Being a manager in today’s workplace can feel a bit like spinning plates. You’re juggling people, processes, policies, and your own workload, all while trying to keep your team happy and productive. One of the biggest challenges? Navigating HR responsibilities with confidence, even if you’re not an HR expert. But don’t worry! With a few practical tips and some friendly advice, you can breeze through people management and make your workplace a better place for everyone.
Understand the Basics: HR Isn’t Just Red Tape
Let’s face it, HR sometimes gets a bad rap as the department that loves paperwork or says no to everything fun. But in reality, HR is about looking after your people and helping them do their best work. As a manager, your job is to understand the basics: things like fair recruitment, equal opportunities, absence management, and giving feedback. Even if you’re not an HR pro, knowing the essentials means you’ll avoid common pitfalls and help your team thrive. Take time to brush up on your organisation’s policies, and don’t be afraid to ask HR for advice when you’re unsure. It’s better to ask than guess!
Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Good communication is at the heart of all great management, and it’s especially important when it comes to HR matters. Whether you’re sharing updates about holidays, explaining procedures for reporting absence, or talking through performance appraisals, clarity is key. Use plain language, avoid jargon, and check for understanding. Encourage your team to ask questions. When people know what’s expected, they’re much less likely to make mistakes, and you’ll spend less time sorting out misunderstandings.
Deal with Absence and Performance Proactively
Absence and performance issues can be tricky, but leaving them to fester never ends well. If someone is off sick, check in with them in a supportive way and keep records up to date. Don’t just wait for problems to escalate – regular one-to-ones give you the chance to spot concerns early and offer help before things get out of hand. When it comes to performance, honest conversations work wonders. Focus on what’s going well, where there’s room to grow, and create an action plan together. Remember, you’re there to support, not just criticise.
Keep Documentation Simple (and Up to Date)
Paperwork might not be the most thrilling part of management, but it really does matter. Keeping accurate records of meetings, absences, performance reviews, and informal chats can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. It’s not about writing a novel – just jot down the key points, dates, and actions agreed. Use templates if your company provides them, and store everything securely. This protects you and your team if there’s ever a misunderstanding or dispute. Plus, you’ll always know where you stand.
Know When to Ask for Help
No one expects you to know every HR rule inside out. HR teams are there to help, not catch you out! If you’re facing a tricky situation – maybe a grievance, a complicated absence, or a sensitive performance issue – reach out for advice. Most HR departments would much rather support you early on than fix a bigger problem later. You’ll learn a lot along the way, and your team will appreciate your fairness and confidence.
Make HR Part of Your Everyday Leadership
The best managers don’t think of HR as something separate from their job – they weave people management into everything they do. Celebrate achievements, give feedback (not just at appraisal time!), handle issues promptly, and keep your door open. By making HR part of your everyday approach, you’ll build trust, reduce problems, and create a happier workplace. And remember, it’s okay to have fun along the way – a team that laughs together, works better together!
Ready for More? Take Your HR Skills to the Next Level
If you’d like to feel truly confident in all things HR, check out our HR for Managers Training Course. Whether you’re new to management or want a refresher, you’ll get practical tools and expert tips, all delivered in our signature fun and engaging style. Find out more here and start making people management easy and enjoyable!
