The New Manager Dilemma: Promoted, But Not Prepared
Why New Managers Struggle
We’ve all seen it: a high-performing employee hits their goals, gets promoted into a management role—and then what? Too often, they’re left to sink or swim. No training. No coaching. Just a new title and a steep learning curve.
In a recent episode of The Leadership Lounge podcast, Adrian Davis (Momentum University) and Don Woolridge (Leadership Louisville Center) unpack the challenges that first-time managers face—and what it takes to support them.
“We promote people based on technical skill, but leadership is a completely different job.”
— Adrian Davis
The Leadership Gap
When new managers aren’t properly trained, the impact is felt at every level of an organization. Adrian and Don agree: we set new leaders up to fail when we assume they can figure it out alone. Leadership requires more than hitting KPIs. It’s about people—and most managers have never been taught how to lead them.
Don points out that many new managers carry the pressure of performance without the tools they need. They may feel like they can’t ask for help or admit they’re struggling. That silence leads to bigger issues: high turnover, low trust, poor communication, and inconsistent results.
“We don’t train people to lead—we hope they figure it out.”
— Adrian Davis
What New Managers Really Need
Both Don and Adrian agree: new managers need more than technical training. They need emotional intelligence, presence, and practical tools. They need a safe space to learn and fail forward. They need frameworks to build trust, set clear expectations, and coach their teams.
Leadership development isn’t just about making someone a better boss—it’s about helping them grow as a person. When managers feel seen and supported, they show up differently. They become the kind of leader’s people want to follow.
“Soft skills aren’t soft—they’re survival skills.”
— Adrian Davis
A Better First-Time Manager Experience
Programs like Blanchard Management Essentials®, delivered by LeadingBetter™, are designed to give new managers the foundational skills they need to lead with confidence. Through interactive workshops, coaching, and practical tools, new leaders gain the clarity and confidence to manage people—not just tasks.
“The cost of unprepared managers shows up everywhere.”
— Don Woolridge
Don emphasizes that when organizations invest in their leaders early, everyone wins. Teams become more engaged, performance improves, and culture gets stronger.
How LeadingBetter™ Can Help
At LeadingBetter™, we work with organizations to close the gap between promotion and performance. Through leadership programs like Blanchard Management Essentials®, we equip new and frontline managers with the practical tools, communication strategies, and confidence they need to lead effectively — from day one.
If your team is ready to invest in building better bosses, let’s talk.
Read more at leadingbetter.com, your hub for leadership development and talent training designed for today’s most dynamic workplaces.
LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST EPISODE HERE
SIGN UP FOR OUR LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS NEWSLETTER
Looking for opportunities to learn and grow, or help leaders on your teams?
Check out our calendar of upcoming courses or schedule a discovery meeting to see how we can support your entire team.
VIEW OUR COURSE CALENDAR SCHEDULE YOUR DISCOVERY MEETING TODAY