What is Monkey Management? How to Deal with a Monkey on Your Back

The video discusses the concept of 'monkey management' by William Onkan Jr., which addresses the issue of taking on tasks from others that hinder personal productivity. It outlines four rules: describing the task (monkey), assigning ownership, ensuring responsibility, and following up. By applying these rules, individuals can manage their workload effectively, focus on their tasks, and help colleagues take responsibility for their work.

What is the main problem addressed by monkey management?

• Poor communication with colleagues

• Taking on tasks that belong to others

• Inability to manage time effectively

• Lack of productivity due to personal issues

In the monkey metaphor, what does saying 'leave it with me' imply?

• You are ignoring the task

• You are completing the task immediately

• You are taking on someone else's task

• You are delegating the task

What is the first rule of monkey management?

• Describe the monkey

• Assign a deadline

• Take out insurance

• Check up on the monkey

Who should be assigned ownership of the monkey according to Rule 2?

• The most experienced person

• The person who can handle it with the least risk

• The person who asked for help

• The manager

What does 'taking out insurance' mean in monkey management?

• Assigning the task to multiple people

• Making sure the task is not forgotten

• Providing the right level of authority and responsibility

• Ensuring the task is completed on time

What is the purpose of checking up on the monkey?

• To reassign the task if needed

• To complete the task yourself

• To ensure the task is progressing as planned

• To delegate the task to another team

How does proper monkey management benefit the team?

• It eliminates the need for meetings

• It reduces the number of tasks

• It helps team members learn and take responsibility

• It increases the manager's workload