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The First-Time Manager
Book

The First-Time Manager

Loren B. Belker
AMACOM, 2005
First Edition: 1987
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Editorial Rating

8

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Recommendation

Many rookie managers feel like imposters until they grow into their jobs, but if you are scaling that learning curve, help has arrived. Authors Loren B. Belker and Gary S. Topchik provide managerial coaching for new occupants of corner offices (or, at least, of cubes with windows). The text provides novice managers with concrete examples, solid discussions, helpful suggestions and insights on a wide menu of corporate challenges. Although the book is redundant in spots, and needs more extensive chapter summaries, it is a terrific tutorial for managers. getAbstract recommends this book to everyone in managerial slots, especially those who just arrived.

Summary

The Rookie

The good news: You’ve been promoted to management. The bad news: Not everyone wishes you well. What’s more, your company may not provide the training or the tools that you need as a first-time manager. The challenge is daunting, but you will handle the office maze much more capably if you keep the following concepts in mind:

  • Managing a team significantly differs from being the team superstar.
  • As the team captain or manager you should keep your eyes on the entire field. Don’t get lost in minor league details.
  • Successful managers learn to delegate.
  • Leaders motivate; office dictators often fail.

The Welcome Mat

In addition to a new office and a new title, you may also encounter jealousy, hidden agendas, pointless flattery and resistance. Fortunately, most staff members regard new managers with a "wait-and-see" attitude, which is a healthy, balanced approach to change. Patience and restraint will serve you well as you proceed. From the beginning, don’t bark out commands from your new dugout, be aware of not talking more than you listen, try not to become falsely friendly with new reports and never turn into a ...

About the Author

Loren B. Belker, an official at a major insurance company for nearly three decades, also wrote the four earlier editions of The First-Time Manager. Gary S. Topchik, managing partner of a management development consulting firm, also wrote The Accidental Manager and Managing Workplace Negativity.

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