Book Review: Your Management Sucks by Mark Stevens

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Rating: 4 out 5 

Summary:

“Your Management Sucks” by Mark Stevens is a hard-hitting and no-nonsense guide to improving your management skills. With a straightforward and blunt writing style, the author offers practical advice and real-world examples of how to become a more effective manager. The book is divided into short chapters that focus on specific topics, such as communication, delegation, and team building, making it an easy read for busy managers who want to quickly improve their skills.

One of the book’s strengths is its focus on accountability. Stevens argues that many managers fail because they don’t take responsibility for their actions or their team’s performance. He emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, measuring progress, and taking decisive action when necessary. The author also stresses the importance of treating employees with respect and fairness, and offers tips for building trust and loyalty among team members.

However, the book may not be for everyone. Some readers may find the author’s style too blunt or confrontational, and the book’s emphasis on tough love and direct communication may not resonate with all readers. Yet that type of reading hooked me into this book and kept me turning the page. Additionally, the author’s focus on results can apply to all industries and types of organizations.

Overall, “Your Management Sucks” is a useful and practical guide for anyone looking to improve their management skills. While the book’s tone may be tough for some readers, those who are willing to embrace the author’s direct and no-nonsense approach will find much to learn from this book. Whether you are a new manager looking for guidance, or an experienced leader seeking a new perspective this book is for you.

Memorable quotes from the book:

• “Judge people by when they FALL IN LOVE, not when they FALL IN LIKE.” 

• “Strong leaders (and, in turn, exceptional managers) establish a compass for their people to pursue in the course of their work and provide the motivation to exceed established goals.”

• “We are in the business of growing our client’s businesses. We can’t accomplish that without developing innovative strategies – and those A+ strategies aren’t sitting there waiting to be plucked. To succeed here – to succeed in life – you have to go off by yourself on a regular basis and THINK.”