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Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day

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Striving to excel in management? Learn fresh ways to go beyond the open-door policy and become the best boss anyone ever had.

Struggling to advance from hands-on work to team-building? Fumbling for the best way to communicate? Desperate to avoid the pitfalls plaguing other first-time managers? With over two decades teaching MBA students and with doctoral research into workplace integrity, Australian Human Resources Institute Fellow Dr. Dominic McLoughlin has the real-world understanding needed to turn wide-eyed novices into tomorrow’s highly sought-after leaders. And now he’s here to share practical techniques to come out from behind the desk and inspire others to brilliant levels of productivity.

Be a Better Manager is a no-fluff actionable guide to transition into a supervisory role and become someone others clamor to follow. Featuring examples and stories backed by analysis, each chapter focuses on concrete skills to set beginning bosses on the path to success. And by implementing these core concepts, you’ll embark on a journey of self-fulfillment, unparalleled professional growth, and dynamic leadership.

In Be a Better Manager in 5 Minutes a Day, you’ll find:
Methods for developing people to catapult the department from good to great
How to grow communication that promotes consistency and provides honesty-driven wins
Inspiring systems for keeping goals at the forefront to drive healthy motivation
Strategies to help make the move from worker to a facilitator of an energized staff
Approaches to overcoming inevitable difficulties, delegating responsibilities, and much, much more!

Be a Better Manager is a down-to-earth manual for anyone stepping into the shoes of management. If you like concise explanations, advice culled from solid research, and in-the-trenches guidance, then you’ll love Dr. McLoughlin’s clear and accessible handbook.

137 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2022

17 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

About the author

Dominic McLoughlin

5 books9 followers
DOMINIC MCLOUGHLIN is an experienced leadership consultant with over 20 years’ experience in Leadership, Human Resources and Strategic Management. He has worked in many industries including finance, IT, retail, education, health care and not-for-profit industries.

Dominic has maintained an educational focus, teaching a range of leadership, management and human resources courses at various universities. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Master of Business, and a PhD in Management.

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Mariana.
607 reviews9 followers
July 27, 2023
In Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day by Dominic McLoughlin, we are presented with an invaluable guide that offers helpful information to elevate one's managerial prowess. McLoughlin's writing style exudes approachability while delivering concise yet impactful daily exercises, making this book a transformative resource for those seeking to enhance their managerial skills. With McLoughlin's expertise, the book comprehensively addresses various essential managerial topics, encompassing communication, delegation, motivation, and team building. Each insight is presented in a pragmatic and actionable manner, buttressed by real-world examples that underscore their effectiveness. As a result, readers find themselves well-equipped to readily implement the strategies and concepts provided. The book's interactive nature fosters profound self-reflection and personal growth. Through thought-provoking exercises, readers are prompted to critically evaluate their managerial styles, identify areas for improvement, and cultivate new habits conducive to positive change. McLoughlin masterfully adopts a conversational tone, weaving relatable anecdotes throughout the content, thereby creating an approachable and enjoyable reading experience. The book strikes a harmonious balance between informative guidance and entertaining storytelling, effectively sustaining readers' motivation and investment in their journey toward managerial excellence.

Whether one is a newly appointed manager or a seasoned veteran, Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day empowers individuals to effect meaningful improvements and attain lasting success in their managerial roles. With a wealth of wisdom at your fingertips, this book promises to be a guiding light, illuminating the path toward enhanced managerial efficacy and accomplishment.

Profile Image for Margarita Garcia.
945 reviews18 followers
July 27, 2023
Through each chapter, author Dominic McLoughlin delves into the crucial significance of fostering trust between a manager and their team, emphasizing the manifold benefits that ensue from this essential bond and providing practical guidance on how to build and nurture trust. The author also touches upon the profound impact of a manager's mindset and behavior on the team's dynamics, highlighting the power of positive leadership and proactive management.

The author deftly navigates topics such as transforming mistakes into opportunities, effectively motivating your team and more. Each concept is meticulously laid out, rendering the book an intelligible and easy-to-follow resource. The use of accessible language ensures that readers can effortlessly grasp and implement the strategies delineated within its pages. Dr. McLoughlin goes the extra mile to enhance the learning experience by providing supplementary video links and a practical workbook, thus enabling readers to apply the acquired knowledge in real-life scenarios—an invaluable bonus for self-improvement. The benefits of becoming a proficient, efficient, and proactive manager are laid bare not only for oneself but also for the team and the organization at large. Drawing upon the author's wealth of experiential wisdom, the strategies presented in the book are nothing short of invaluable insights crafted from a lifetime of learning. A cornerstone of the book's appeal lies in its capacity to challenge readers to undertake an internal transformation—one that compels them to step outside their comfort zone and ascend to new heights of managerial excellence. As a result, Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day holds the promise of becoming a treasured gem in your collection, a must-read for those who aspire to elevate themselves and their teams, driving toward the achievement of loftier goals.
Profile Image for Aneley Sánchez.
988 reviews24 followers
July 28, 2023
Be a better Manager!

McLoughlin candidly addresses the obstacles inherent in assuming a leadership position, particularly for novices, yet refrains from portraying them as insurmountable hurdles. Instead, he adeptly frames them as challenges to be met with strategic tools and solutions. While the book is specially tailored for those lacking experience, its insights are equally applicable and beneficial for individuals already in leadership positions—there is always something to learn or improve upon, and this book serves as an exceptional resource for continual growth. Each chapter serves as a focused exploration of a particular point or skill, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout the book. The information conveyed not only proves genuinely useful but is also grounded in real-life experiences and supported by relevant research, instilling credibility and trust in the reader. Appreciation is due to the author's profound understanding of the practical realities of the professional realm, allowing him to translate this knowledge into a highly applicable and invaluable resource. Readers will surely glean ample insights and lessons from this book, making it an enduring reference in their pursuit of excellence.
This book undoubtedly merits a place on the bookshelves of aspiring and seasoned managers alike, as its transformative guidance, bolstered by honesty and trust, is poised to elevate one's leadership capabilities to remarkable heights. Embrace this book as a cherished addition to your library, where its timeless wisdom will continue to inspire and empower your managerial journey.
Profile Image for Yolanda Gomez.
530 reviews9 followers
August 16, 2023
Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day by Dominic McLoughlin stands as a compact yet impactful guide, catering to individuals striving to elevate their managerial prowess. The book's brief nature serves as a cornerstone, channeling practical insights without inundating the reader.

The author's pronounced emphasis on fostering trust within the team struck a chord with me. His direct and effective strategies, expertly parcelled into manageable portions, facilitate seamless integration into even the busiest of schedules. It is noteworthy how the book advocates for incremental steps in cultivating trust, a notion I find commendable. The inclusion of real-world illustrations and relatable anecdotes not only ensures clarity in understanding but also facilitates practical application. While the book, in moments, touches lightly on certain subjects, a limitation understandable within the contours of its conciseness, it nonetheless facilitates a focused and effective learning experience. The inclusion of invaluable daily exercises remains a sturdy asset while also laying the foundation for potential in-depth exploration in specific domains, opening doors for readers to engage deeply in analytical thinking and practical implementation.

Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day stands as a precious resource for those embarking on the path to refined leadership. It resonates particularly with busy professionals who can carve out a few moments daily to hone their managerial acumen. While it may not claim to encompass every intricate facet of management, the book's practical guidance and its central theme of trust-building make it a highly recommended read.
Profile Image for Slmarie.
117 reviews
September 9, 2023
This book is a great compilation. It is succinct and gives informative examples for explaining team dynamics in the workplace. It’s also well cited and provides source material for the studies and facts being stated. The book is also embellished with graphs, charts, and diagrams to make the information more digestible. This allows readers to gain a comprehensive overview of what is required to excel as a manager. The positive perspective for behavior is also well valued. Values based on character are emphasized which enables interpersonal trust within the workplace. This is critical for creating the foundation to an efficient team functionality. Readers are provided insight into the key elements that the best managers have and how we as manager as able to apply it. This book is not only informative but it is also actionable. Readers are encouraged and guided with prompts that allows to put what has been learned into practice, day by day. Each chapter details positive traits and how managers can work to excel in them. I really enjoyed the perspective shared and the positive attitude of the book. As a manager of a team myself, I was able to relate a lot with the text and find ways to grow my communication style with my team. I was also able to find insight on creating a greta working environment for optimal success. Perspective and motivation plays a large part. Readers may find confirmation on the elements they are already succeeding in as well as find clarification on portions that they could personally improve for the betterment of the whole. Overall this is a solid read for anyone working in a team setting that would like to enrich their own management practice.
Profile Image for Courtnee Turner.
Author 13 books225 followers
April 27, 2023
Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day is an inspirational book by Dominic McLoughlin. Through hypothetical situations and real-life experiences, McLoughlin shows that leaders who are open to change, demonstrate desired behaviors through their actions, and focus on people will create a more cohesive team. He understands the need for application, so through exercises, he asks questions leading a reader down a path that will help them discover the best way to employ his method. Clear graphics help more visual individuals with certain topics, as the author discusses information they may know but need to utilize daily.
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In a conversational tone, Dominic McLoughlin encourages his readers to practice and reflect for five minutes a day. Managers who wish to lead by example while becoming more approachable and inspirational will find it hard to put the book down! Readers can review the text page by page or dip into a section for help in their areas of difficulty. McLoughlin understands there are many ways to manage people, but he outlines the best strategies for making an interconnected team. The author provides a generous gift with his book. He offers a free starter kit with tutorial videos, downloadable workbooks, and videos to help individuals who want to begin their journey right away. Readers can feel comfortable applying his suggestions as they are based on his experiences and observations. Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day is a good selection for readers who want to learn practical management skills that they can apply to their management style.
Profile Image for Susan B.
495 reviews10 followers
July 27, 2023
The practicality of the book's content ensures it is a valuable resource for aspiring leaders seeking to inspire and empower their teams, a pursuit that is not without its complexities.

Drawing upon a rich tapestry of real-life instances, research findings, and personal viewpoints, McLoughlin presents readers with a holistic framework for evolving into the kind of leader who cultivates a positive work environment and elicits the best from their employees. An intriguing aspect of the book is its candid depiction of the characteristics of ineffective managers, guiding readers to avoid such pitfalls. McLoughlin then proceeds to furnish practical strategies and exercises to develop the emotional intelligence requisite for cultivating meaningful and productive relationships with team members. McLoughlin's adept use of clear and concise language renders the book universally accessible, catering to a diverse readership with varying levels of familiarity with the subject matter. Through his engaging prose, readers are invited to embark on a journey of self-improvement and transformative leadership.

Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day offers a compelling blueprint for managerial growth and development. Dominic McLoughlin's expertise and the practical wisdom embedded within these pages make it an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential as an exceptional manager, leading with empathy, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to meaningful connections with their team.
Profile Image for Lia Dospetti.
100 reviews14 followers
August 3, 2023
I like the personal take on this topic! The author has gone through being managed since his first job, and that in result made him a better manager. This book is about his experience.

In a nutshell, Dominic McLoughlin encourages managers to get on a journey to becoming the best people they can be, a journey that brings mistakes and re-dos with it, sure, but certainly one that builds trust in the team and a workplace that respects human dignity and intelligence. A good manager can do things such as speaking privately to an employee to explain mistakes or praise a good job done, show genuine interest in the people working for them as well as themselves as human beings, and owning their own mistakes as learning opportunities.

The key advice is to "inspire your people to trust you" so, if you are a manager reading this review, I also encourage you to use Dominic's advice and build a successful team by building them up as people and professionals – and to use Dominic's 5-item exercises at the end of each chapters, because those will make the difference between just reading and putting new wisdom into practice.

And a side word for Dominic: I would honestly have someone redesign the book cover: the illustrations are cute and ingenious - and make this book unique! - but the lettering is not professional-looking and makes the overall cover look like an amateur's exercise. I'm sure changing this would bring positive change for sales, too.

4.5/5 stars for me!

- Lia Mara Dospetti
Profile Image for Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy.
733 reviews20 followers
August 16, 2023
An effective springboard for elevating leadership skills

McLoughlin's emphasis on cultivating trust may not be groundbreaking, yet his innovative approach to seamlessly integrating trust-building exercises into a tight schedule is truly commendable. The daily exercises not only promote consistency but also provide a platform for introspection, enabling managers to organically nurture their authentic leadership style over time. Amidst the wealth of insightful content, the book offers, there are occasional instances where it lightly brushes over the more intricate facets of effective management. For situations demanding a more comprehensive strategic approach, the book could occasionally use more depth. Furthermore, the succinctness of the chapters sometimes leaves me yearning for a more profound exploration.

I recommend Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day to both novice and seasoned managers alike. The book's succinct format caters perfectly to the demands of busy professionals seeking immediate and actionable guidance. Author McLoughlin's relatable anecdotes and realistic examples effectively bridge the gap between theory and practice, cultivating a sense of engagement. This book serves as a valuable addition to any manager's toolkit, yet it's important to note that it's most impactful when complemented with other resources that delve deeper into intricate management scenarios. Dominic McLoughlin's work offers an effective springboard for elevating leadership skills, positioning it as a must-read for those eager to enhance their managerial acumen.
84 reviews4 followers
July 28, 2023
Individuals who have recently stepped into a management role will undoubtedly find Dr. Dominic McLoughlin's book to be an invaluable companion in their journey to becoming effective leaders. However, it's not just limited to newcomers; experienced managers, too, will uncover a treasure trove of fresh insights and innovative approaches within its pages.

McLoughlin's conversational tone and approachable style made me feel like I was having a one-on-one coaching session with a seasoned mentor. The chapters are designed for quick consumption, making them perfect for busy professionals seeking actionable advice without feeling overwhelmed.

I would say each segment is a goldmine of practical wisdom that is both easy to understand and apply. The real-life scenarios and evidence-based examples provided a solid foundation for understanding the impact of good and bad leadership choices. I found myself nodding in agreement as I recognized my own past mistakes and the growth opportunities.

One of the book's unique features is the inclusion of a free starter kit. The tutorial videos, downloadable workbooks, and practical exercises were an unexpected bonus. McLoughlin's genuine desire to help readers succeed shines through, making this book feel like a true gift.

It has undoubtedly transformed me into a better version of myself, both in and out of the office. I can say, Be a Better Manager in 5 Minutes a Day is a game-changer!
146 reviews11 followers
July 10, 2023
Educative and well-structured

Are you a new manager, feeling a bit lost and overwhelmed by the responsibilities that come with leading a team? Fear not! Dr. Dominic McLaughlin has come to your rescue with his practical guide, "Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day: Create Trust in Your Team." In this no-nonsense book, McLaughlin shares his wealth of experience and provides actionable techniques to help you become the best boss anyone has ever had.

One of the standout features of this book is McLaughlin's real-world understanding of the challenges faced by new managers. With his background as an Australian Human Resources Institute Fellow and his extensive teaching experience, he knows exactly what it takes to transform inexperienced novices into highly sought-after leaders. His expertise shines through as he presents concrete skills and strategies that can be implemented in just five minutes a day.

The book covers a wide range of topics essential for effective management. McLaughlin offers ten methods for developing your team, taking your department from good to great. He also delves into the art of communication, providing five ways to promote consistency and honesty-driven wins. What sets this book apart is the author's use of examples and stories backed by analysis, making the concepts relatable and easy to grasp.
Profile Image for Kathrin Spinnler.
116 reviews12 followers
July 27, 2023
Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day by Dominic McLoughlin is a comprehensive resource for managers and team leaders. The book is split up into nine chapters, each tackling an important aspect of management. Some of the topics include how to build trust, why honesty is so important, how to learn from mistakes, and how to delegate effectively. In every section, there are lots of positive and negative examples that illustrate the points and show how they can be applied in practice. At the end of each chapter, the author gives practical tips about how to implement the solutions presented.

The author also gives readers access to additional resources such as video content. Overall, I think this is a great resource for people who are being promoted to management positions and anyone who would like to improve their management style. Unlike many other self-help books, it doesn't feel bloated, and the author always stays on topic. Although many of the concepts like 'be honest' and 'be consistent' seem obvious, the survey of over 1,000 workers mentioned in the book clearly indicates that many managers are not yet doing this. I would highly recommend this resource, which is well-researched and written in an engaging and practical way.
Profile Image for Saya Jacaranda.
755 reviews10 followers
August 17, 2023
Enlightening and thought-provoking


As a mid-level manager striving to improve, I found the book's structure and content enlightening and thought-provoking. What stood out to me was author McLoughlin's emphasis on trust as the cornerstone of effective leadership. The practical exercises provided at the end of each chapter were especially helpful. The exercises not only encouraged me to reflect on my own managerial approach but also nudged me toward tangible actions to foster trust within my team.

While the book's brevity is a plus, there were moments when I wished for deeper dives into certain topics. While I would have appreciated a greater variety of real-world case studies to provide a more extensive array of perspectives, this aspect in no way diminishes the overall value and helpfulness of this book. Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day is a recommended read for managers who are time-constrained yet eager to develop their skills. The book's pragmatic advice, backed by relatable examples, makes it accessible and actionable. Enhancing this valuable resource with more comprehensive materials can effectively tackle the intricate nature of real-world managerial challenges.
Profile Image for Brenda.
1,283 reviews23 followers
July 28, 2023
A testament to the author's adeptness in organization as this book is thoughtfully structured, with each chapter dedicated to essential skills necessary for maximizing one's potential as a manager. McLoughlin underscores the importance of goal-setting, maintaining motivation, and embracing consistency to sustain enduring success.

The simplicity and conciseness of McLoughlin's writing style are commendable, ensuring that adult readers from all walks of life can readily grasp and access the wealth of information contained within this guide. As a reader keen on developing strong leadership skills, I found the book to be utterly engaging and enlightening, unearthing key insights that are vital for cultivating effective leadership.

Be a Better Manager in Five Minutes a Day serves as a definitive manual, guiding individuals on their journey toward comprehensive management knowledge and exceptional leadership abilities. The book's ultimate aim, shared by the author, is to nurture leaders capable of achieving goals and fostering a positive impact on their teams. As such, it stands as an invaluable companion for aspiring managers and well-established leaders alike.
225 reviews11 followers
June 10, 2023
I am not a manager, not that I do not want to be I am not just at that point in my career. But there no problem starting early, isn't it? Hence, I picked up this book and I was not disappointed. This book works like a well-oiled machine which guide novice managers to become good managers and good managers to become god-tier ones. But not everyone can be a manager, this may sound harsh but it is the truth; at some point everyone has, is and will be an employee under a manager. This book also teaches how to be a good employee under a manager.

I loved this book and will recommend it to everyone, yes you heard right, irrespective of your literary tastes it not bad to learn how to manage. This book is collection of thoughts, insights, ideas and careful research done by the author. All my heartfelt gratitude goes to the author for compiling this gem of book for us the readers.

Thank you
Happy Reading
Profile Image for Lauren.
496 reviews4 followers
October 23, 2022
Thanks to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for this ARC! As a new manager, this book grabbed my attention and I am glad I read it. It's filled with good tips and presented in a straightforward way that makes it easy to digest and understand what your role is as a manager and how to improve and grow. The five minutes aspect of this book is there, but it's not necessary to follow in order to get a lot of information out of this book.
206 reviews
January 10, 2025
good read for everyone!

A good read for anyone in or looking to be a manager role. It’s also good for any working person in general. Most of the points are common sense and characteristics we should all have, but unfortunately people seem to lack to lack that now days. A great reminder in how we all should be.
Profile Image for Darya.
752 reviews18 followers
November 22, 2022
Easy, straightforward and simple book on management. If you are looking for a book to give you ideas on how good and bad managers are perceived, this one is a good resource. The contents are based on the research and simple examples as a back-up. There are good action items after each chapter as well. The contents cover overall team management as well as areas of trust, delegation, employees' encouragement and much more.
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