The Eight Rules of Management

Rule #1: Surround Yourself With High Quality Employees
Just as a chef needs high quality ingredients to make a great meal, a manager needs high quality employees to give customers a great product. Who do you have around you?

Rule #2: Don’t Micromanage
Let employees know what needs to be done and then get out of their way. Don't be a Micromanager unless you want microprofits.

Rule #3: Understand that all Motivation Stems from Self-Interest
It has been said that you can’t understand a man until you walk a mile in his shoes. That is the best way to learn how to motivate somebody.

Rule #4: Realize What Goes Around, Comes Around
When dealing with employees, managers should always remember that what goes around, comes around. Ignore the eternal truth at your own peril.

Rule #5: Issue Instructions in a Respectful Manner
The bottom line is that the human need for self-worth is either fulfilled or neglected depending on the way a task is communicated.

Rule #6: Listen to Employees
Communication is healthy for any relationship, and it is especially important in the context of managers and employees.

Rule #7: Use Praise Instead of Criticism
Praise is like putting water on a plant. Criticism is like putting acid on a plant. Will your employee morale blossom or wilt?

Rule #8: Implement a Profit-Sharing Program
The proof is in the pudding. Profit-sharing works. Do it and fly high.

22nd April 2003
Source: The Art of Management, Gregory Blencoe