Management Tools Podcast

Aaron Cox, HSE Director and CMT Advisor, listens to Management Tools’ weekly podcast and frequently revisits episodes to help him grow as a manager.

“This resource has been a huge help for me. I struggled to learn how to manage people who work differently than myself, as well as stay organized and consistent. You can listen to the episodes on the go, and the lessons from them come from some very experienced former CEOs who now teach this profession. 

Although the podcast is free, I also have a paid membership to Management Tools, which is roughly $200 a year, and frequently take advantage of it. It provides resources, presentations, and tools to implement the items they teach, such as one-on-ones, feedback training, and delegation.”

How did you find this resource?

“I tried about 10 different items from eBooks to classes and podcasts, but I wanted something that could help me take advantage of my commutes to and from work, and podcasts really fit that. This podcast fits my style and makes sense to me, so I’ve stuck with it. I’ve probably listened to over 100 of their podcasts at this point.”

How do you apply this resource?

“I regularly monitor newsletters and listen to new podcast episodes every Tuesday. I have the app on my phone for tracking things I do, and I will revisit topics as they come up in my management role. For example, if someone wants to grow their skills or professional life, I can listen to podcasts and help them; if I have an employee struggling at something, I can listen to podcasts and feedback and empower them to grow and improve.”

How has this resource impacted on your work?

“In two primary ways: communication and building relationships. First, through Manager Tools, I discovered DiSC – a tool for understanding personality styles and communication. Using this tool to tailor my management style to my team members has helped me communicate and understand my team. Second, it has given me the ability to build strong relationships and trust with my team. Rather than hiding things or frustration, we work through struggles and opportunities to grow.

Who would you recommend this resource to and why?

“I would recommend this to any manager who feels like they are struggling to get through to their staff and wants to try something new.  It’s simple and effective, and almost everyone I have recommended it to has had a good outcome.”

Any additional considerations?

“The cost of losing employees or being frustrated with staff or worse – them frustrated with their manager – is way higher than that.  Take the time to invest in yourself as a manager and do better for your team.”