Skip navigation

Economics for managers: Navigating business + industry trends

Managers need a solid grasp of economics to understand the numbers driving their business.

A man is reviewing some financial reports at his laptop with his phone in his hand. We can only see the man from the shoulders down.A man is reviewing some financial reports at his laptop with his phone in his hand. We can only see the man from the shoulders down.

Table of contents

Insights from Ellen Raim, Founder of People MatterWe focus more on solving than preventing People problems.

Managers must have a solid grasp of economics to make informed decisions, understand the numbers driving their business and stay ahead of industry trends. Here’s a look at why:

The intersection of economics + decision-making

Economics knowledge equips managers with the analytical skills to evaluate market conditions, assess risks and forecast economic trends. By understanding the financial principles that underpin their business operations, managers can navigate uncertainties with greater confidence and precision.

Managers need to understand the numbers

Every manager benefits from an understanding of their company’s numbers. 

Managers should be able to interpret financial statements to gauge the business's health, identify areas for improvement and measure the impact of strategic decisions. Managers who understand economics can see the bigger picture, connecting financial outcomes with broader economic indicators.

Keeping pace with industry trends

Staying abreast of industry trends is paramount in an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting market dynamics.

Economics provides managers with the lens to view trends as isolated events and as parts of a larger economic framework. An economic perspective is crucial for anticipating changes, adapting strategies and ensuring the business remains competitive.

The strategic advantage of economics in manager training

Integrating economics into manager training offers a strategic advantage.

Economics content within manager training programs prepares leaders to think critically, act strategically and lead with an informed perspective. Managers well-versed in economics are better equipped to contribute to their organization's growth, sustainability and competitive edge.

As the business world evolves, the demand for managers who can navigate complexities with economic insight will grow. Investing in manager training that incorporates economics is essential for today's and tomorrow's leaders.

Learn live. Adapt faster.

Latest resources

Learn more about creating a culture of learning throughout our resources below.

How to improve time to value (TTV) in skill development
Electives team
 
Apr 14, 2025

How to improve time to value (TTV) in skill development

In the skills economy, value is defined by what people can do—not what’s on their resume. Here’s how organizations and employees can adapt and grow.
Learning best practices
The skills your team needs to navigate change
Electives team
 
Apr 9, 2025

The skills your team needs to navigate change

In a VUCA world, your team needs more than technical skills. Build adaptability, communication and problem-solving to help employees lead through change.
Innovation + productivity
Public speaking: A high-impact skill for modern leaders
Electives team
 
Apr 8, 2025

Public speaking: A high-impact skill for modern leaders

Public speaking helps employees lead more effectively, share ideas clearly and communicate with confidence across the business.
Communication skills
Targeted training vs. broad training investments: How to choose what works
Electives team
 
Apr 3, 2025

Targeted training vs. broad training investments: How to choose what works

Not sure whether to invest in targeted or company-wide training? Here's how to choose the approach that actually supports your goals and gets results.
Learning best practices
How to measure L&D effectiveness and get leadership on board
Electives team
 
Apr 2, 2025

How to measure L&D effectiveness and get leadership on board

With the right approach, you can connect learning to real business outcomes—and get leadership to actually care about it.
Learning best practices
10 creative ways to boost attendance for your next training
Electives team
 
Apr 1, 2025

10 creative ways to boost attendance for your next training

Boost sign-ups and make your next virtual training feel like something worth showing up for.
Learning best practices

View all posts

ENJOYABLE. EASY. EFFECTIVE.

Learning that works.

With live learning + AI simulations, Electives is a learning platform that makes it easy to design, execute and measure effectiveness.

Request a demo

Request a demo

Learn more

Learn more