The Hands-Off Manager

I recently listened to The Hands-Off Manager book on CD. I was very impressed. The principle is that managers should not try to "manage" people, but to mentor them. Very much reminds me of Joseph Smith's great principle "I teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves". Hugh Nibley stated, "Leaders are movers and shakers, original, inventive, unpredictable, imaginative, full of surprises that discomfit the enemy in war and the main office in peace. For the managers are safe, conservative, predictable, conforming organization men and team players, dedicated to the establishment."

When people are aggressively managed, or micromanaged, they're stifled, unhappy, and less productive. When they're coached, mentored, and allowed to blossom in their own way, they're far happier and more productive.

This is consistent with my own experience. I've been most happy at work when my boss gives me lots of latitude and just lets me get the job done in my own way. When I'm constantly monitored, instructed, managed, pushed, pulled...it's unenjoyable and demoralizing and I get less done.

This should be required reading for all managers.