How to Be an Even Better Manager: A Complete A–Z of Proven Techniques and Essential Skills

Good management brings people and resources together to achieve what individuals cannot accomplish alone. In the 11th edition of How to Be an Even Better Manager, Michael Armstrong maps that work across 40 practical topics—from motivating a team and managing performance to making decisions, handling conflict, and budgeting.

Organized as an A–Z reference across four sections, the book is designed to be read in sequence or consulted chapter by chapter. It offers current and aspiring managers a broad framework for developing the skills involved in managing people, processes, themselves, and business finances.

Four sides of the manager’s role

• Managing people: motivation, engagement, leadership, team building, performance, learning, and difficult situations.
• Management skills: organization, planning, delegation, change, conflict, projects, and time.
• Personal skills: persuasion, negotiation, communication, listening, presentations, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Business and financial management: business cases and budgeting, alongside the broader responsibilities of being business-like.

A reference you can use topic by topic

Each chapter is self-contained, making it straightforward to turn to a particular management question. The opening chapter provides an overall framework, while the remaining chapters address specific skills and techniques. The eleventh edition was extensively revised and includes new case studies.

For managers building their capabilities

This book is intended for current and aspiring managers who want to develop their managerial capabilities, and the author notes that it may be particularly useful to those pursuing management qualifications. Its wide-ranging coverage makes it a practical place to consult when a challenge calls for a closer look at one specific aspect of the role.