Leadership Training Dr. Martens. First Time Managers Programme. The challenge. Dr. Martens’ Global Learning and Development Lead approached PeopleUnboxed to support the development of soft skill and leadership behaviours in employees transitioning to a management role for the first time. Focus groups had highlighted a need for training in areas such as people management, effectiveness and productivity; our solution needed to expand knowledge and skills in these areas, build confidence to perform this crucial role, and springboard to a successful management career. Dr. Martens signifies rebellious individuality and the programme needed to match up. We designed the First Time Manager Programme (FTMP), a truly blended, multi-modal, unique learning solution, offered by no other provider, called ‘BundleBoxBlend’. The aims of the programme were defined as: Increased confidence in managers to build autonomy Higher engagement and staff satisfaction within the team members managed by delegates Increased efficiency and effectiveness within the teams managed by delegates 100+ Nationwide The solution. The programme consisted of: virtual classroom sessions, online courses, coaching calls, learning app quizzes and e-workbook activities to embed and apply their new knowledge within their day-today work environment. Beforehand, we consulted end users about how they best learn and what they wanted to achieve from the programme. We undertook an instrumental pilot cohort that allowed us visibility and led to some minor but impactful changes for the overall success, including amending the regularity of the modules and replacing one of the skills modules. In addition to technology being instrumental in virtual delivery, pre-course elearning and interactive pdf e-workbooks, the most innovative element of the programme was the use of spaced repetition learning app, to embed the learning for lasting impact. The 6 topics were split into LEADER modules: Leadership potential, Engaging people, Authentic communication, Delegating and motivation, Embracing conflict and Responsible leadership. As effective pre/post interventions were key to achieving the desired impact and return on investment, delegates were given access to relevant micro-elearning courses to gain a basic understanding of topics prior to virtual sessions. Dr. Martens provided an internal dedicated mentor to each delegate and an active liaison for a portal where all content was accessible and provided a safe place to ask questions, share advice and discuss real life examples. The design of this programme had maximum engagement and impact at it’s heart.. The results. “”We selected BundleBoxBlend because it provides the right mix of content to support our newest leaders in sharpening their skills and it offered a creative solution that aligns with our blended-learning approach to skills development. The feedback we’ve had from managers and their line managers confirms we made the right choice; they love the PeopleUnboxed team, the programme is contributing to notable behavioural change and, as a result, managers are able to quickly perform competently and confidently in their new role. PeopleUnboxed are a valuable extension to our HR team – right for our people, our culture and our brand.” Global Learning and Development Lead “I look at a lot of things differently to when I first began in this role. The delegation piece, trying to get the team to act for themselves. Communication and understanding that each member is different and thus has different capabilities and learning speed. Stepping back and analysing before acting – it’s all given me a huge confidence boost.” Learner (First Time Manager) “More confident and thoughtful when providing directions, asking open-ended questions to get direct reports thinking.” Line Manager of Learner “I have noticed them reflecting on things rather than rushing to give answers. Adjusting ways of working to different team members to get best out of them. There’s been a definite uptick in their confidence and decision making as a result” Line Manager of Learner “I found the content really interesting and have learnt a lot of things on topics I’ve never really experienced before. It was interactive, well structured, delivered in an engaging way with plenty of support material.” Learner (First Time Manager) “Great experience, really benefitted from this programme.” Learner (First Time Manager) “The overall experience has been seriously helpful, I couldn’t recommend it enough.” Learner (First Time Manager) Previous Next How can we support you with leadership development programmes? Click here to find out more