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.

Use World Communication Week to sharpen how your teams really talk
Electives team
 
Oct 15, 2025

Use World Communication Week to sharpen how your teams really talk

Use World Communication Week (Nov 1–7) to improve team communication, boost clarity and build trust—without adding extra work for your People team.
Communication skills
Structured learning or learning on the job? You need both.
Electives team
 
Oct 14, 2025

Structured learning or learning on the job? You need both.

Explore how to combine structured learning and on-the-job experience to drive real performance—without adding complexity to your HR or L&D team.
Learning best practices
Is your training working? Here’s how to tell without a dashboard
Electives team
 
Oct 9, 2025

Is your training working? Here’s how to tell without a dashboard

Learn how to measure training impact with real signs of behavior change and performance improvement.
Learning best practices
Soft skills in a tech-driven workplace: Here’s what really matters
Electives team
 
Oct 8, 2025

Soft skills in a tech-driven workplace: Here’s what really matters

In a world of AI and automation, soft skills are the real differentiators. Here’s how to build them into daily work—without adding busywork.
Communication skills
How small experiments create big learning cultures
Electives team
 
Oct 7, 2025

How small experiments create big learning cultures

Learn how lean HR teams can use low-lift experiments to drive real learning, boost performance and build a culture that adapts fast.
Culture + collaboration
10 learning trends to watch in 2026 (and how to stay ahead)
Electives team
 
Oct 2, 2025

10 learning trends to watch in 2026 (and how to stay ahead)

See how leading HR teams are using live learning, AI training and power skills to drive business impact in 2026.
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