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Managers who inspire extraordinary loyalty from their…

“Managers who inspire extraordinary loyalty from their people tend to be highly charismatic, humorous, good-looking, and tall. So, by all means, strive to be those things. If you don't feel able to improve any of those factors very much, you might consider holding on to your people by designing a…” quote by Tom DeMarco
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““Managers who inspire extraordinary loyalty from their people tend to be highly charismatic, humorous, good-looking, and tall. So, by all means, strive to be those things. If you don't feel able to improve any of those factors very much, you might consider holding on to your people by designing a little slack into their lives.””

Tom DeMarco

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Charismatic traits help attract loyalty, but designing slack in work lives sustains it when charisma wanes.

In simple terms: Charisma draws, slack retains.

Key Takeaway

Build slack into teams.

Themes

leadership team dynamics loyalty

Mood

analytical practical

Type

management advisory

When to use this quote

  • project management
  • customer service
  • startup teams
  • remote work

Key Concepts

Organizational behavior human resources

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much slack is optimal?
  • Can you foster loyalty without charisma?
A Different Perspective

Slack may be seen as inefficiency.

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