My fascination with various management styles began recently.  As I studied further, I realized the importance of management/mangers to the company; to profitability, employee retention, ...
Managers define the work environment, by setting expectations, getting to know employees, determining the amount of trust put in employees and the amount of investment into each employee.  Employees value this leadership so much, that they can overlook many other sought-after job factors (money, child care, insurance, vacation,...)

I am simply writing this down for my own benefit..but if it helps others great.

Books I have appreciated:  Good to Great, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The 8th Habit, The Power of Habits,

II.  Looking for a new job.  Finding often companies do not take time to describe position accurately, yet detailed description.  Makes it very challenging when unsure what is REALLY expected in job.  Earnings?  Tell us what you made in last position...what does this have to do with THIS position.  Tell ME what is the pay for this position.  Office space is rarely shown in interview...since in a conference room.  Yet, the office could be windowless, close quarters, three people to a work area, sales persons within ear shot, constant chatter, "white noise" or music could be piped in, ...many unbearable situations could arise that even if you wanted to do the job , the environment would make it near impossible.  I have started at companies where, on my first day, the desk was a blank slate and the manager was too busy to help/train.  I got to know people wandering around looking for the various supply rooms, as there were three.  BUT, how welcome do you imagine that made me feel?

Accurate job descriptions, reviews, let people know how they are doing.  More and more offices do not have an office directory.  How do I know who to go to with questions?  Where is their desk located?  Better yet...are they virtual?  How can I be the best worker possible without information.

How am I doing?  Are my opinions valued?  Am I included in Meetings?  Do I know the Mission of the Company?  Does it match the leaderships behavior?  Does the office work as a team, or is there a tense feeling of competition.  Fine to beat your own record, not good to be in competition with co-workers. Very important to have a progress report, at least every 3 to 6 months to make sure I have not veered off course.  Is there room for growth within the company?  (That can be personal, spiritual, ...)

If my manager can keep me posted on what is expected of me and allows me all the equipment, tools, training, and whatever I need to get the work accomplished, I am in a good place.  If you are a manager, this is your area of emphasis to keep employees on track and motivated through recognition, concern,and development.