The One Minute Manager – What I Learned and How It Can Help You

Why The One Minute manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson continues to shape my leadership approach

As a business coach, I’ve read a lot of leadership books. Some are brilliant but dense, packed with theories that take months to implement. Others feel good in the moment but fade away before you can put them into practice.

Then I came across The One Minute Manager  by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson It’s short, simple, and incredibly practical. And here’s the thing – I didn’t just read it. I used it. And it changed the way I work with my clients, my team, and even how I run my own business.

Why It Resonated with Me as a Coach

In coaching, I see the same challenges come up again and again:

  • Leaders unclear about what they expect from their teams

  • Employees craving recognition but rarely receiving it

  • Managers putting off difficult conversations until problems become crises

The One Minute Manager’s three core principles – One Minute Goals, One Minute Praising’s and One Minute Re‑Directs – offered a structure I could teach and use immediately.

1. One Minute Goals

I’ve learned that most team underperformance comes down to unclear expectations.
When goals are vague, people waste energy guessing what “good” looks like.

Now, I make sure goals are so clear that in under a minute, anyone could say:

  • What they’re working on

  • How success will be measured

  • The deadline

For my clients, this has eliminated the “I thought you meant…” conversations that can derail projects.

2. One Minute Praising’s

Early in my career, I underestimated the power of quick, specific praise. I’d wait for big milestones before recognising someone’s effort.

Now, I make it a habit to spot small wins and acknowledge them immediately.
It’s amazing how a simple, “That was a great client call – you handled their concerns perfectly,” can boost confidence and motivation.

For my clients, building this into their daily leadership routine has transformed team morale.

3. One Minute Re‑Directs

I used to see leaders put off difficult conversations until review time – or worse, let issues fester.
The One Minute Manager taught me to address problems right away, respectfully, and with a focus on solutions.

The key?

  • State what went wrong.

  • Explain the impact.

  • Reaffirm your belief in the person’s ability to improve.

This keeps relationships strong while ensuring standards stay high.

How It’s Changed My Coaching

I no longer teach leadership as a long, drawn‑out process of endless meetings.
Instead, I help my clients master:

  • Clarity (set expectations upfront)

  • Recognition (reward progress in real time)

  • Correction (address mistakes quickly and constructively)

These three habits have helped my clients increase productivity, reduce staff turnover, and build a culture of accountability — without adding more hours to their week.

How It Can Help You

If you’re a business owner feeling like you spend your life firefighting or micromanaging, these principles can give you back your time and make your team stronger.

Here’s how to start this week:

  1. Monday: Set one‑minute goals with each team member.

  2. Daily: Look for small wins and praise them immediately.

  3. When Needed: Address issues right away – short, private, respectful.

The One Minute Manager has taught me that leadership isn’t about doing more – it’s about doing the right things consistently.
If you adopt these habits, you’ll not only lead better, you’ll free yourself to focus on the bigger picture… the one you started your business for in the first place.