This booklet is intended to assist midlevel health care managers in assessing and improving their health care management skills. The first chapter uses the story of one health care manager's recognition of his own weaknesses and subsequent self-improvement to illustrate the qualities and skills that make a good manager. The second chapter, which deals with the functions of a manager, covers deciding what to do and how to do it, delegating tasks and supervising, evaluating and monitoring program performance, and organizing continuing education for oneself and others. The third chapter helps managers analyze their present situation, set priorities, establish long- and short-term goals, prepare a plan of action, develop working procedures and policies, select staff, prepare a budget and reporting system, delegate tasks, develop an appropriate style of leadership, motivate and evaluate staff, evaluate program performance, take corrective action, keep up with new ideas through continuing education, set an example for and teach others, and involve staff in continuing education. The fourth chapter suggests ways of obtaining feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and users. The final chapter includes separate self-assessment instruments for evaluating skills in the areas of providing services, managing personnel, providing leadership, maintaining community relationships, and managing financial resources. (MN)