Understanding and Changing Your Management Style

An update of the classic book that reveals the 6 keys to successful management In this new edition of his best-selling book, Robert Benfari explains that the best mangers are not born that way but share a mix of characteristics that can be analyzed, understood, and most importantly changed. He identifies the six characteristics of successful managers (Psychological Type; Needs/Motivation; Use of Power; Conflict Style; Our Basic Values; and Our Reaction to Stress) and uses these building blocks to show how anyone can use personality-specific strategies for resolving conflicts, solving problems, managing stress, handling difficult situations at work, and positively influencing others. Includes a proven pathway for becoming an effective manager Contains new information on management style and leadership, human nature and neuroscience, and the dark side of management Includes a self-assessment for each of the six building blocks to successful management This research-based book offers the tools leaders need to improve their management style and succeed in the workplace.

Preface v About the Author vii Introduction: What Leaders and Managers Need to Know About Human Nature 1 1 Assumptions, Perceptions, and Feelings: How They Influence Performance 17 Pre–Chapter 2 Activity: What is My Psychological Type? 51 2 Psychological Type: A Cognitive Approach 63 Pre–Chapter 3 Activity: What Are My Needs? 115 3 Needs: Our Pathways to Competence 125 Pre–Chapter 4 Activity: What Are My Power Bases? 145 4 The Bases of Power: The Uses and Abuses of Influence 153 Pre–Chapter 5 Activity: What is My Conflict Style? 181 5 Conflict: Getting to Resolution 193 6 Values: Our Compass in Life 223 Pre–Chapter 7 Activity: What is My Stress Quotient? 243 7 Stress: Responding to Pressure 255 8 Management Scenarios 289 9 Integration of the Building Blocks 317 Bibliography 331 Index 337