The three most important functions of an effective manager

In his excellent book, Quick and Nimble, author Adam Bryant reports on a fascinating study done by Google, called Project Oxygen. The purpose was to determine the most important actions of effective managers. They went through an extensive observation, rating and analytic process, and arrived at 3 top actions. Effective managers' most important attributes, they found, were calmness and taking the time for one on one meetings with employees, helping employees think through problems by asking questions, and caring about their employees' careers and lives.

Think about the best managers you have had, or employ. Do you agree or disagree with the conclusions of Project Oxygen? How do you assess your leaders in these vital skills?

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