I like to help authors. I know how hard it is to publish. But I groaned when I was asked to write a short introduction to this book. Over the years, I’ve devoured management books purchased at airports and have often thought, “If the authors are so smart, why are they not running General Electric?”

However, this book is an easy, worthwhile read that uncovers some profound truths. I recognised immediately the types of people and problems they identify in their work. I also recognise my past failure to zero in and assist those who can do better if handled differently.

The authors use language and situations that New Zealanders will understand and relate to. The trick is to make other people’s ambitions and needs your own and then to fold their skills and experience into an organisation’s common purpose. This book provides examples and a practical roadmap to do just that.

I commend this book to managers who know they must utilise all the talents of their organisation to do better.  It is a good read as well as a useful tool for success.

Effective management of people is the hallmark of all great leaders. Without a strong leader, a business will inevitably fail. My favourite saying has always been, “The fish rots from the head.”

Whilst for some of us, the process of leadership and managing people is intrinsic, for many it is not. What makes this book an excellent business tool is that it has identified the types of employees that typically make up a work environment. It divides them into four categories and for each of these categories, you are given the tools to effectively manage and get the best from each of your employees. These tools will help you grow your people and your organisations.

People are the lifeblood of any company. All too often they are mismanaged and undervalued. Many company leaders simply see the weekly pay packet as reward enough. Such an average approach to leadership will create an average organisation. In a marketplace that is undergoing some serious reconstruction with our current recession, average organisations will inevitably cease to exist.  As a resource, this book will create a point of reflection and a chance to work on how you manage your most vital asset, your people, the face of your brand and organisation. 

There really is something for every level of leader in this book. No one should stop learning or be too busy to invest in growing their knowledge.

Remember, it’s your attitude that will give your company its altitude.

Looking for a book that will assist you in getting the best from you team, then this is that book. The book opens with Tony, newly appointed to his first management position, pondering whether he has made the right decision to take promotion. We are introduced to his staff, Sam, Kimberley, Ryan and Helen, all characters that are readily recognisable in any work place. The authors describe the issues Tony faces with each staff member. Readers are then guided through a four quadrant model on competence and commitment which offers practical ideas and solutions on how to deal with each staff member and the issues they present.

 Competence and Commitment is written in a very easily read style and is a management book that readers will refer back to time and time again. This is definitely a must read for all new managers and those looking for ideas on getting the best from their team.”