Managing people is one of the most rewarding challenges in the workplace, but let’s be honest, it can often feel more like herding cats than leading a team. Whether you’re new to management or just looking to up your game, people management is all about helping others shine, building trust, and keeping things running smoothly (without losing your sense of humour). In this post, we’ll explore practical, down-to-earth tips to help you unlock your team’s full potential, keep them motivated, and create a positive, productive environment.
Building Trust and Positive Relationships
Trust is the secret ingredient in every high-performing team. It’s not about fancy job titles or strict rules, but about being open, honest, and approachable. Get to know your team, not just what they do at work but what makes them tick as people. Ask about their interests, listen to their stories and show genuine interest. When your team knows you care, they’ll be more likely to trust you, share ideas and even admit when something’s gone a bit pear-shaped.
And remember, trust goes both ways. Give your team the benefit of the doubt, let them make decisions and learn from their mistakes (without hovering over their shoulder). This builds confidence, loyalty, and a team that works with you, not just for you.
Effective Feedback That Motivates
Let’s face it, giving feedback can feel awkward, but it’s one of the fastest ways to help your team grow. The trick is to keep it regular, specific, and balanced. Don’t wait for the annual appraisal to say something positive—catch your team doing things right and let them know straight away. A simple “Great job on that report, it really made things clear” can go a long way.
When something needs improvement, be honest but supportive. Focus on the behaviour, not the person, and offer help to get things back on track. For example, instead of “You’re always late with deadlines,” try “I’ve noticed the last couple of deadlines have slipped—how can we make things easier for next time?” This keeps things friendly and solution-focused.
Empowerment Over Micromanagement
No one likes to be micromanaged. Give your team clear goals, then trust them to get the job done their way. Offer guidance and support, but step back and let them take ownership. You’ll be amazed at what people can do when given the chance to shine.
Empowerment doesn’t mean leaving people to sink or swim. Check in regularly, offer constructive feedback, and celebrate progress. If someone is struggling, work together to find solutions rather than taking over. This not only builds skills and confidence but frees up your time for bigger-picture thinking.
Celebrating Success (Big and Small)
Recognition is a powerful motivator. Celebrate wins, big and small, and share successes across the team. This doesn’t have to mean grand gestures—a quick shout-out in a meeting, a thank-you email, or a fun team lunch can do wonders for morale. Make it genuine and tailored to the individual. Some people love the spotlight, while others prefer a quiet word of thanks.
Encourage your team to recognise each other’s achievements too. Peer-to-peer praise can build a supportive, collaborative atmosphere and help everyone feel valued.
Investing in Your Own Growth
Great managers never stop learning. Take time to reflect on your own approach—what’s working well, and what could be better? Seek feedback from your team and your own manager. Don’t be afraid to try new things, admit when you don’t have all the answers, and learn from mistakes. The more you invest in your own development, the more you’ll inspire your team to do the same.
Consider joining a training course or professional group, reading the latest thinking on leadership, or working with a mentor. Being open to learning sets a great example and keeps you ahead of the curve.
Communication: The Heartbeat of Management
Clear, honest communication is the glue that holds teams together. Make sure your team knows what’s expected, why changes are happening, and how their work fits into the bigger picture. Keep it two-way—encourage questions, listen to concerns, and create a safe space for people to speak up.
Be approachable and available (even virtually). Regular team catch-ups, one-to-ones, and even informal chats over coffee can help keep everyone connected and engaged.
Conclusion: Ready to Lead With Confidence?
People management is a journey, not a destination. By building trust, giving effective feedback, empowering your team, celebrating success, investing in your own growth, and communicating openly, you’ll create a team that’s motivated, productive, and happy to come to work every day. Ready to unlock your full potential as a people manager? Our People Management Skills Training Course is packed with practical tools, real-world scenarios, and support to help you thrive. Find out more and book your place here.
