Business Fads: The Latest, Greatest in Management Techniques

Like diets, management fads come and go. Some "guru" will come up with a catchy term to describe an area of management, and before long there is a line of people signed up for a seminar to learn the latest greatest thing in management.

While in truth, these a lot of these fads are not all wrong. The problem is, many of them focus so tightly on one area of effective management, that other important areas are being overlooked.

Before you jump on the bandwagon of the next fad, there are a couple of things you should consider.

First and foremost, does it make sense. If you are in management, you have obviously paid some dues. You have shown at least a basic understanding of business in general, and your business specifically. If you hear something that sends up a red flag, don't just bury your concerns and move on. Examine why the alarm went up. Trust your instincts enough to at least explore the possibility that things may not be sound business-wise as the gurus make it seem.

Next make sure it doesn't ignore important aspects of your business. There are many areas that a manager must tend to. Ignoring one area in favor of another just doesn't make good business sense. I knew a colleague that was so enamored by "Management by Walking Around" that he neglected the necessary time in the office. He knew what was going on with his people on the floor, and they all thought he was a fantastic leader, but his paperwork was a mess. Reports were late, orders were missing, and costs began to skyrocket. It requires balance. Any management techniques must keep that balance in mind.

The key is to remember that just because someone has a book does not make them a business expert. It just means they convinced someone to publish their book. Read the ideas. Take away the parts that make sense for you, your style, and your business. Keep in mind the importance of balance, and trust your instincts. If you do it well enough, maybe you can write a book.