With so many books out on the market dealing with leadership and team building, your book stands out as a down-to-earth and simplified method that can work for all levels of management. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day?

I wrote this book because I wanted to create a practical and accessible guide to management, especially for first-time managers and those with limited experience. I have seen firsthand the challenges that new managers face, so I wanted to write a book that would provide them with the tools and strategies they need to succeed.

I was also motivated by the fact that many of the books on the market about management are some combination of narrowly focused, long and complex, making many of them difficult to read and apply. I wanted to write a book that was concise and easy to read, while still providing readers with the essential information they need to be effective managers.

Finally, I wanted to write a book that was relevant to all levels of management, from first-time supervisors to experienced executives. There is often pressure on managers to ‘be perfect’ which none of us are. However, I do think that the principles of good management are universal and that everyone can continue to improve.

What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?

I wanted to write a book that managers could use to improve their skills and performance, regardless of their experience level. I also wanted to write a book that was easy to read and understand, even for those who were not familiar with management theories.

I know that managers are busy people, so I wanted to write a book that they could read and implement quickly and steadily. I also wanted to avoid jargon and technical language and focus on providing readers with the essential information they need to be effective managers.

Finally, I set out to write a book that would be inspiring and motivating to readers. I wanted to help managers to develop their leadership skills and build high-performing teams.

What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?

I am somewhat unusual in that I have years of practical experience as well as a PhD in this area. The combination of university work (teaching MBA and Human Resources students) as well as my consulting has given me a unique perspective on management.

I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of managers and executives at all levels, and I have seen firsthand what it takes to be successful. This experience has informed my writing in several ways. First, it has helped me to identify the most common challenges that managers face. Second, it has given me a deep understanding of the best practices for managing people.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day?

That the biggest difference we can make is to work on ourselves and our own character. This is something that is always within our control and able to be improved. Therefore, no matter what is going on around us, there are opportunities for continual improvement.

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