The Manager Identity Shift Nobody Warns New Managers About

This article explores the identity shift identity from employee to manager that happens when someone moves from being an individual contributor into a management role, why so many managers remain stuck in their old way of working, and what it actually means to create value as a manager rather than simply deliver it yourself. Key … Read more

How to Stop Avoiding Difficult Conversations (And Why It’s Costing You)

By Nicola Richardson, Founder of The People Mentor. The People Mentor partners with small employers, managers, and leaders to develop the confidence and practical skills needed to navigate difficult conversations and create greater accountability within their teams. This article is for anyone who recognises the pattern of avoiding difficult conversations at work, whether that is … Read more

What Does It Take to Be a Determined Leader?

Written by Nicola Richardson, Founder of The People Mentor. The People Mentor supports small businesses, managers, and leaders in navigating challenging conversations, building accountability, and leading with confidence through practical, straightforward guidance. This article is for managers who want to build real determination in leadership, and for business owners who are trying to spot it, … Read more

How to Manage Underperformance Without Losing the Employee

Written by Nicola Richardson, Founder of The People Mentor. The People Mentor helps small employers, managers and leaders handle difficult conversations, strengthen accountability and lead calmly for business results that matter. This article is for managers dealing with an underperforming employee right now, and for the SME owners and HR leads trying to put the … Read more

Why Most Managers Get Communication Wrong And how to tackle that

Written by Nicola Richardson, Founder of The People Mentor. The People Mentor helps small employers, managers and leaders handle difficult conversations, strengthen accountability and lead with calm, practical insights and confidence. Manager communication skills are at the heart of every high-performing team — and most managers were never properly taught them. This article looks at … Read more