Manager Soft Skills Program:
MEAD Program
Program Highlights
Engaging Skill Building Sessions
I design skill-building sessions that are facilitated by myself and other team members.
Learner-Led Cohort Meetings
I design cohort guides that allow learners to explore the month's topic in their cohort and make commitments to their own growth
Data-driven skill building
Learners complete a self-assessment of their skills in the month's target areas before as the month begins and ends to track their growth.
User-friendly Design
Learners use the lessons within the monthly module to track their progress, register for instructor-led trainings, and more.
ADDIE Model
Analysis
The project began with a thorough analysis of the challenges new managers were facing. Many were struggling in their roles and felt unsupported. To address this, I researched the most common areas where new managers need development—such as communication, delegation, and conflict resolution. Based on these insights, I developed a set of learning objectives aligned with our organizational goals.
Design
After completing my analysis, I evaluated the types of learning experiences that are most effective within our organization. Independent e-learning tends to be unpopular for soft skills topics, especially among time-constrained managers. This insight led me to design a program delivered in short, manageable 2–3-hour segments spread over several months. To foster collaboration and peer learning, I organized participants into cohorts. Given that our talent development team is often understaffed, I also prioritized participant-led elements to ensure the program could be sustained with minimal facilitation.
Development
The program is organized into modules within Articulate Rise. Each lesson empowers learners to independently facilitate cohort meetings, self-enroll in instructor-led sessions, and monitor their own progress throughout the program.
Implementation
The first cohorts launched in April 2025. They navigate the monthly content using the modules and lessons, guiding themselves through the material and tracking their own progress.
Evaluation
We continuously gather feedback from participants to refine both the modules and instructor-led sessions. In a recent survey, one participant shared the following about the program:
"I have truly valued being part of the MEAD program. It has been an incredibly enriching experience, both professionally and personally. For me, the most meaningful aspect has been the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are also committed to growing in their leadership journey. The collaborative environment fostered by the program has allowed for deep, thoughtful discussions and shared learning that have been both inspiring and transformative. Engaging with others who bring diverse perspectives and experiences has broadened my understanding of leadership and helped me reflect more intentionally on my own approach. Perhaps most impactful of all are the friendships I’ve formed along the way. These connections have not only provided support and encouragement but have also offered valuable insights into different leadership styles and workplace challenges. I genuinely believe that learning from others’ experiences has made me a more empathetic, effective, and well-rounded manager."