The One Minute Manager

The One Minute Manager Approach to Leading a Team

Spend some time with your team at the beginning of a new project.

Tell them that you will provide honest feedback—whether good or bad—and that while it might sometimes feel awkward, it is the best approach for everyone’s success.

Set a one-minute goal (clearly explain your expectations).

Review whether they are on the right track. If not, ask them what the problem is. Ask what is happening now versus what should be happening instead (what the goal is). Then, ask what they need to do to change the situation.

Do not make decisions for them.

Perform a one-minute praising at the start of the project when you catch them doing a good job.

Shake their hands and express appreciation for their work (be specific about what they’ve done well). Tell them how good you feel about their efforts and how it benefits the organization and others. Pause for a moment of silence so they can truly absorb the praise. Encourage them to continue the good work.

Use a one-minute reprimand when an experienced team member makes a serious mistake.

Clearly state what they did wrong (be specific). Explain how you feel about it. Pause for a moment to let them process your feedback. Then, reassure them that they are valuable team members who generally perform well but made an error this time.

The One Minute Manager philosophy is simple: People who feel good about themselves produce results.