The One Minute Manager is a popular self-help book by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. First published in 1982, the book presents a concise and easily digestible management philosophy that aims to help individuals become more effective managers and leaders in just one minute. The book is written as a parable, using a fictional story to convey its key principles.
The book outlines three primary management techniques that together form the foundation of the “One Minute Manager” approach:
- One Minute Goals: This technique emphasizes setting clear, specific, and measurable goals that can be accomplished quickly. The authors suggest that managers spend just one-minute clarifying expectations and ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding what is expected. This reduces ambiguity and helps individuals focus on what matters most.
- One Minute Praisings: The book suggests managers should catch people doing things right and provide immediate and sincere praise. The idea is that praising positive behaviour reinforces it and encourages employees to continue performing well. The authors advocate for giving praise as soon as possible, ideally within a minute of observing the positive behaviour.
- One Minute Re-Directs (Reprimands): When mistakes or performance issues arise, the authors recommend addressing them promptly and constructively. They emphasize that reprimands should be focused on the behaviour, not the person, and delivered respectfully and non-threateningly. The goal is to correct the behaviour while maintaining a positive relationship.
Overall, The One Minute Manager promotes an efficient and people-centred management style. It highlights the importance of clear communication, immediate feedback, and balancing accountability with positive reinforcement. The book’s simplicity and practical advice have made it a popular resource for managers and individuals seeking to enhance their leadership skills.