The New One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

Last updated: Sep 23, 2023

Summary of The New One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

The New One Minute Manager is a book written by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson that provides a concise and practical guide to effective management. The book follows a young man who is seeking guidance on how to become a successful manager and is introduced to the One Minute Manager, a highly effective and respected leader.

The One Minute Manager emphasizes three key principles: One Minute Goals, One Minute Praisings, and One Minute Re-Directs. These principles are designed to help managers achieve optimal results while maintaining positive relationships with their team members.

The first principle, One Minute Goals, emphasizes the importance of setting clear and specific goals. The One Minute Manager encourages his team members to write down their goals on a single page, focusing on what needs to be accomplished and when it should be completed. By setting clear goals, team members have a clear understanding of what is expected of them and can work towards achieving those goals more effectively.

The second principle, One Minute Praisings, focuses on providing immediate and specific feedback to team members when they perform well. The One Minute Manager believes in catching people doing something right and praising them for their efforts. By providing timely and specific praise, team members feel valued and motivated to continue performing at their best.

The third principle, One Minute Re-Directs, addresses the need for corrective feedback when team members make mistakes or deviate from the desired behavior. The One Minute Manager believes in addressing issues promptly and constructively, providing clear guidance on how to improve. By addressing mistakes early on, team members can learn from their errors and make necessary adjustments to achieve better results.

The book also emphasizes the importance of building positive relationships with team members. The One Minute Manager believes in treating people with respect and dignity, valuing their contributions, and creating a supportive work environment. By fostering positive relationships, managers can create a culture of trust and collaboration, leading to higher levels of productivity and job satisfaction.

In conclusion, The New One Minute Manager provides a practical and straightforward approach to effective management. By implementing the principles of One Minute Goals, One Minute Praisings, and One Minute Re-Directs, managers can achieve optimal results while maintaining positive relationships with their team members. The book emphasizes the importance of clear communication, timely feedback, and building positive relationships to create a successful and productive work environment.

1. The Power of One Minute Goals

The book emphasizes the importance of setting clear and concise goals that can be accomplished in a short amount of time. One Minute Goals are written down on a single sheet of paper, focusing on what needs to be achieved, how it will be measured, and when it will be accomplished. By setting specific goals, individuals are more likely to stay focused and motivated, as they have a clear understanding of what is expected of them. This approach also allows for regular feedback and evaluation, enabling adjustments to be made if necessary. One Minute Goals provide a framework for success and help individuals prioritize their tasks effectively.

2. The Impact of One Minute Praisings

The book highlights the importance of providing immediate and specific praise to individuals when they meet or exceed expectations. One Minute Praisings involve catching people doing something right and acknowledging their efforts. By providing timely and genuine praise, individuals feel valued and motivated to continue performing at their best. This approach also fosters a positive work environment and strengthens relationships between managers and employees. One Minute Praisings are a powerful tool for boosting morale and encouraging a culture of appreciation and recognition.

3. The Value of One Minute Re-Directs

The book emphasizes the importance of addressing performance issues promptly and constructively through One Minute Re-Directs. Instead of waiting for a formal performance review, managers are encouraged to provide immediate feedback when an individual's behavior or performance is not aligned with expectations. One Minute Re-Directs involve addressing the issue directly, discussing the impact of the behavior, and redirecting the individual towards more appropriate actions. This approach allows for timely course correction and prevents issues from escalating. By addressing performance concerns in a respectful and timely manner, managers can help individuals improve and grow.

4. The Role of Active Listening

The book emphasizes the importance of active listening in effective communication. Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, seeking to understand their perspective, and providing feedback to ensure clarity. By actively listening, managers can build trust, foster open communication, and gain valuable insights. This approach also demonstrates respect and empathy towards others, creating a positive and supportive work environment. Active listening is a skill that can be developed and practiced, leading to stronger relationships and better collaboration.

5. The Power of Encouragement

The book highlights the impact of encouragement in motivating and empowering individuals. Encouragement involves providing support, recognition, and belief in someone's abilities. By offering encouragement, managers can inspire individuals to overcome challenges, take risks, and reach their full potential. This approach fosters a growth mindset and creates a culture of continuous improvement. Encouragement also strengthens relationships and builds confidence, leading to higher levels of engagement and productivity.

6. The Importance of Trust

The book emphasizes the significance of trust in effective leadership. Trust is built through consistent actions, open communication, and keeping commitments. When individuals trust their leaders, they are more likely to be engaged, take ownership of their work, and collaborate effectively. Trust also enables individuals to feel safe in sharing their ideas, concerns, and feedback. By prioritizing trust, leaders can create a positive and productive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

7. The Role of Empowerment

The book highlights the importance of empowering individuals to make decisions and take ownership of their work. Empowerment involves providing individuals with the necessary resources, authority, and support to accomplish their goals. By empowering others, leaders can foster creativity, innovation, and accountability. This approach also promotes personal growth and development, as individuals are encouraged to take on new challenges and expand their skills. Empowered individuals are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and committed to achieving organizational success.

8. The Power of Simplicity

The book emphasizes the value of simplicity in leadership and management practices. By keeping things simple and straightforward, individuals can better understand expectations, goals, and processes. Simple systems and processes are easier to implement and maintain, reducing complexity and confusion. This approach also allows for more efficient decision-making and problem-solving. By embracing simplicity, leaders can create clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall organizational effectiveness.