Managing People

"Human resources" is a business term that can distance a manager from the reality that these resources are actually people. Human Resource Management is essentially the art of managing people. 

People are the greatest resource that any business has at its disposal and if managed well can be the businesses greatest asset.

However people are an expensive resource and for most managers, managing people is a challenge that requires skill and a significant investment of time.

Effective people management is achieved by:
1. Recruiting the best people possible for the role.
2. Developing your people through a systematic approach to performance development.
3. Providing feedback, acknowledging and rewarding performance.
4. Providing the training and education required to give your people the skills they need.
5. Creating a vibrant and learning culture.
6. Setting a clear direction for the business based on a strategic plan.
7. Developing good systems and having clear procedures.

The role of a practice manager is to create an environment that motivates and enables employees to do their work. Cole, K. 2005 states that "to succeed as a manager, you must know how to bring out the best in people."  The Art of Managing People involves leadership, good people skills and a commitment to implementing performance development systems.