I’ve come to realise that great management is often the difference between engaged, thriving employees and a disengaged, unmotivated workforce. Everyone Deserves a Great Manager is a guide for those of us who want to step up and make a meaningful difference in our teams’ lives.
This book is filled with actionable insights tailored for everyday managers—whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned professional. Its real power lies in its focus on the human side of management: How your leadership style directly influences the experience and success of your employees.
Key Takeaways for Everyday Leaders
Master the 6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team
The authors distill the essentials of leadership into six manageable practices, making the book highly accessible for managers at all levels. From holding regular one-on-ones to creating a culture of accountability, these practices are practical and easy to implement, even in a busy work environment.
The Power of Recognising Individual Strengths
One of the standout themes of the book is the emphasis on recognising and leveraging the unique strengths of each employee. When managers focus on what their team members do well, employees feel valued and empowered to succeed.
This principle resonated deeply with me. In my experience, employees thrive when they feel seen and appreciated for their contributions. A simple acknowledgment can boost morale and drive performance.
Building a Culture of Trust
The book makes a compelling case for trust as the foundation of effective leadership. Managers are encouraged to model transparency, fairness, and empathy, which create an environment where employees feel safe to innovate and take risks.
Trust isn’t just about being honest—it’s about showing employees that you’re invested in their growth and well-being. This is something I strive for in my leadership style.
Empowering Teams Through Clear Goals
Employees can’t succeed if they don’t know what success looks like. The authors stress the importance of setting clear, actionable goals for individuals and teams, as well as aligning these goals with organisational priorities.
I’ve seen firsthand how clarity drives engagement. When everyone understands the bigger picture, they’re more likely to feel motivated and connected to their work.
Why This Book Matters for Managers and Teams
In my experience, the quality of management has a profound impact on employee engagement, retention, and overall performance. Everyone Deserves a Great Manager is a practical toolkit for leaders who want to elevate their teams and create a more positive, productive workplace.
The book serves as a reminder that great managers aren’t born—they’re made through intentional habits and a commitment to supporting their teams. Its focus on trust, strengths, and clear communication makes it especially valuable for leaders who want to empower their employees and drive long-term success.
Managing a team can be challenging, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. This book gives you the essential tools to succeed. Invest in yourself and grab Everyone Deserves a Great Manager now!
Who Should Read This Book
- First-time managers looking for a solid foundation in leadership practices.
- Experienced leaders who want to refine their approach and create a stronger impact.
- Anyone in a leadership role striving to improve employee engagement and team dynamics.
Disclaimer: Book Review Disclaimer
Book Review: Everyone Deserves a GREAT Manager
Everyone Deserves a Great Manager is an essential read for leaders who want to make a meaningful difference in their teams’ lives. Its practical, employee-focused advice will resonate with managers across industries and levels. If you care about building trust, recognising strengths, and fostering a culture of accountability, this book belongs on your shelf.
Strengths
- Highly Practical Advice: The book’s six practices are straightforward and actionable, making it easy to apply what you learn immediately.
- Employee-Centric Approach: The focus on how managers can improve the employee experience is reinforcing the employee centric approach.
- Real-World Examples: The authors share relatable stories and examples that help illustrate their points and inspire confidence in the practices.
Things to Consider
- The book’s tone occasionally assumes the reader is in a corporate or structured organisation, which might limit its relatability for those in more fluid or non-traditional workplaces.
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Inspiration and Motivation8
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Implementation Potential8
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Relatability9
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Relevance to Leadership9
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Overall Value8.5