Managers to Get More Training Than Execs

Managers Are a High Training Priority: Companies are putting emphasis on developing managers and entry-level employees, but not as much on senior executives, according to a survey by Novations Group. The Boston-based consulting firm says 9 of 10 frontline managers are receiving formal training and development in 2007, compared with 75 percent for “experienced non-management employees” and 82 percent for those joining companies at entry levels. By contrast, only 6 of 10 people who occupy senior management posts are slated to get targeted training opportunities. The dichotomy exists for two reasons, according to Novations. First, it cites executives’ historic “ambivalence” to training. A second reason lies in the need to increase “bench strength,” leading organizations to place a disproportionate focus on nurturing highly productive managers and supervisors.