I want to share with you a very useful tool that a newly hired HR director coordinated the implementation of a few years back.
As we all know, managers face a constant balancing act. Change never stops for them.
New systems, new org structures, new platforms, there is always something new coming their way. And regardless of the global or local initiative, managers are expected to lead their teams confidently through it all.
Add to that the frequent HR-related surprises such as performance issues, resignations, hiring requests, etc. At some point, every manager needs support from HR.

A while ago, when I was working for a foreign-owned retail company, the newly hired HR Director noticed that our managers often didn’t know who in HR to consult or when. His solution was simple but brilliant: the Manager’s Guide.
To create this guide, each HR team filled out a template created by the HR managers explaining what they handled, when to contact them, and who the key person was. It mapped the entire employee journey, from hiring to retirement, and gave managers the clarity they needed to act quickly and confidently.
Having answers readily available allows managers to save time, foster trust within their teams, and collaborate more effectively with HR by identifying issues and reaching the right contacts without delay.

If your company doesn’t have something like this, it’s really worth your time to ask your HR team to see if they can put something like this together to support you. It’s one of the most effective tools a company can provide to support your leadership.
What about you?

Is there a tool or practice you rely on as a manager that you recommend all companies provide or promote for their leadership teams?
If you’re a leader or manager looking to strengthen your communication, confidence, and ability to lead through change, visit Communication Makeover. I coach and train leaders just like you to succeed!