The One Minute Manager Builds High Performance Teams talks about the notion of common vision. A vision statement – conceived in a moment of inspiration but later made into a formal document – is vital to every business organization. The vision statement serves as a navigating compass for the organization, as it sets about achieving various business goals. Ideally, the vision statement should be born out of a shared set of values between all stakeholders in the company. This includes the top management, employees, shareholders and the board of directors. According to Blanchard and co-authors, the vision statement should also reflect a fair and open relationship with vendors and suppliers.
The book discusses the importance of adaptability to successful leadership. This is especially relevant in the cross-cultural and cross-geographical business environment of the era of globalization. The effectiveness of the leader is boosted by his/her ability to change leadership style according to the requirements of the group. For example, a particular stage of development of the group might require a certain leadership mindset. Equally important is the ability of the leader to empower those under his/her charge. This is easier said than done, for it is easy for leaders to feel insecure about their authority and position. It takes a courageous and large-hearted leader to motivate other to express themselves to their full potential. Such an attitude is a strong statement of team ethic on part of the leader. The leader is implicitly saying that the broader interests of the team and the organization are more important than his claim to a certain managerial perch.
The neat categorization of chapters and sub-chapters is another positive feature of the book. The chapters can be read as stand-alone essays on their own. Related contextual content is cross referenced, making navigation within the book quite easy. The naming of the chapters is systematic and concise. For example, under the main topic Understanding Group Dynamics, sub-topics, comprised of four stages, are laid out. These are, namely, Orientation, Dissatisfaction, Production and Integration. The other chapters in the book include Four Leadership Styles, Task and Maintenance Functions, Teaching Someone Else, Using the Concepts, etc. It is quite evident that the authors have done their utmost in keeping esoteric language to a minimum, making the book accessible to beginners and apprentices.