CIPD

Podcast 197: Are people managers doing too much, or not enough?

Jul 4, 2023

Zofia Bajorek, a Research Fellow at the Institute of Employment Studies, and Wayne Clarke, Founding Partner of a management initiative, delve into the evolving responsibilities of people managers. They discuss the risks of overwhelming management expectations and the urgent need for support and training in the hybrid work landscape. The importance of empathetic communication, regular one-on-ones, and prioritizing employee well-being emerge as key strategies to enhance productivity and engagement. They also grapple with how AI is reshaping managerial roles and responsibilities.

30:49

Creator website

Episode guests

Wayne Clarke

Zofia Bajorek

AI Summary

Highlights

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The shift of people management responsibilities to frontline managers necessitates reevaluation of support structures and competencies for effective management.

Regular one-on-one meetings between managers and team members cultivate engagement and empathy, enhancing overall productivity and employee well-being.

Deep dives

The Burden of Modern Management

Today’s line managers are tasked with a multitude of responsibilities, which often can lead to stress and burnout. They must navigate hybrid work environments, mentor team members, enforce company policies, and boost productivity—all while maintaining team morale. Interestingly, in some organizations, potential managers may actually choose not to pursue leadership roles due to the perceived stress versus the limited financial incentives. This creates a challenge for organizations that struggle to fill management positions as they need to attract individuals who can form effective, trusting relationships with established teams.

Empowerment Requires Ability, Motivation, and Opportunity

01:09

Bad Management Breeds Poor Productivity

01:31

Listen and Lead: The Key to Effective Management

00:44

Intro

2min

Navigating Modern Management Challenges

16min

Enhancing Productivity Through One-on-Ones

4min

The Evolving Role of Line Managers in a Hybrid World

4min

Prioritizing Human Connection in Management

2min

Navigating Pressures in People Management

3min

Have we over-expanded the remit of people managers? As the world and the workplace have become increasingly complex, management requirements and expectations are expanding exponentially. So, what steps can People Professionals take to support managers, to relieve the risk of being overwhelmed, and equip them with the competencies and behaviours to thrive? Join Nigel Cassidy and this month’s guests: Zofia Bajorek, Research Fellow at Institute of Employment Studies; Wayne Clarke, Founding Partner and Leadership and Management Expert at Global Growth Institute and Amanda Arrowsmith, People and Transformation Director at CIPD, as we discuss how people professionals can best support managers to tackle the demands of a new era of people management.

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