A Good Read
Manager’s Handbook – The 17 Skills Leaders Need to Stand Out
Harvard Business Review Press
Leadership development books often appear to promise the earth and then make a disappointing read. Not so with the 2017 Manager’s Handbook from Harvard Business Review. This handy book is packed with practical insights and guidance for many of the leadership issues I work on with my clients. Divided into five sections, the book leverages the knowledge of HBR’s leadership archives to provide best practices and helpful solutions to common issues.
The first two sections focus on You, starting with Developing a Leader Mindset. This section has topics on transitioning into leadership; building trust; emotional intelligence: and positioning yourself for success. The second part investigates best practice for Managing Yourself: discussing how to become a person of influence; becoming a great communicator; how to increase your personal productivity; and focusing on your own development.
The book then pivots to look outside ourselves, starting with Managing Individuals: delegating with confidence; providing effective feedback; and developing talent. The fourth section broadens the focus to Managing Teams: leading teams; fostering creativity; and recruiting and retaining the best.
The final section of the book moves to the external focus of Managing the Business. Starting with a primer for strategy; mastering financial tools; and guidance on how to develop a business case.
Written for emerging or seasoned leaders, this comprehensive book will promote reflection and insights, with guidance to build or refresh leadership skills. Dip into it, or dive deeply into an entire section, you won’t be disappointed.
Debbie believes it is important for her clients that her work remains current and embraces evidence based practices. Integral to her ongoing professional development, Debbie reads widely to remain up-to-date with the latest publications and research regarding professional development and coaching.
To avoid being caught up in 'flavor of the month hype' or becoming overwhelmed in the book store, Debbie encourages you to check-in monthly for a review of recent and long-established good reads with practical tips and recommended chapters.