The author of this useful primer on business management starts from the thesis that there are two equally important “sides” to managing efficiently and effectively: the rational and the emotional. Author Matteucci presents an array of tools—both rational and emotional in nature—to help the reader succeed in management.

“Time is the only resource you cannot influence,” Matteucci declares. Rather, all that can be shortened is the window of time between ideas and actions. This is best achieved through the use of an action plan, defining the business objective and guiding mission, the setting of measurable (prioritized) goals, and a follow-up review. Considerable portions are devoted as well to different types of people; that is, differing personalities and professional work-types one will likely find oneself managing in any imaginable setting. The author makes a strong case that management styles are and should be adaptable. One should manage in a way that suits one’s specific business and personnel, rather than attempting to “force” any given managerial style upon the situation and people at hand. How to hire people, how to delegate, how to reward, and more are discussed, along with negotiation and business-relationship types. Further, differing management styles are cogently analyzed in the context of striving for various end-results, such as simplicity and clear communication.

The entire book is written in accessible language, even for readers not immersed in the world of business management, and this approachability is one of its strengths. Moreover, especially in "Part Two," a plethora of useful information is provided, which compares the role of the manager to, among other things, a driver, a magnet, the builder of an optimal track, and, interestingly, an orchestra conductor. Lastly, the question of what makes an organization successful is thoroughly examined, especially in light of the appropriate roles of leadership and management.

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