Being a people manager in the UK can be both brilliant and a bit bonkers at times. You're juggling tasks, targets, and a team of unique personalities, all while trying to keep everyone happy and heading in the right direction. But here's the good news: people management isn't about being perfect, it's about building trust, making the right calls when it counts, and getting the best out of your team. Whether you're brand new to managing people or just want to polish up your approach, these real-world tips will help you lead with confidence and a smile.
Know Your People (Beyond Their Job Titles)
People management is all about people - the clue's in the name! Get to know your team as individuals, not just job descriptions. Find out what motivates them, what they enjoy, and what they find challenging. A quick chat over a cuppa, a mini survey, or regular one-to-ones can open up brilliant insights. Remember birthdays, celebrate wins, and show genuine interest. When your team feels seen and heard, they're far more likely to go the extra mile.
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Set Clear Expectations (And Stick to Them)
Ever felt confused about what's expected at work? Your team will have too if things aren't clear. Spell out what good looks like, agree goals together, and keep things practical. Use simple checklists or shared documents so everyone knows where they stand. Don't move the goalposts without warning. If something changes, explain why and give people a chance to adapt. Consistency builds trust and helps reduce confusion, making it easier for everyone to do their best work.
Give Feedback Like a Pro (It's Not as Scary as It Sounds)
Feedback shouldn't be saved up for an annual review or only given when things go wrong. Little and often beats big and scary every time. Start with what's going well, then move onto anything that needs a tweak. Be specific - instead of saying 'do better,' try 'let's look at how you handled that customer call and see what could work even better next time.' And don't forget to ask for feedback too. Your team will respect you more if they know you're open to learning and improving yourself.
Support Growth and Development (Even on a Budget)
Not everyone wants to climb the corporate ladder, but everyone likes to feel they're learning something new. Look for small ways to help your team develop. It could be shadowing a colleague, swapping tasks for a day, or attending a free webinar. Recognise strengths and encourage people to build on them. When people see you care about their future, they're more engaged and motivated - and they're less likely to head for the exit when a new opportunity pops up elsewhere.
Handle the Tough Stuff with Confidence (But Stay Human)
Managing people isn't always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes you'll need to have tricky conversations about performance, behaviour, or change. Stay calm, stick to the facts, and focus on finding solutions together. Listen as much as you talk, and be honest if you don't have all the answers. Remember, it's okay to show empathy and admit when something's tough. People appreciate managers who are fair, approachable, and real.
Keep the Team Spirit Alive
Teams that laugh together, win together. Create moments for fun, whether it's a Friday quiz, a team lunch, or celebrating a quirky national day (anyone for National Biscuit Day?). These small touches build bonds, break down barriers, and make work a place people actually want to be. Mix up meetings with icebreakers, celebrate achievements big and small, and encourage team members to support each other. When people feel part of something special, they'll give their best.
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