We all know that managers are on the front lines of keeping employees engaged and productive. To help them in their efforts, ASTD has launched the Workforce Development Community of Practice to provide tools and resources designed specifically for managers and supervisor or for those trainers involved in working directly with managers to develop their skills.

"This community was formed to reach managers because they are directly involved in developing employees on a daily basis, but not usually covered in ASTD's typical offerings," says Ron Lippock, manager of the Workforce Development Community.

The new Workforce Development track offers 10 sessions specifically targeted toward management development and focus specifically "on employee engagement and productivity concerns from the manager's, rather than just the trainer's, perspective," says Lippock. Sessions, available Sunday through Wednesday are as follows:

Sunday:

  • SU202 - Engaging a 24/7 Mobile Workforce
  • SU117 - Conveying Management Training as a Win-Win Through Stronger Partnerships With Managers
  • SU216 - Five secrets of Exceptional Managers Who Develop Their Workforce Daily
  • SU318 - Take Charge of Your Talent--Engage Employee Self-Motivation Successfully

Monday:

  • M312 - Building the Business Case for Optimal Motivation

Tuesday:

  • TU217 - Enhancing Employee Engagement: The Pepsi Beverages Company's Success Story
  • TU202 - Five Critical Strategies for Managers to "Grow" Better Results
  • TU313 - "Managing Talent for Results": a Serious Game for Business Managers that Really Works

Wednesday:

  • W113 - Engage, Develop, and Retain Employees Through Storytelling
  • W215 - Uncommon Motivation: The Secret Behind Easy Management and Great Results

In addition to the special Workforce Development track, Lippock says the community offers managers a "unique suite of services," including 360 assessment tests, training videos, employee recognition tools, and a premium library of content. For more information on the sessions or the Workforce Development Community of Practice, contact Ron Lippock.