Overview: The world’s greatest managers seem to have little in common. They work in completely different environments, have diverse backgrounds, and use a wide variety of methods and techniques. But they have one thing in common: they never hesitate to break all the rules. Appropriately titled, First, Break All the Rules explains why the world’s great managers break the rules, and what they do instead. It also offers advice and methods on becoming an excellent manager, as well as tools to evaluate your workplace strength and productivity.

Some other key points include:
-Do not believe that anyone can do anything they set their mind to.
-Do not promote people out of roles in which they excel and into ones where they will struggle. It is better to be successful in a role than to climb the corporate ladder.
-Reward only excellent work, because if you reward weak employees, they will continue their weak work, and the employees doing excellent work will become frustrated.

First, Break All the Rules also presents a list of 12 questions that every organization should ask its employees. If the employees can answer these questions affirmatively, then you have a productive and strong workplace.
1. Do I know what is expected of me at work?
2. Do I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right?
3. At work, do I have the opportunity to do what I do best every day?
4. In the last seven days, have I received recognition or praise for good work?
5. Does my supervisor, or someone at work, seem to care about me as a person?
6. Is there someone at work who encourages my development?
7. At work, do my opinions seem to count?
8. Does the mission/purpose of my company make me feel like my work is important?
9. Are my co-workers committed to doing quality work?
10. Do I have a best friend at work?
11. In the last six months, have I talked with someone about my progress?
12. At work, have I had the opportunities to learn and grow?