On Managing

I've worked for Time Warner Cable for the last 6 years. In that time, I have applied for numerous positions and only received three. Most recent was a supervisor position in our sales department. 4 of my 6 years were spent in that department but the same was true for my competitor. After 4 interviews, the sales manager took me aside and told me that the only reason I didn't get the job was because the other girl was already doing it. I was prepared for this, but not for what came next - he offered to mentor me so that I will get the next supervisor position. Thus, I now have a list of books to read on business and leadership. On Managing is the first on this list. My mentor is a big fan of Mark McCormack. My favorite part (and most helpful) of this book was in the beginning. Mark tells us to think of the type of manager we would like to have and then emulate that. I found this to be an amazing idea and yet so simple. Most of the book did not apply to me or my current situation, I will carry that advice with into future endevors.

The author, former chairman and founder of International Sports Marketing firm IMG, covers much ground in this manager's guide, offering suggestions on a comprehensive list of topics to include: making tough decisions, hiring and keeping the best talent, cost cutting, handling bad news, making meetings more effective, and much, much more. The author uses interesting anecdotes to explain his tips, and each chapter is summarized nicely with a list of "McCormack's Rules." Readers will not agree with McCormack on all points, but there is enough sound, management advice to make this one a worth while read for managers of all levels. -- Nick McCormick, Author, Lead Well and Prosper: 15 Successful Strategies for Becoming a Good Manager

This is the first book in my required reading that I ever reread. I find his illustrations on good/poor styles and approaches enlightened and for the most part uncommon - while still being practical. He handles his business with the attention, care, importance that one might handle a family.