Challenges of people management: from Problem to Opportunity

From resolving conflicts to providing critical feedback, the responsibilities of a people manager can sometimes feel daunting. These challenges are unavoidable and it’s crucial to remember that they always present an opportunity for development and growth. Here are a few commonly perceived unpleasant aspects of people management and some strategies to overcome them.

Conflict Resolution

Conflicts are an inevitable part of any workplace and resolving them can be stressful and uncomfortable. To tackle this, improve your conflict resolution skills by understanding different conflict styles and adopting a solution-oriented approach. It’s crucial to foster a culture of open communication and respect within your team.

Scenario: Two of your team members are in disagreement over the approach to a project. This has escalated to the point where their discord is affecting team harmony and project progress.

Overcoming strategy: Step in and arrange a meeting with both team members. Listen to each party’s perspective and encourage an open but respectful communication. Employ a solution-oriented approach to assist them in arriving at a compromise or a new approach that integrates both of their views.

Dealing with underperforming team members

Addressing underperformance can be tough. In doing so, focus on open dialogue, empathy, and action-oriented solutions. It’s equally important to provide the appropriate resources and support to help the individual improve.

Scenario: One of your team members has been delivering subpar work for several weeks.

Overcoming strategy: Schedule a private discussion with the team member. The conversation must be approached with empathy and genuine concern for their well-being. There might be personal or professional obstacles impacting the quality of their work so be sure to ask probing questions. Offer the necessary support (resources, mentorship, etc.) but also set clear, achievable goals to get them back on track.

Making tough decisions

From layoffs to disciplinary action, this represents one of the most challenging aspects of being a manager. When faced with tough decisions, it is essential to be fair, transparent, and compassionate.

Scenario: One of your team members, although skilled and experienced, has a negative attitude that is starting to affect team morale.

Overcoming strategy: Arrange a private meeting with your team member before it further impacts the team. The conversation must start by acknowledging their skills and contributions and only then should you discuss your observations about their behaviour, providing specific examples and explaining how this is impacting the team. The team member should be encouraged to express their feelings and concerns. Depending on their response, you might need to set-up a personal development plan or, in extreme cases, consider whether their continued presence in the team is beneficial. Throughout this conversation, the manager must be transparent and fair.

Balancing team needs with organizational goals/limitations

At times, balancing the needs and aspirations of your teams with the overall goals or limitations of your organization can be complex. To strike the right balance, a people manager must resort to effective communication, negotiation skills, empathy and, sometimes, creativity.

Scenario: Several team members are highly motivated and wish to pursue advanced training to enhance their skills but there is no budget for such training programs.

Overcoming strategy: Discuss the situation openly, explaining budget constraints while praising their motivation for growth. Look for cost-effective alternative solutions such as online courses or internal mentorship opportunities.

People management is an intricate landscape. Challenges encountered should not be seen as stumbling blocks, but rather as a stepping stone. Each of these represent an opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and become a better version of your previous self.