When They Win, You Win Book Summary - When They Win, You Win Book explained in key points
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When They Win, You Win summary

Russ Laraway

Being a Great Manager Is Simpler Than You Think

4.3 (206 ratings)
14 mins

Brief summary

When They Win, You Win by Russ Laraway is a guide to nurturing and developing talent within organizations. It offers practical advice on how to support and empower others to achieve their goals, ultimately benefitting both the individual and the team.

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    When They Win, You Win
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    Working with the “Big 3”

    Have you ever suffered under bad management? Perhaps you’ve struggled with unclear direction from your boss. Or lacked coaching to develop your skills. Or felt adrift in your job without guidance on advancing your career. It might only be a small consolation, but if so, you’re only one of many.

    Most managers fail to lead their teams effectively. But there’s a simple formula, used by some of the best managers in the world, that’s proven to engage employees and drive results. It comes down to what’s known as the Big 3 – direction, coaching, and career support.

    First comes direction. This means clearly communicating expectations and priorities. It requires defining a long-term purpose and vision as well as short-term goals and sharing these openly with your employees. Surprisingly, even good managers often fail to provide this clarity.

    Second is coaching. Employees need frequent feedback on what they're doing well so they can repeat it. They also need constructive criticism to continuously improve. Good managers also make room for their employees’ ideas, applying them when possible and refining them as needed.

    Finally, career support entails guiding team members' growth beyond promotions. It means understanding their aspirations and actively assisting their development. This shows care for employees as human beings, not just workers.

    Ample data shows that the Big 3 behaviors measurably improve employee engagement. And increased engagement has been linked to productivity, profitability, and other key measures of good business. When managers embrace direction, coaching, and career support, it creates a cycle of winning for employees, leaders, and the business.

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    Key ideas in When They Win, You Win

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    What is When They Win, You Win about?

    When They Win, You Win (2022) is your guide to being a great manager. This playbook reveals the simple leadership principles that unlock your employees’ full potential, create happy, engaged teams, and drive better business results.

    When They Win, You Win Review

    When They Win, You Win (2020) by Russ Laraway is a captivating book that reveals the secrets of thriving in a competitive work environment. Here's why you should add it to your reading list:

    • It offers practical strategies and actionable tips to help you succeed and excel in your career.
    • With real-life stories and examples, it gives you valuable insights into the mindset and behaviors of high-performing individuals.
    • It keeps you hooked with its fascinating anecdotes and compelling narratives, making it a meaningful and enjoyable read.

    Who should read When They Win, You Win?

    • Managers and leaders looking to improve employee satisfaction
    • Founders and entrepreneurs seeking to build effective teams and retain top talent
    • Business school students studying organizational behavior and human resources

    About the Author

    Russ Laraway is the chief people officer at Goodwater Capital. He’s previously held leadership roles at Qualtrics, Google, and Twitter, and cofounded financial tool company Candor, Inc. Drawing on his experience as a former US Marine Corps commander and Wharton MBA, he brings a unique perspective on linking employee experience with business results.

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    When They Win, You Win FAQs 

    What is the main message of When They Win, You Win?

    The main message of When They Win, You Win is to embrace a collaborative approach to success and to support others in order to achieve your own goals.

    How long does it take to read When They Win, You Win?

    The reading time for When They Win, You Win varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is When They Win, You Win a good book? Is it worth reading?

    When They Win, You Win is an insightful read with practical advice on collaboration and achieving success. It's definitely worth your time.

    Who is the author of When They Win, You Win?

    The author of When They Win, You Win is Russ Laraway.

    What to read after When They Win, You Win?

    If you're wondering what to read next after When They Win, You Win, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Leading from the Middle by Scott Mautz
    • Why Managers Matter by Nicolai J. Foss & Peter G. Klein
    • Radical Candor by Kim Scott
    • Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
    • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
    • Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    • Attitude Reflects Leadership by Leo Hamblin
    • Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
    • High Growth Handbook by Elad Gil
    • Deliberate Calm by Jacqueline Brassey