The one thing my business professor said was the best rule for dealing with people was MBWA. "Management By Walking Around." When people are used to seeing you around and just shooting the sh## with people, they are more likely to talk to you and let you know what is going on. They won't feel so much pressure that "the boss" is checking up on them, and you'll be more in the know if they are having trouble getting anything done.
Oh, and 5 Minute manager.
