Let’s face it, managing people is a bit like trying to get a group of mates to decide on a takeaway – everyone’s got an opinion, and sometimes it gets a bit lively! But brilliant people management is what sets good workplaces apart from great ones. Whether you’re managing your first team or you’ve been at it for years, there’s always something new to learn. Here’s a down-to-earth, British guide to people management that actually works in the real world.
Start with Trust and Openness
Building trust is the bedrock of any successful team. If your team knows you’re honest and open, they’ll be much more likely to come to you with ideas, concerns or even just a bit of banter. Show you’re listening by actually acting on their feedback. Try a regular team catch-up (with tea, of course) where everyone can share updates and concerns. Remember, trust is built in the small moments – keeping promises, giving credit, and having people’s backs when things get tricky.
Master the Art of Feedback
Feedback isn’t just about annual reviews. The best managers give little doses of feedback, both positive and constructive, every day. Be specific – instead of saying, good job, say, I loved the way you handled that client call, you really turned it around. When giving constructive feedback, focus on actions, not personalities. And always leave space for your team member to share their side. Feedback is a two-way street, so be ready to take it as well as give it.
Delegate Smartly and Empower Your Team
One of the biggest mistakes managers make is trying to do everything themselves. Delegation is about trust, not dumping. Match tasks to people’s strengths and give clear instructions, but don’t micromanage. Let people own their work and make decisions – it boosts confidence and motivation. If something doesn’t go perfectly, don’t swoop in to fix it straight away. Instead, coach your team through finding a solution. You’ll be surprised how much they can do if you let them.
Keep Communication Clear and Human
Ever played Chinese whispers at school? That’s what poor communication feels like at work. Make sure your team always knows what’s expected, what’s changing, and why. Ditch the jargon and speak like a real person. Use a mix of emails, quick chats and regular meetings to keep everyone in the loop. And don’t forget to listen – sometimes the best ideas come from the quietest voices.
Celebrate Success (and Learn from Wobbles)
Don’t wait for the big wins to celebrate. Shout about the small victories and make sure your team feels appreciated. A quick thank you or shout-out in a team meeting goes a long way. When things go wrong (because let’s be honest, they will), treat them as learning opportunities, not disasters. Talk openly about what happened, what you could do differently next time, and move on. Teams that feel safe to fail will be braver and more creative.
Look After Your Own Development
Great managers never stop learning. Whether it’s picking up a new skill, reading up on people management trends or even having a mentor, invest in yourself. The better you get, the better your team does. And if you make mistakes, own them and show your team that learning is for everyone.
Ready to Take Your People Management Skills to the Next Level?
If you want to build trust, inspire your team, and create a happier, more productive workplace, our People Management Skills Training Course gives you everything you need – practical tools, real-world examples, and a fun, friendly approach. We deliver our courses online, so you can join from anywhere in the UK. Find out more and book your place here.
