Common Sense Approach Makes Uncommonly Good Managers
Management today is in a state of crisis. No longer simply the butt of a joke or two, there is now an entire cottage industry built around ridiculing the profession--a comic strip, a television show, websites, and merchandise. In spite of the plethora of books and training materials available to show managers the way, most just can't seem to get it right.
Nick McCormick knows this, and it is his mission to combat the management crisis--one manager at a time. His new book Lead Well and Prosper: 15 Successful Strategies for Becoming a Good Manager is a straightforward guide for managers at all levels. "I wrote the book somewhat out of frustration," says McCormick, who has many years' experience as a manager in the IT industry. "I've witnessed incredibly poor management throughout my career, and I've seen the negative impact this can have on people and companies. I wanted to help those who recognize the need to improve."
The book offers a collection of 15 strategies designed to help managers at any level become good managers. Why a "good" manager rather than a "great" manager? McCormick explains that although people should set their sights high, being a good manager is difficult to accomplish--and that in itself is great.
Organized in an easy-to-follow format, this compact guide sticks to the often-forgotten basics--such as provide honest and timely feedback, treat people like human beings, and do what you say you'll do. Each chapter begins with a humorous but unfortunately all-too-true scenario--complete with a cast of characters and illustrations--demonstrating the common mistakes managers make. Then recommended tips are included to help overcome the problem. A list of dos and don'ts--which cut right to the chase--follows. Actions that can be taken immediately to implement the strategy are listed at the end of each section. Appendices list the dos and don'ts in one place for easy reference, and include a quiz that determines a manager's effectiveness. There is also a recommended reading list.
"Effectively combating the management crisis will occur only by training new managers and transforming those who are more seasoned," says McCormick. "All managers can start by embracing the information in this book."
