Rethinking Leadership: How to Empower Managers to Actually Succeed

As People leaders, we talk endlessly about team culture, engagement, and performance. But we tend to ignore the one relationship that influences all three: the connection between a manager and their team.

Managers account for over 70% of the variance in team engagement, yet most aren’t given the tools they need to lead effectively. They’re expected to motivate, coach, and retain employees, often without training, clarity, or support.

In this thought-provoking panel discussion with HR leaders, executives, and Bonusly customers, we explore the role of manager-employee relationships—and what it really takes to support them in today’s world of work.

We dig into:‍

• Why strong manager-employee relationships are the foundation of team performance and culture
• Where traditional leadership training misses the mark—and what to do instead
• How regular recognition and meaningful feedback strengthen trust, clarity, and connection
• Tactical strategies to support managers and help them lead with empathy and intention