2001 Quote by Tom DeMarco
““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.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Peopleware by DeMarco & Lister, 1987
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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