First, Break All the Rules

• Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman
• 1999-01-01
• 9780787955727
• Business & Leadership

First, Break All the Rules is a business and leadership book written by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman that explores the concept of management and how it affects employee performance and satisfaction. Buckingham and Coffman are well-known speakers and authors on the topic of management and leadership, and their book has been widely recognized as a classic in the field.
According to Buckingham and Coffman, the key to effective management is to focus on the individual needs and strengths of employees, rather than on applying a one-size-fits-all approach. They argue that by understanding and addressing the unique needs and strengths of each employee, managers can create a more positive and productive work environment and improve overall performance.
Buckingham and Coffman identify a number of key principles of effective management, including:
1. Define the right outcomes: Managers should identify the key outcomes that they want to achieve, and then work with employees to develop a plan to achieve them.
2. Select the right people: Managers should select employees who are a good fit for the organization, and who possess the skills and abilities needed to succeed.
3. Get the right fit: Managers should ensure that each employee is placed in a role that is a good fit for their skills and abilities, in order to maximize their potential.
4. Motivate each person: Managers should understand the unique motivators of each employee, and use those motivators to help drive performance and satisfaction.
To help managers apply these principles in their own organizations, Buckingham and Coffman provide a number of strategies and tools, including:
1. Conduct effective performance reviews: This involves setting clear goals and expectations, and providing ongoing feedback and coaching to help employees improve.
2. Foster a positive work culture: This involves creating a positive and supportive work environment, and promoting collaboration and teamwork.
3. Encourage professional development: This involves providing opportunities for employees to learn and grow, and supporting their efforts to develop new skills and abilities.
Overall, First, Break All the Rules is a valuable resource for managers looking to improve their management skills and create a positive and productive work environment. Buckingham and Coffman's insights are based on extensive research and analysis, and their strategies have been proven to work in a variety of settings. Whether you are a manager, a leader, or anyone else looking to improve your management skills, First, Break All the Rules is a must-read.