Book Review: "Explicit Expectations" by Karl Hebenstreit—A Practical Toolkit to Transform Management and Team Culture
"Explicit Expectations: The Essential Guide & Toolkit of Management Fundamentals" by Karl Hebenstreit is a standout resource that bridges the gap for new and experienced managers alike. Hebenstreit, a seasoned organizational psychologist, understands that simply promoting high performers doesn’t equip them for leadership’s communication and alignment challenges. The book’s foundation is deceptively simple: nothing derails teams faster than unspoken or assumed expectations. Yet, many organizations—even the best-intentioned—default to the “Golden Rule” without pausing to clarify what’s really needed.
Hebenstreit takes readers through the strategic and practical elements of expectation setting. He offers more than just management theory: included are one-on-one frameworks, performance management tools, and communication checklists ready to be implemented right away. Particularly useful is the “Explicit Expectations Engagement and Alignment Guide.” This isn’t a static form, but a living document, encouraging continual dialogue between leaders and team members. By co-creating clarity on roles, goals, communication styles, and support needs, teams sidestep the misunderstandings and misalignments that sap productivity and morale.
The book doesn’t just dwell on the basics. It delves into the psychology behind management missteps, highlighting how personal biases can lead managers astray. Hebenstreit’s insights on moving from “implicit” to “explicit”—from assumption to agreement—are immediately actionable. What makes this book unique is its focus on ongoing partnership. Managers and their reports are treated as co-creators in the success of the work, rather than as players in a directive game. For HR professionals, business leaders, or startup founders, this book is a comprehensive, empathetic, and genuinely useful toolkit that will shape both culture and results for years to come.
You can find this book on Amazon here.
Karl will be my guest on Your Partner In Success Radio on October 20, 2025. Stay tuned!