Customer Reviews

The Communication Problem Solver: Simple Tools and Techniques for Busy Managers

5 star:		(26)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Simple Tools and Techniques for Busy Managers: The Communication Problem Solver by Nannette Rundle Carroll was a great read. The book proved an invaluable resource for anyone in the work setting. Carroll discussed everything from work relationships, to expectations, to common problems, to especially helpful techniques to solve all of these problems. She organized the book in such a way that all of the topics naturally followed one another, which made for smooth reading. The text was thorough, but not too difficult to understand, making it perfect for a reader of any skill level. Carroll even included a summary at the end of each chapter to help the reader recall what was discussed. Her transitions into different topics flowed very naturally, and I never thought, "Why did she just start to talk about this subject?" The book was very well organized into subtopics, so you can pick and choose which aspects you want to read (if you do not have time to read the entire book). Carroll used a plethora of examples to get her point across, which really clarified some of her concepts. She used both personal narratives and hypothetical instances to solidify her arguments. She not only stated some typical office problems, but gave examples of how to fix them. For example, one chapter talked about how to prevent judgments. She listed about 8 different categories that people are generally grouped into, and gave a list of techniques that would prevent these judgments from happening. The appendices were a great addition to the book. In particular, the appendix on first time management really gave me a clear idea of some of the problems that new managers face. Though I am not currently in management, I hope to be someday, so it was well worth it for me to buy this book. I will definitely use this text for future references as it pertains to my work.

This book is an invaluable tool for understanding how workplace communication problems develop and learning practical ways to solve them. From setting and communicating realistic expectations to asking the right questions to obtain the information you need Nannette Rundle Carroll's work is a godsend for managers and their direct reports. One of the real gems in this book is hidden in Appendix B "Communication Issues Unique to First-Time Managers" which is a must-read for new or prospective leaders.

What separates Nannette's book from others is the first person insight into different situations. They are laid out in conversation mode so they are easy to relate to and identify with, which is quite refreshing!

"The Communications Problem Solver, Simple Tools and Techniques for Busy Managers" is a well-written guide to avoiding all those workplace communications issues that plague the modern business manager. It is a must-read, especially for younger and less experienced business workers, whether or not they are in management. We all aspire to being in management someday, right?

The author, Nannette Rundle Carroll has tons of experiences from which to build her many examples and strategies. She has taught business communications courses for many years and has provided thousands of business managers with the skills they need to be successful in their careers.

I gave the book 5 stars primarily for its abundant and strong "what should I say or do in this situation?" examples and guidance. You can refer to the chapters and scenarios in a cookbook fashion if you don't have the time to read the book cover-to-cover. But I urge you to read every word.

Busy managers will find this book worthwhile since there are so many straight-forward techniques that can be applied immediately to everyday situations. The tools will help managers be more effective and efficient communicators. I especially like the practical application of the information. We are all crunched for time, so anything that can help us be more efficient is well worth the time and effort in learning new techniques. The compactness of the information was appealing to me since I often cannot find time to attend all day management seminars.

I give 5 stars and 2 thumbs up for Simple Tools and Techniques for Busy Managers: The Communication Problem Solver by Nannette Rundle Carroll. This is a fabulous read for anyone in any career field. As an educator for pre-service teachers, I found this book packed with useful ideas, tips, and scenarios for the real world. Teachers are definitely 'Busy Managers" and will benefit from reading this book. I love the easy read format, questions posed, and examples that are provided. I felt as if Carroll was in the room speaking to me. This is truly a worthwhile and informative read for the reflective educator.

This book provides an insightful and practical approach to solving complex communication problems. The chapters are well organized, easy to read and provide a wealth of information that will strengthen your communication skill set not only in the work place but in your personal life. This book should become an essential component in your communication tool box. Well done Ms. Carroll!

It lives up to its title. Its simple and practical solutions is worth having this book. I recommend this book especially to those who are too busy to take a workshop or class to learn the techniques.

The is the perfect anonymous Christmas present for every "I have no idea what I really want from my staff and less of a clue how to communicate my vague ideas to my team to increase our productivity" director, manager, or supervisor. The examples are from real life, not from story books. The steps to increasing productivity and expressing real goals from management to staff are clearly laid out. This should be required reading for everyone in the business world. So clearly laid out, any knuckled-headed manager should be able to read, learn, and follow through.

The cover of this book promises "Simple Tools and Techniques for Busy Managers" and the book delivers. Written in a clear and authoritative voice, this practical guide touches on everything from the importance of positive relationships in the workplace, ways to provide feedback and coaching - and what the difference is, and listening techniques. Real life examples sprinkled throughout add depth to the material. A clear, concise handbook that should grace the bookshelves of both seasoned and new managers.