The Accidental Manager

by Gary S. Topchik

"Every day, people are promoted into the ranks of management . . . even if they never intended to become managers. They agree to their new responsibilities either to stay employed or to make more money. It is a universal phenomenon. But for these ""accidental managers,"" it makes more sense to manage well than to manage badly, and this book tells them how. Using examples and real-life case studies, The Accidental Manager gives readers the tools they need to make the most of their situation, showing them how * Develop their people by having them work on their own and with others * Actively listen in order to build trust and increase communication * Give positive and constructive feedback to keep employees on track * Motivate by providing the best possible environment for each team member The book reveals the ten worst types of managers (and how to avoid being one of them), and features a special Management Assessment tool. The Accidental Manager gives managers the skills they need to shine in their new -- accidental -- positions."

Paperback

First published August 29, 2003

Reviews

[Megan B · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent book on how to be a manager, that, while informative, wasn't particularly engaging.

[J]

Am about half way through this. I think it does a great job calling out the technician promoted to manager dilemma facing so many employees (and employers!). I am not through enough to say if the advice is helpful but I think this is an oft-practiced, rarely-discussed management system that can really leave some employees burnt out, so I am glad to see it being written about.

[Sara]

Useful start in presenting a familiar picture and validating the experience of an 'accidental manager.' Didn't move much beyond that level though, and some of the later chapters offered some kind of strange advice. I recommend reading about 60% of this book.