What topics should new manager training include?

Stepping into a managerial role requires a variety of skills to effectively lead a team and contribute to an organization's success.

Training programs for new managers should be comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics that equip new managers with the necessary tools and knowledge to face the multifaceted challenges of leadership.

Here are the essential topics that should be included in new manager training:

Talent management + engagement

Understanding how to identify, develop and retain talent is crucial for managers. Training should include strategies for nurturing employee growth and building a robust and skilled team.

Collaboration + communication

Creating a collaborative team culture is vital to innovation and performance. Managers must learn to encourage teamwork, facilitate cross-functional projects and leverage diverse strengths.

Meeting facilitation

Effective meeting facilitation ensures that team meetings are productive, inclusive and action-oriented. New managers must learn to set clear agendas, encourage participation and make efficient decisions.

Feedback dynamics + one-on-one meetings

Providing constructive feedback is a critical skill for managers. Training should cover how to offer feedback that motivates and improves performance. Additionally, new managers can benefit significantly from using one-on-one meeting agenda templates, which help structure these interactions to be more meaningful and productive.

Difficult conversations

Managers often face challenging conversations. Sometimes they’re to address performance issues. Other times it’s about mediating conflicts. New manager training should include strategies for approaching these conversations with sensitivity and assertiveness.

Leading remote/hybrid teams

With the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, managers must adapt their leadership styles. Training should cover effective communication, team engagement and performance management in a virtual setting.

Time management + productivity

Managers juggle multiple responsibilities and priorities. Training in time management and productivity techniques can help new managers optimize their schedules and achieve their goals more efficiently.

Goal setting

Setting clear, achievable goals is foundational to team success. New managers must learn to create SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound) goals, track progress and align team efforts with organizational objectives.

Project management

Basic project management skills enable managers to plan, execute and monitor projects effectively. Training should cover project planning, resource allocation, risk management and evaluation.

Performance + accountability

Managers play a critical role in driving performance and ensuring accountability. New manager training should cover setting performance standards, monitoring progress and addressing accountability issues constructively.

Problem solving

Managers are often required to solve complex problems. Training should equip them with problem-solving frameworks and critical thinking skills to navigate challenges and make informed decisions.

Building trust

Trust is the foundation of effective leadership. New managers must understand the importance of building trust through transparency, consistency and integrity.

Emotional intelligence + empathy

Leadership also involves understanding and managing one's emotions and empathizing with others. Training in emotional intelligence can help new managers build stronger relationships and foster a supportive team environment.

Work/life balance

Maintaining a healthy work/life balance is essential for managers and their teams. New manager training should include strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries and encouraging a culture that values well-being.

Incorporating the topics outlined above into new manager training programs will prepare leaders to navigate the complexities of their roles effectively. By focusing on these critical areas, organizations can ensure their managers are well-equipped to lead their teams to success.

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