The Managerial Skill Gap: Laurie Ruettimann Highlights a Solution in ‘The Manager Method’

In a recent LinkedIn post, Laurie Ruettimann discusses a pervasive challenge in the corporate world: the promotion of individuals into management roles without adequate leadership training. Ruettimann highlights a new book, “The Manager Method” by Ashley Herd, as a critical resource for addressing this widespread deficiency.

Ruettimann opens by stating a common scenario:

“Most managers get promoted because they’re good at their jobs. Then they’re expected to lead people with zero training.”

This observation sets the stage for Ruettimann’s endorsement of Herd’s “The Manager Method,” which the author describes as a foundational guide for effective people management. Ruettimann emphasizes that the book offers a structured approach, built on a simple yet powerful framework: Pause, Consider, Act. This methodology, Ruettimann suggests, provides leaders with a repeatable process for essential managerial tasks.

The Universality of “The Manager Method”

While the book is aimed at new managers, Ruettimann points out its broader applicability. According to Ruettimann, the principles outlined by Ashley Herd are relevant not only for those new to leadership but also for seasoned executives who may have strayed from fundamental management practices. Furthermore, Ruettimann notes the value for HR professionals who are tasked with developing managers but may not have direct, personal experience in managing teams themselves.

A Practical Field Guide

Ruettimann underscores the practical, experience-based nature of “The Manager Method.” The author references Herd’s extensive background:

“Ashley trained over 250,000 managers as a former Chief People Officer and General Counsel. This isn’t theory. It’s a field guide from someone who has done the work.”

This emphasis on real-world application, as highlighted by Ruettimann, positions the book as an indispensable tool for anyone in a managerial position or supporting those who are. Ruettimann concludes the post with a direct call to action, recommending the book for its practical insights.

Addressing the Training Deficit

Laurie Ruettimann’s post effectively draws attention to a critical gap in professional development. By covering Ashley Herd’s “The Manager Method,” Ruettimann champions a resource designed to equip managers with the essential skills they often lack upon promotion. As Ruettimann implies, the transition from individual contributor to people leader requires a distinct set of competencies that are frequently overlooked in traditional career progression.

The core message, as conveyed by Ruettimann, is that effective management is a learnable skill, not an innate talent. The framework of Pause, Consider, Act offers a tangible method for navigating complex leadership scenarios. Ruettimann’s endorsement suggests that investing in such practical training can significantly improve managerial effectiveness and, consequently, overall organizational success.

Ruettimann’s coverage of “The Manager Method” serves as a valuable service to the business community, highlighting a resource that aims to rectify the common issue of underprepared managers. The author’s framing of the book as a “field guide” reinforces its practical utility.