Manager Mechanics: Tips and Advice for First-Time Managers

Eric P. Bloom
iUniverse (2009)
ISBN 9781440133497
Reviewed by Kathleen Dowdell for Reader Views (9/09)

 

“Manager Mechanics” is simply what is says it is: “Tips and Advice for First-Time Managers.”
Written in easy digestible chapters, this book provides guidance and informational assistance for anyone taking on a new role as a manger. The author’s 25-plus years of experience in the business community makes him qualified to write this book. His expertise is vast and diverse, as he has both worked for managers and has been a manager himself.

It is difficult being a manager. According to Bloom, managers must provide leadership, give direction, provide encouragement, delegate responsibility, give constructive criticism, and continually communicate. Within these practices are hidden tasks such as mentoring, coaching and counseling. A manager must always be willing to listen and communicate with the people she is managing. A good manager must be visionary and see the bigger picture then must convey this vision to the staff. This takes time and a lot of commitment. The flip side to this, as the author points out, is that everyone may not be able to handle these responsibilities. Not everyone is able to be a manager. But if you have the qualities and the desire, this book is for you.

Bloom takes the reader on a journey through 12 chapters that explain manager mechanics. Manager mechanics are simply the personal traits, skills, and knowledge that are necessary to be a great manager. A main focus of the book is on communication. There should always be open communication between managers and staff. This is a two-way street. In these difficult economic times, it is even more important to keep staff apprised of what is going on in the company. Non-communication causes speculation and apprehension.

Bloom’s last chapter titled “Personal Growth” sums up the prior chapters and gives opportunity for some deep soul searching. Are you really cut out to be a manager? Ways to determine that are by defining your management style. Only the hands-on approach can answer that question. And it may take years before you find what suits you best.

“Manager Mechanics: Tips and Advice for First Time Managers” is enjoyable to read and contains a common sense approach which makes it easy to apply the information. At the end of each chapter are “Key Points,” a summation of the material and “Food for Thought,” different scenarios in which you figure out a solution.

I would recommend this book for first time managers. The table of contents is quite descriptive which makes the book easy to navigate. “Manager Mechanics: Tips and Advice for First Time Managers” by Eric P. Bloom is a good reference guide to have on hand. I would not recommend it for veteran managers. They could probably write a book about their own experiences.

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