First Line Management: A Practical Approach

An accessible, interactive and comprehensive textbook, ideal for students and practising first line managers. The key responsibilities of the first line manager are explored through problem-solving case studies and lively, practical examples and activities. Summaries and self-assessment questions help students check their development as they progress through each topic. With the current requirements for flexibility in work practices and an uncertain business environment being the norm, this book will provide the support that managers need in order to undertake continuing professional development to acquire the relevant skills.
First Line Management focuses on a greater range of topics than textbooks which concentrate on management styles, organizational behaviour and communication at this level. The role of the first line manager is recognized as being the linch-pin between the organization's strategy, and the employees at operational level who have to deliver or produce services and products. Further topics which are central to this key position have therefore been included: managing products and services, recruitment, training and development, budgets and accounts and customer relationships.
First Line Management is essential reading for students studying for a Certificate in Management Studies or a Professional Development Certificate, provides the broad underpinning knowledge and understanding for those on S/NVQ Level 4 programmes and is invaluable for students needing background information for Diploma qualifications. It is also a significant resource for those on HNC/D Business programmes or studying for a BA in Business or Management.

"This book brings together an excellent range of topics, presented in a clear and forthright manner. Each chapter has good depth to the topic, presented in an extremely readable format - very 'user' friendly.

... this 'financial' chapter is one of the clearest this reviewer has read for some time and the author(s) are to be congratulated on their efforts.

...this makes the book a 'must-buy' for discerning readers." Maurice Westcott, MInstAM (Chief Examiner)