The new manager playbook
A fast, effective approach to developing first-time managers
Start here
We believe managers learn best in the flow of their work, and when they have someone to talk to about their unique challenges as they arise (and they will).
This playbook makes that possible with our Learn, Do, Discuss model. For each core skill, managers 1) learn key techniques 2) put them into practice, and 3) reflect on their successes and challenges with others.
We call these three steps a ‘sprint’. Each sprint takes 1-2 weeks. Across nine topics, that means managers can be up to speed in 9+ weeks.
This playbook makes that possible with our Learn, Do, Discuss model. For each core skill, managers 1) learn key techniques 2) put them into practice, and 3) reflect on their successes and challenges with others.
We call these three steps a ‘sprint’. Each sprint takes 1-2 weeks. Across nine topics, that means managers can be up to speed in 9+ weeks.
Learn
We have provided learning resources below for nine topics we know are crucial to succeed as a new manager. For each topic, we have compiled the best tips and guidance from leading companies and experts. Each resource is designed to provide managers with plenty of ideas on that topic for how they can best run their team. Each sprint begins with reading through the relevant resource to learn more about that topic.
Do
Each resource includes suggested actions for managers to put into practice and questions to consider. We know every company and every team is different, but we believe across each resource there should be at least one new thing most first-time managers will take away to try with their team over the following weeks.
Discuss
Now the most important part.
At the end of each sprint, each manager should take time to discuss the topic, and the results of any new practices, either in a peer group or 1:1 (or a combination).
This is invaluable. It’s the opportunity to celebrate successes, learn from any challenges, and discuss issues in the context of your team/company (which no training resource could possibly offer or predict).
For more information on setting up peer group or 1:1 discussions, see the FAQs.
At the end of each sprint, each manager should take time to discuss the topic, and the results of any new practices, either in a peer group or 1:1 (or a combination).
This is invaluable. It’s the opportunity to celebrate successes, learn from any challenges, and discuss issues in the context of your team/company (which no training resource could possibly offer or predict).
For more information on setting up peer group or 1:1 discussions, see the FAQs.
Progress
And then onto the next topic!
You can use these resources to run your own manager training course, or you can learn more about how we use them in our peer learning and 1:1 coaching programs.
go to playbookYou can use these resources to run your own manager training course, or you can learn more about how we use them in our peer learning and 1:1 coaching programs.
