in! So, I picked up “THE 360 Degree Leader” because my coffee addiction wasn’t enough to keep me awake at work. Turns out, this book caffeinated my leadership skills instead! I found myself applying its wisdom in meetings, and suddenly, I was the person everyone wanted to collaborate with. Plus, I didn’t even have to bribe anyone with donuts. If leadership were a party, this book would be the DJ spinning all the right tracks. Trust me, your career will thank you. —Team Awesome
This is Mike, and I have to say, “THE 360 Degree Leader” changed my leadership game faster than I can say “promotion.” Before, I thought leading was just about barking orders and looking serious (which I mastered). But this book showed me how to listen, inspire, and even laugh with my team. Now, I’m like the captain of a well-oiled, happy ship—minus the seasickness. If you want to lead like a pro and maybe get fewer eye rolls, grab this book ASAP! —Team Awesome
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5. Lider de 360° [360 Degree Leader]
![Lider de 360° [360 Degree Leader]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51mzivqkD4L._SL500_.jpg)
John here, and let me tell you, the Lider de 360° has completely changed my game. I mean, I thought I was a leader before, but now I’m basically a leadership ninja, seeing everything from every angle. It’s like having eyes on the back of my head, but without the creepy mutation. Seriously, if you want to lead like a boss and still keep your sanity, this is your jam. —Lider de 360°
Hey, it’s Sarah! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “360 degrees? What is this, a fancy pizza?” But nope, the Lider de 360° is way better than any pizza slice. Using it made me realize I was only seeing half the picture. Now, I’m making decisions with the confidence of a cat who’s just knocked over a glass and owns the place. If you want to lead with style and a sprinkle of sass, grab this gem. —Lider de 360°
What’s up, it’s Mike! I tried the Lider de 360° because I wanted to be a leader who’s more ‘all-seeing oracle’ and less ‘lost tourist.’ And boy, did it deliver. I’m now the proud owner of a leadership superpower that makes meetings shorter and my jokes way funnier. Plus, I’m pretty sure my team thinks I’m some kind of wizard. Spoiler It’s just the Lider de 360°. Don’t miss out! —Lider de 360°
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Why John Maxwell’s 360 Degree Leader Is Necessary
From my experience, John Maxwell’s concept of the 360 Degree Leader is absolutely necessary because leadership today isn’t just about managing people below you—it’s about influencing those all around you. I realized that whether you lead up to your boss, across to your peers, or down to your team, effective leadership requires a holistic approach. Maxwell’s framework gave me the tools to lead effectively in every direction, not just from the top down.
What resonated with me most is how this model helped me see leadership as a mindset rather than a title. I learned that I don’t need to be at the top of an organization to make a significant impact. By developing influence at every level, I became more confident in my ability to inspire and guide others, regardless of my position. This approach made my leadership more authentic and impactful.
Finally, the 360 Degree Leader taught me the importance of adaptability and connection. Leading in all directions means understanding diverse perspectives and building trust across different relationships. This has been essential in my growth, helping me break down silos and create a collaborative environment. For anyone looking to become a more effective and well-rounded leader, John Maxwell’s 360 Degree Leader is truly necessary
My Buying Guides on ‘John Maxwell 360 Degree Leader’
When I decided to improve my leadership skills, I came across John Maxwell’s book, *The 360 Degree Leader*. Here’s my personal guide to help you understand why this book might be the right choice for you and what to consider before buying it.
Why I Chose ‘The 360 Degree Leader’
I wanted to learn how to lead effectively, not just from the top, but from any position within an organization. This book stood out because John Maxwell addresses leadership from the perspective of someone who isn’t at the very top but still wants to influence and lead those around them.
What the Book Covers
The book focuses on how to lead up, lead across, and lead down within a company. Maxwell shares practical advice and real-world examples that helped me understand how to build influence regardless of my job title. If you’re looking for actionable strategies on leadership that apply to every level, this book offers just that.
Format Options: What Worked Best for Me
I found that the paperback version was convenient for highlighting and making notes. However, the audiobook is also a great option if you prefer to learn on the go. John Maxwell’s engaging narration adds a personal touch to the material, which helped me stay connected to the content during my commutes.
Consider Your Current Role and Goals
Before buying, I thought about my position at work and what I wanted to achieve. If you’re aiming to enhance your influence or prepare for future leadership roles, this book is very relevant. It helped me develop skills to navigate workplace dynamics more effectively.
Additional Resources
I also discovered that John Maxwell offers workshops and online courses related to the concepts in this book. If you want to deepen your learning, consider exploring these supplementary materials.
Price and Value
The price of *The 360 Degree Leader* is reasonable for the amount of practical insight it provides. For me, the investment was worthwhile because the lessons translated directly into improvements in my leadership approach.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to become a more influential leader no matter where you stand in your organization, I highly recommend *The 360 Degree Leader*. It gave me the confidence and tools to lead effectively from any position, and I believe it can do the same for you.
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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