Based on the largest study of its kind ever undertaken, more than 80,000 managers in 400 companies reveal revolutionary insights about successful managerial behavior. The authors, both management consultants for the Gallup Organization, use the company's study of 80,000 managers in 400 companies to reach the conclusion that a company that lacks great frontline managers will bleed talent, no matter how attractive the compensation packages and training opportunities. With this in mind, they sought the answers to the follow-up questions: "How do great managers find, focus and keep talented employees. " Using case studies, diagrams, and excerpts from interviews, Buckingham and Coffman guide us through their findings that discipline, focus, trust, and, most important, willingness to treat each employee as an individual are the overall secrets for turning talent into lasting performance. The book concludes with suggestions on how to become a great manager, including ideas for interviewing for talent, how to develop a performance management routine, and how to get the best performance from talented employees. Although this is clearly an infomercial for the Gallup Organization, it nevertheless offers thoughtful advice on the essential task of developing excellent managers. ((Reviewed May 15, 1999))(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 1999, American Library Association. ) Review Quotes: Michael W. Morrison Dean, University of Toyota This is it! With compelling insight backed by powerful Gallup data, Buckingham and Coffman have built the unshakable foundation of effective management. For the first time, a clear pathway has been identified for creating engaged employees and high-performance work units. It has changed the way I approach developing managers. "First, Break All the Rules" is a critical resource for every front-line supervisor, middle manager, and institutional leader. Review Quotes: Harriet Johnson Brackey "Miami Herald" Finally, something definitive about what makes for a great workplace. Review Quotes: Bradbury H. Anderson President and COO, Best Buy This book challenges basic beliefs of great management with powerful evidence and a compelling argument. "First, Break All the Rules" is essential reading.