The One Minute Manager
by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
A 1982 parable teaching three practices: one-minute goals, one-minute praisings, one-minute reprimands (now 're-directs' in the updated edition). It is short, simple and has sold millions. The practices are sound basics of feedback and clarity; the fable format is thin and the simplicity can feel dated.
Read it if…
you are a new manager and want the simplest possible feedback model.
Skip it if…
you manage experienced professionals; the model will feel paternal.
Three things you will actually use
- Goals clear enough to read in a minute.
- Praise immediately and specifically.
- Correct the behavior; reaffirm the person.
Do this first
Set one clear goal with each report this week in under 250 words, and praise one specific thing within a day of seeing it.
Our verdict
Simple basics; still a fast start.
Compare with other Leadership books
Fish!
Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul and John Christensen · Leadership
Thin but memorable; a morale tool.
CLICK TO SEE
The Oz Principle
Roger Connors, Tom Smith and Craig Hickman · Leadership
Strong framework, padded book.
CLICK TO SEE
Browse all Leadership book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
As an Amazon Associate, WisdomDeck earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked “Click to see” go to Amazon. We are not paid for opinions, prices and availability are not shown here and change on Amazon, and we never see your purchase details. Nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice.