The transition from line staff to management is fraught with difficulty. Sixty percent of new managers either fail outright or underperform in their first two years, while 51% of managers said they were unprepared for their first managerial role. In this quick-reference guide, Master Trainer and Professional Coach Joan Underwood shares practical insights and proven strategies for conquering the three most common challenges associated with this transition-managing self, managing others, and managing processes.


This practical "how-to" guide is an invaluable resource for experienced, new, and aspiring supervisors and managers who would like to take their performance to the next level. Underwood draws from over twenty-five years of experience as a manager, lecturer, HR practitioner, consultant, trainer, and coach to craft a relatable blend of theory, practical models, proven strategies, and engaging stories. As a bonus, each chapter contains activities designed to help readers apply and reinforce the lessons learned.


By implementing the strategies in this guide, you will:
- Make a smoother transition from individual contributor to manager
- Possess a higher level of self-awareness
- Gain proven strategies for self-regulation
- Have the ability to anticipate and respond rather than merely reacting to challenges
- Possess an enhanced ability to get things done with and through others


It's time to distinguish yourself from the majority of managers struggling to succeed in a new and challenging role. Managers' First Aid Kit is your go-to resource to master the art and science of managing, so you can become the leader your company needs and the best manager you have the capacity to be.