New Research on How the Best Managers Shape Employees' Careers.

The article focuses on new research demonstrating that the most effective managers shape employees' long-term careers by matching them to roles where they fit best, rather than solely motivating or controlling them. Analyzing data from 200,000 employees and 30,000 managers in a multinational firm, the study identifies "high-flyer" managers—those promoted early into middle management—who significantly increase workers' lateral mobility, wages, and productivity, with benefits persisting even after employees leave their teams. These managers spend more time mentoring and facilitating job exploration, helping uncover hidden talents and fostering internal labor market fluidity. The findings suggest that firms can enhance performance and employee development by prioritizing internal talent matching, encouraging managerial rotations, and rewarding managers for effective job allocation.