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Enable the Transition to Leadership for First-Time Managers

Move beyond a do’s and don’ts training deck to create a robust first-time manager development program.

  • Organizations tend to prioritize development at higher levels of leadership while first-time managers receive minimal training and support as they transition into their new roles.
  • Due to a lack of investment and attention, leadership development for first-time managers often comes in the form of self-help, leading many first-time managers to be ineffective.

Executive Summary

Critical Insight

  • Developing first-time managers is a shared responsibility that must be prioritized. Comprehensive, end-to-end development programs that include key players set first-time managers up for success and positively impact the business.

Impact & Result

  • Outlining expectations and including various key players in first-time manager development, not just the first-time managers themselves, creates a culture of support and development that sets new leaders on the path to success and drives organizational outcomes.
  • Identify and address critical knowledge and competencies that your first-time managers should be well versed in, to ensure their path to leadership begins on the right foot.
  • Create an ongoing development program that engages learners and sustains and reinforces key concepts for demonstrated results.

Research & Tools

1. Establish first-time manager expectations in the organization

Determine first-time manager expectations according to the administration, team management, people development, and personal leadership development components of the role.

2. Assess the current state of first-time manager development initiatives

Assess existing first-time manager development activities to find gaps, establish goals, and set metrics for a new first-time manager development program.

3. Design a first-time manager development program

Add or tailor development initiatives in the new first-time managers development program to design a first-time manager learning path.

4. Implement the program and measure success

Determine a roll-out strategy for your first-time manager development program and assess the program based on feedback and analysis.

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