Behind Closed Doors
(Fri Oct 07, 2005) [/Books] #
When Behind Closed Doors: Secrets of Great Management, one of the latest titles in the Pragmatic Bookshelf, showed up at our door, I literally had no chance. My better half scooped it up and wouldn't give it back until she'd read every word. To make matters worse, as she was reading it I was continuously reminded just how great the book is. So I asked her to write a review, which follows.
If you're thinking about management—think again! If you're already in management—think pragmatically! Behind Closed Doors confronts the unspoken myth that star individual, technical performers will naturally want to be and, conversely, know how to be star managers. This quite simply isn't true. Technically-skilled folks don't transform into gifted managers on their own. They need help.
Thankfully, Johanna and Esther have written an excellent book full of specific tips and pragmatic advice on the most fundamental and key aspects of management. I'd recommend this book to any first-time managers, anyone thinking of making the leap from technical to management, or anyone managing by the seat of their pants.
Behind Closed Doors is presented in small enough chunks that you can actually work through all the suggestions over a couple of months. But if you're thinking you need more short-term help, the book is chock full of specific advice that can be implemented today, without delay. And should you want to dig deeper into a topic, the bibliographies at the end of each chapter make it easy to find additional resources. For example, if you're struggling with finding the right new hire, Johanna and Esther offer proven ideas and techniques as well as suggested additional reading if you want a lot more depth.
I wish I would have read this book years ago before going into management. I might have decided otherwise, or at least had a better chance at making it a smoother transition. Still thinking about management? Do yourself a favor and read this book first!
