How to Manage in a Flat WorldSusan Bloch and Philip Whitely (Financial Times/Prentice Hall, Oct 30, 2007)Reviewed by admin Mon 24 Nov 08 Bob's Rating: I liked this book. The topic has been well researched and the book is carefully laid out. Each chapters starts with an overview, “Key Points” and concludes with a summary of “Learning Points”. This approach makes it easy for readers to get a quick gist of the chapter and key points and is also well suited to the big picture person. It would also be useful when it comes to implementing some of the ideas suggested. There are plenty of case studies, vignettes and quotes from practising managers who vary across organisations, cultures and continents. Although I did find that at times the case studies became a little too numerous and one had to dig or re-trace to grasp the point being made. Nonetheless, they were most valuable to understanding the theme of the chapter. To get all the subtle messages as well as the key points Bloch and Whitely make, it is necessary to read the book in-depth. This is not a book to be skimmed over. However, if you are in a hurry it would be easy to go to the last chapter and review the 10 key points for managing in a flat world. In fact some readers may wish to start there. In terms of content, there are many excellent tips, suggestions and proven techniques (from practising managers) that will assist managers who need to manage virtual or widely dispersed teams. Two that stood out for me were: - Communication requires an emotional commitment to engage, and - It is easier to overcome the limitations of virtual contact if there is a rapport between individuals Of course, the authors go on to explain how to implement these ideas. One quote from Dadvid Grigson, CEO, Reuters is also memorable: - “Managing your people is often less urgent, but is always more important” I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has to manage virtual, multicultural or multinational teams. |
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