How line managers can evolve to thrive in today’s workplace

Written by Amy Billings from &Evolve 

In a rapidly changing business landscape, many senior leaders are now becoming more involved in operational challenges and short-term planning.

With executives stepping deeper into the details, the role of line managers is also shifting. Instead of being squeezed between top leadership and their teams, managers have an opportunity to redefine their value.

So how can leaders at this level adapt to best serve the business, and support their teams?

By becoming a facilitator, rather than a manager of things. Let’s explore some practical ways line managers can evolve to stay effective and impactful.

1 Shift from “Doing” to “Enabling”

Traditional management often focused on overseeing tasks and ensuring processes were followed.

Today, however, line managers are at their best when they enable others to succeed. Think of yourself as the connector who removes obstacles, shares clarity, and makes it easier for your team to perform at their best.

How to do it:

• Encourage autonomy by showing trust in your team’s expertise.

• Step in as a problem-solver when barriers arise, not as a micromanager.

• Facilitate cross-team collaboration to strengthen outcomes.

2 Focus on productivity through people

Sustainable productivity isn’t just about efficiency tools; it’s about creating the right environment for people to thrive. Managers who balance task delivery with human needs are the ones who achieve consistent results.

How to do it:

• Check in regularly, not only about work progress but also about well-being.

• Spot early signs of burnout and redistribute workloads where needed.

• Celebrate achievements visibly so that effort is recognised.

3 Develop a coaching mindset

Employees today want more than direction; they want growth and guidance.

Line managers can be invaluable when they adopt a coaching approach. Asking powerful questions, listening actively, and helping people find their own solutions, is a surefire way to empower and upskill people.

How to do it:

• Replace “telling” with “asking” to spark ownership.

• Offer feedback that highlights strengths just as much as gaps.

• Encourage career conversations to show you care about long-term success.

4 Stay agile and adaptive

The business world is uncertain and plans often need to change quickly. Managers who can stay flexible, rather than rigid, earn the trust of those around them during turbulent times.

How to do it:

• Keep your team updated with honest, timely communication.

• Reassure people that change is natural, and frame it as an opportunity.

• Adjust priorities together, rather than pushing down new goals unilaterally.

5 Lead with emotional intelligence

Above all, effective leaders today are those who bring empathy, awareness, and authenticity to their role. Supporting people through uncertainty requires not only technical skills but also genuine humanity.

How to do it:

• Practice active listening without rushing to respond.

• Show vulnerability. It creates a culture where others feel safe to be open.

• Be fair and consistent, building a foundation of trust.

The role of the line manager isn’t disappearing, it’s transforming. By moving from controllers of processes to facilitators of people, managers can become indispensable bridges between strategy and delivery.

The real measure of their success isn’t how much they personally achieve, but how effectively they enable others to succeed.