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The One Minute Apology
by Ken Blanchard and Margaret McBride
More good advice from the One Minute Manager.
Another in the One Minute Manager series, this book presents its
recommendations in the context of a story. A young man, the assistant to
the president of a troubled company, seeks guidance from the One Minute
Manager (OMM) and his family, about how to save the business.
One of the most difficult things a person may have to do in life, OMM says
to the young man, is to admit having made mistakes. Apologizing for
mistakes is an important step in restoring trust, which is a crucial
element both in business dealings and personal relationships.
To apologize successfully, a person must surrender to truths he or she
would prefer not to face. Having done this, the person should write a
statement that says exactly what the mistakes were. OMM is quick to
emphasize that “one minute” refers to how long it takes to read the
statement, and that the time devoted to writing it is likely to be much
longer. The person should apologize promptly, OMM asserts, and let actions
reinforce his or her words. The book includes a couple of examples of how
actions can underpin mere words. As the story progresses OMM repeats and
expands upon this advice.
. One of the most interesting observations OMM makes is that one should not
apologize merely to bring a problem to an end, but because apologizing is
the right thing to do, whether or not the desired outcome results. This is
part of a broader concept represented by the acronym N.A.T.O.—not attached
to outcomes. OMM suggests that good things happen when people stop
worrying only about winning or losing. It strikes me that such an approach
is useful in creative brainstorming.
By the end of the story, the young man has admitted that he should have
been more forthright in keeping the president apprised of the company's
troubles. Also, the company president has apologized to the board of
directors, and has begun to make changes that will turn the business
around. At first I thought the story was too facile. Everything clicked
too easily. I realized then, that the goal of this book was not to show how
complex life can be, but to encourage the reader to consider a particular
course of action. The One Minute Apology reveals simple truths that will
benefit most people. For those in a great hurry, there is a two page
summary of the recommendations at the end of the book.
Title: The One Minute Apology
Author: Ken Blanchard and Margaret McBride
Publisher: William Morrow
ISBN: 0688169813
Review written by: William Keogan
Reviewer's Rating:7.5
Reader's Rating: 9.67
Reader's Votes: 3
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