5 Power Tools to Transform Overworked Managers into Career Coaching Rockstars

According to a survey carried out by The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) survey, 84% of managers struggle with prioritizing work, and 71% find it difficult to finish tasks. Additionally, 63% report having little time to think, and 53% struggle with finding time for strategic planning. One can conclude that managers are not getting the time and opportunity to help their team members to reach their full potential and this will ultimately hamper organizational productivity​ (Personnel Today)

Furthermore, the CMI report highlights the phenomenon of “accidental managers,” where individuals assume management roles without formal training. The research indicates that 82% of managers lack formal management or leadership training, leading to poor management practices that can have devastating effects on business performance​ (CMI)​.

The CMI’s findings underscore the need for better support and training for managers to improve their ability to get the best out of others. One case in point that we have seen through our work at Lexonis, is when it comes to career development discussions.  Many managers aspire to demonstrate clear career progression pathways and help their team members understand the steps needed to advance. Yet, they often need additional support and resources to facilitate these important conversations, which are crucial for fostering employee growth and engagement. 

For even the most experienced line manager, let alone the ‘accidental manager’, being able to offer constructive advice and guidance on the skills and competencies most critical for development can be a tall order.

By equipping managers with the right tools and training, organizations can ensure that these discussions are productive, leading to a motivated and high-performing team.

In turn, empowered high-performing teams become more cohesive, motivated, and productive, creating a ripple effect that elevates the entire organization. At Lexonis, we have found that the path to a thriving, dynamic workplace begins with supporting your managers – and the right toolkit can be the cornerstone of this transformation. 

So, what might a manager’s toolkit look like?

1. Career Development Framework – a structured framework outlining career paths within the organization, job descriptions and competencies required for various roles and some clear criteria for progression and promotion.

2. Individual Development Plans (IDPs) – templates for creating personalized development plans, guidelines on setting development goals and tools for tracking progress and achievements.

3. Learning and Development Programs – access to in-house or external training courses, E-learning platforms and online resources, and workshops and seminars mapped to the relevant skills and competencies in jobs across their functions.

4. Capability Data – which includes information about employees’ skills, competencies, supporting experiences, and potential; visibility of this kind of data can significantly enhance career development discussions between managers and their team members. 

5. Coaching Guidance – advice on how to break down the coaching process into manageable steps, including practical tips, conversation starters and sample questions to help managers ask the right questions, and facilitate deeper and more meaningful discussions.

Skills-based talent management tools such as Lexonis Talentscape and ready to use job and competency libraries that include coaching tips, help organizations equip their managers with a comprehensive toolkit, that not only demonstrates an investment in career development, but also fosters a culture of growth in the organization.

Concluding Insights

Providing managers with a comprehensive toolkit for career development is a strategic investment that yields significant benefits for both the organization and its employees.

A toolkit offers managers structured guidance and best practices, ensuring consistency and effectiveness in career development discussions.

Using capability data and structured tools ensures that career development decisions are based on objective assessments rather than subjective opinions.

By systematically developing employees’ skills and capabilities, the organization can identify and nurture future leaders.

Ready to help your managers? Contact us to receive a free sample from our manager’s career coaching toolkit.