People managers are an indispensable link between an organisation’s top management and its employees. However, their impact is affected by several moderating factors, such as leadership style, management skills and organisational support. This evidence review draws together the best available evidence to explore why people managers are important, what a good people manager looks like, and how to develop effective people managers. 

As organisations navigate issues such as hybrid working and recruitment it’s important to realise that people managers not only need to manage their teams’ day-to-day tasks and responsibilities, they also need to nurture their people, implement corporate strategies and act as change agents. 

Use the practice summary to understand the main insights and practical recommendations for action.

See the scientific summary for our methodology and technical information on the research and study references.

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