I began my career in the 1980s as a C and database programmer working for several different Wall Street firms. The primary management technique was a command and control management paradigm. This resulted in strong, and perhaps somewhat narcissistic, leaders that drove projects forward and lived the mantra “No Pain, No Gain.” It produced a Type A, “take no prisoners” attitude. Work was ruled by aggressive timelines. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were eaten at the office desk and washed down by cup after cup of Jolt and Mountain Dew.
Burnout rates were high. As time went on, I knew I had to change the pace. I moved to the suburbs and became a software development manager.
With no formal management training, I took a management class at the American Management Association. The class was inspiring and a great place for me to start my managerial path. After I finished the class, my manager gave me a copy of “The Servant Leader,” the first of five books on my list of essential books for any manager.
To be a great servant leader, you must be able to have open and authentic conversations. A true dialog where both parties feel safe are able to be vulnerable, accepting, and present is difficult. Instead of engaging in critical conversations when needed, a good manager must be able to have critical discussions.
My last book recommendation is one that has a foundation in spirituality and at the same time offers concrete ways of building peace and harmony in the world. In line with the theme of this article, becoming a great manager is a journey in becoming a better person. It is a lifetime journey and having good books to guide us is a must.
Regard these books as an essential core of your library as you continue on your quest to become a great manager. These books will guide you to becoming a better manager and leader. They will give you new energy in working together with others in your company in a spirit of cooperation and entrepreneurship.
Our founder Imtiaz Mohammady believes that the way we treat each other matters and has bolstered up a culture of caring about more than just business success. Nisum has created a transparent community that gives everyone access to leadership and forums for our community to share ideas and give feedback because we value an inclusive and integrated workplace where we all can succeed.
Additionally, we invest in a wide range of learning and development tracks that cover subjects from professional development to global citizenry because we care for our people, clients, communities, and planet. I invite you to learn more about Nisum and its culture.