“The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey” by Bill Onken

Who is it for? for those looking to improve their art of delegation and time management

Bill Onken’s “The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey” is a concise and impactful book that offers valuable insights into the art of delegation and time management. Building on the principles of Kenneth Blanchard’s “The One Minute Manager,” this book introduces the concept of the ‘monkey’ – a metaphor for the next move or task in any work situation.

The central thesis of the book is that managers often take on too many responsibilities (monkeys) that rightly belong to their subordinates. Onken uses this analogy to illustrate how managers can become overwhelmed by taking on their team’s problems, thus stalling productivity and hampering their team’s development. He provides practical advice on how to assign tasks (monkeys) effectively, ensuring that they are on the right back, so to speak. This approach not only frees up the manager’s time but also empowers team members to take responsibility and ownership of their work.

One of the main challenges readers may face is implementing this style of delegation in a real-world setting. The concept of letting the ‘monkey’ stay with the person who initially mentions a problem is straightforward in theory, but in practice, it requires a significant shift in management style. It involves cultivating trust, clear communication, and the ability to let go of control – aspects that can be challenging for many managers.

Another challenge is ensuring that this delegation process does not lead to neglecting support and guidance for team members. Finding the balance between empowering employees to solve their own problems and providing necessary support is crucial. Managers need to ensure that while they are not taking on their team’s monkeys, they are still accessible and supportive.

In summary, “The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their managerial effectiveness. The key challenge for readers lies in adopting and adapting its principles of delegation and responsibility management to their unique leadership style and organisational context. For those willing to embrace these concepts, the book offers a path to greater efficiency and team empowerment.