Dive Brief:
- The majority of America’s managers have received no management training, according to a new study by West Monroe Partners. Among managers who oversee one to two employees, 59% report having no training at all; the same measure stands at 41% among those who oversee three to five workers.
- To keep pace, 42% of new managers admit they developed their style by observing and mimicking a previous manager, rather than through any type of formalized training. Nearly half of survey respondents who had 10 or more years of managerial experience said they’ve only received about nine total hours of training. For those with less than one year as a manager, 43% have had no training at all.
- In addition to the lack of training, managers report they’re too busy with administrative tasks to adequately oversee their team: 36% report spending three to four hours per day on administrative work. Nearly half (44%) frequently feel overwhelmed at work.
Dive Insight:
Along with external skills gaps to fill vacancies, many companies are looking at skill deficiencies for existing staffers. The need for training is particularly acute for managers promoted through the ranks. In a litigious business climate, that must include compliance training.
To maximize employee engagement, a manager should be both a coach and a mentor. And to attract and retain staffers, managers must be capable of having regular career conversations. The responsibility has never been greater for those who oversee employees.
What can business do to capitalize on managerial talent? Training is critical to retain managers as well as to maintain productivity, engagement and lower attrition. Personalized training that meets the needs and capabilities of the manager is key, and on-demand training can help new and existing managers fit learning into their busy day. In this competitive market, the survey suggests managers are looking for more training, and companies that provide it will reap the benefits.
