People Management in a Digital Age: Milpark MBA Insights

The Changing Face of People Management

The shift towards remote and hybrid working models has introduced new challenges and complexities in people management. "There is no one-size-fits-all anymore," explains Grundling.

"You need to cater to diverse employee preferences. Some employees thrive in an office setting, while others prefer working from home. Developing empathy and understanding differing needs can be critical to maintain productivity and engagement in a virtual world.”

Grundling believes the “new way of work” is here to stay. “We’re finding ourselves on the tip of the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) with humans, technology and machines collaborating at unprecedented levels. Successful leaders in people management need to be digitally fluent while remaining deeply attuned to their people’s needs."

The Multi-Generational Workforce

Today’s workplace often features a dynamic mix of generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. “Each generation brings distinct attitudes to work and technology, which can lead to misconceptions and conflict,” shares Grundling.

“In the past, the focus was on tasks, targets and performance – approaches that worked well with Baby Boomers and Gen X but don’t work with younger generations who seek to add value and be part of broader solutions.”

“Effective, agile, human-centred leadership can help bridge these gaps, creating environments where employees of all ages can connect, collaborate and help one another become more productive and effective.”

Navigating Talent Management in the Digital Era

Talent management has also evolved dramatically; “In today’s fast-paced world, it’s critical to regularly reassess your talent strategy to ensure alignment with business objectives. You need the right people with the right skills in the right place at the right time.”

This includes mastering new recruitment techniques; “Online interviews present new challenges. It’s increasingly difficult to assess skills accurately. A candidate may submit a polished presentation, yet lack the actual skills required for the job.”

Similarly, the rise of digital learning platforms has transformed people management and professional development, shifting from traditional, face-to-face methods to more dynamic, self-directed learning. Employees are encouraged to take charge of their career development and ensure they remain valuable assets in the job market.”

Building Healthy, Inclusive Work Environments

A significant aspect of modern people management is the focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). "Leaders must be intentional about creating inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, feels valued and respected," explains Grundling.

"It’s about more than just hiring for diversity; it’s about cultivating an organisational culture that supports equity and inclusion at every level. Inclusive leadership leads to more engaged teams and better business outcomes."

Employee health and wellness have become a bigger part of the people value chain, shifting from traditional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) to a growing focus on overall wellness and mental health. "It's no longer just about performance and results.

A healthy workforce is more productive, focused and innovative. It requires creating environments where employees feel safe, supported and empowered."

"Understanding and leveraging people data to inform business decisions is becoming increasingly important," Grundling notes. "For example, if you discover that a significant percentage of absenteeism is tied to mental health issues, you can tackle the root causes."

"Effective people management requires strategic leadership. The leaders of the future need to adopt a more holistic approach to managing people, balancing the demands of digital transformation with the need for human connection, while keeping an eye on the purpose and strategic goals of the organisation."

Final Thoughts: Leading with Purpose and Vision

As the workplace continues to evolve, Milpark remains committed to developing global, human-centred leaders. Grundling is inspired by the transformation she sees. “Initially many students underestimate the value of this module. By the end, they recognise people management is one of the most critical aspects of their MBA journey.”

Are you ready to stand up as a strategic leader who can effectively manage diverse teams in a digital world? Discover how our MBA program can equip you with the necessary skills and insights. Explore our MBA program here or visit the Milpark Education website and find a program tailored to the needs of the modern digital age.

Connect with Jean Grundling on LinkedIn.