Welcome to "Key Behaviors of Successful Managers: Project Oxygen Insights." In this unit, you will explore the groundbreaking research conducted by Google, known as Project Oxygen. This study identifies key behaviors that distinguish outstanding managers from average ones, providing actionable insights to help you become a more effective leader. You'll learn behaviors that drive team success, improve morale, and enhance productivity—valuable knowledge for anyone seeking to excel in management. Let's dive in and discover what makes exceptional managers truly stand out.

In early 2009, Google initiated Project Oxygen to address the challenge of improving management quality within the company. By analyzing performance reviews, feedback surveys, and nominations for top-manager awards, Google gathered over 10,000 observations from more than 100 variables. The surprising insight was that technical expertise ranked last in importance. Instead, behaviors like accessibility, making time for one-on-ones, and showing interest in employees' lives and careers were found to be crucial.

These findings were incorporated into training programs, resulting in significant improvements in manager quality, especially among the lowest-performing managers. One-on-one coaching was pivotal, with some managers improving so much that they earned promotions. The effectiveness of these changes continues to be monitored and refined, aligning them with Google's unique culture and data.

Project Oxygen identified several essential behaviors for effective management. These behaviors are briefly introduced here and will be explored in more detail in subsequent lessons:

1. Is a good coach: Effective managers provide guidance that enhances employee performance and development.
2. Empowers team and does not micromanage: Encouraging autonomy boosts both creativity and morale.
3. Create an inclusive team environment, showing concern for success and well-being: Managers who show concern for team members' success and well-being foster a positive and productive atmosphere.
4. Is productive and results-oriented: Focusing on outcomes and maintaining high standards inspires teams.
5. Is a good communicator - listens and shares information: Good managers listen and share information transparently, fostering collaboration.
6. Supports career development and discusses performance: Discussing performance and career paths keeps team members motivated.
7. Has a clear vision/strategy for the team: Providing a clear roadmap ensures everyone understands priorities and objectives.
8. Has key technical skills to help advise the team: While not the most critical, having relevant skills helps managers advise their teams effectively.
9. Collaborates across Google: Effective managers work seamlessly with other departments.
10. Is a strong decision maker: Making informed and timely decisions is crucial for success.

Note: The behaviors are not ranked by importance.

Each of these behaviors will be revisited in later lessons where we will dive deeper into their practical applications and strategies for implementation.

As you explore the key behaviors identified by Project Oxygen, reflect on their relevance to your own company and team. Consider which behaviors are most applicable to your team's success, which ones you already practice well, and which could be more beneficial but are currently underutilized.

For example, if creating an inclusive team environment resonates with your current needs, implement practices that promote inclusivity and concern for well-being. By aligning your management practices with these proven strategies, you can foster a more effective and harmonious work environment.

Some ideas can include:

• Encourage open communication.
• Show genuine interest in team members’ well-being.
• Celebrate diversity and different perspectives.
• Offer recognition and positive reinforcement.
• Create psychological safety.
• Provide equal opportunities for development.
• Establish inclusive decision-making processes.
• Implement clear and fair policies.

Prepare for the upcoming role-play sessions where you’ll discuss the purpose and background of Project Oxygen, delve into the key insights from the research, and reflect on their relevance to your team. These sessions will help you apply these behaviors in real-world scenarios.