How to Manage Your Boss: Insights from The Breakthrough Co
Manage your boss so you can be seen and supported in your career. It's a key management skill that you can learn
People skills can be learned, but they're not about knowledge; instead, you have to learn self-awareness and empathy from within, not from outside sources.
People skills are the hardest and most important part to learn about leadership. It does not require hard knowledge; instead, self-awareness and empathy is developed internally, not externally.
Why People Skills Matter More
Research shows that today's top team members want to feel valued and appreciated. A good people manager can improve morale, productivity, and performance more than a technical manager. Managers with strong 'soft' skills know how to recognize and appreciate each team member's strengths. This builds a united and motivated team.
People vs. Technical Skills
Some still think technical skills are more important than people skills. Technical skills are specific and can be learned, like coding or using software. People skills, however, require understanding and managing social interactions between complex humans in real time. While technical skills are important for certain tasks, leadership and long-term success need people skills to handle complex aspects of human beings.
Empathy: The Foundation of People Skills
Good people skills need empathy. Empathy builds trust by understanding and sharing others' feelings. Empathetic leaders can address team members' issues and needs effectively.
Active listening, open-mindedness, and genuine curiosity about others' experiences promote empathy. Leaders can create an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued by building empathy.
Leadership Styles for Different Personalities
Different people need different management styles. Effective leaders must understand and treat people as they want to be treated.
A driven manager may not be the best coach for a collaborative person. By adapting your leadership style to your team member's traits, you can help them reach their potential and create a happier, more productive workplace.
Practical Tips for Building People Skills
Understand yourself. Observe your habits and personality at work.
Seek feedback and accept it.
Have conversations to understand how others see the world. Don't dismiss differences or only focus on similarities.