Unwritten Rules of Management

Via Raven’s Brain blog – an excellent collection of some unwritten management rules. While you can read the full post here, here are some of my favorites.

“If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much.

Look for what is missing. Many know how to improve what’s there; few can see what isn’t there.

However menial and trivial your early assignments may appear, give them your best effort.

Confirm the instructions you give others, and their commitments, in writing. Don’t assume it will get done.

Don’t be timid: Speak up, express yourself and promote your ideas.

Practice shows that those who speak the most knowingly and confidently often end up with the assignment to get the job done.

Promises, schedules and estimates are important instruments in a well-run business. You must make promises — don’t lean on the often-used phrase: “I can’t estimate it because it depends on many uncertain factors.”

When interacting with people outside the company, remember that you are always representing the company. Be especially careful of your commitments.

Don’t get excited in engineering emergencies: Keep your feet on the ground.

Have fun at what you do. It will be reflected in you work. No one likes a grump except another grump!

You remember 1/3 of what you read, 1/2 of what people tell you, but 100% of what you feel.

 When faced with decisions, try to look at them as if you were one level up in the organization. Your perspective will change quickly.”

Thanks Raven, for sharing these gems!