The Manager Method - by Ashley Herd (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A practical, real-world guide that helps managers lead with confidence using a proven 3-step framework--Pause, Consider, Act--to navigate challenges, build strong teams, and avoid burnout.

Most managers are promoted because they excel at their jobs--but the moment they step into a new leadership role, they're expected to know how to motivate teams, navigate tough conversations, and drive results with little to no guidance. Manager Method fills this gap, and provides managers at any level with practical, real-world strategies to help them lead with clarity, confidence, and impact--without burning out.

Built on Ashley Herd's proven 3-step framework--Pause, Consider, Act--this book simplifies leadership into an actionable process that helps managers make better decisions, set expectations, and build high-performing teams. Unlike theory-heavy leadership books, Manager Method is designed for busy professionals who need answers now and delivers the step-by-step techniques to make that happen now.

With a background as a former Chief People Officer and General Counsel--with experience supporting leaders across organizations including McKinsey--Ashley has trained over 250,000 managers throughout her career. The Manager Method delivers these tools directly to readers to help them lead effectively, build trust, and grow their careers without sacrificing their well-being.

Review Quotes

"From the restaurant floor to the corporate boardroom, The Manager Method reminds us that leadership is about more than results--it's about people. Ashley Herd shows that no matter where you lead, you have the privilege by combining your authentic voice with practical tips and tools that turn good intentions into everyday actions. Every manager, whether serving guests or guiding global teams, can learn from these lessons and lead with purpose."
-- Greg Creed, former CEO of Taco Bell and Yum! Brands

"I had the pleasure of working with Ashley at McKinsey and later inviting her to speak to my master's level Talent Management class at Boston College--she's the real deal. The Manager Method brings her clarity, empathy, and humor to life, offering practical tools every leader can use. Ashley makes you feel like you can handle even the toughest people challenges with confidence and care."
-- Kerry Casey, VP of Talent Acquisition, Pegasystems

"Ashley brings to life the human side of leadership through a lens of heart, common sense, smarts, and wit. She helps managers see why becoming authentic leaders is so important, and she gives them the tools to get there."
-- Melanie Bootes, former Chief Legal Officer, KFC

"If you want a better culture, you need to invest in better managers. The Manager Method takes leadership from theory to practice, giving managers the real skills to not just drive results, but empower their people in a way that lasts."
-- Laurie Ruettimann, LinkedIn Learning Instructor and author of Betting on You

"We found Ashley on Instagram and loved her Luke responses so we rolled out her Manager 101 course to all of our managers and have seen a big improvement on what is expected and how to be a better manager across our organization. Ashley not only knows management but brings a great US and international compliance perspective with her legal background. Now all of our new and aspiring managers go through Ashley's Manager Method program."
-- Colin Slade, Chief People Officer, Cloudbeds

"The Manager Method is a game changer for anyone leading teams! Ashley delivers practical, empowering insights with her signature expert approach, offering managers the tools they need to truly inspire others, not just manage them. A must-read for anyone serious about effective leadership."
-- Leigh Elena Henderson, founder and creator of HRManifesto, LLC, and HR Besties podcast co-host

"If I had Ashley's Manager Method sooner, I could've helped managers avoid so many headaches. This book is like a cheat code for handling the awkward, messy, and 'wait, what do I do now?' moments of leadership--with actual, practical advice that works."
-- Jamie Jackson, founder of Humorous Resources and HR Besties podcast co-host

About the Author

ASHLEY HERD is a Legal and HR leader with experience at organizations including McKinsey & Company and Yum! Brands. She is an employment attorney, corporate leader, and podcast host who has trained over 300,000 managers through LinkedIn Learning and live corporate trainings. Ashley has spent her career helping professionals navigate leadership challenges with clarity and confidence.