July 31, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by Alternative HR.

“A well-trained leader promotes a positive workplace culture that not only increases employee satisfaction and retention but also boosts overall organizational success.”

This is the message that Karen DeLange, director of operations and human resources consultant at Alternative HR, emphasizes during training sessions for workplace supervisors and managers.

“When supervisors and managers are well trained, they are better equipped to handle challenges, communicate effectively and inspire their teams,” DeLange said. “This leads to a more positive, engaged and productive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated. When morale is high and turnover is low, we know that the whole organization is stronger – and more profitable.”

Issues can arise, DeLange explained, when supervisors or managers aren’t trained on how to lead people.

“The supervisor typically knows how to perform the technical parts of the job – that’s not the problem,” she said. “The gap often shows up in their communication skills.”

Kayla Johnson, a human resources consultant with Alternative HR, agrees with DeLange and said a mistake companies can make is training their leadership team for job knowledge only, neglecting the people aspect of management.

“Training employees how to step into a management position and complete administrative tasks is one thing, but teaching our managers how to ‘lead’ a team of unique individuals is a completely different set of skills that requires more than a checklist,” Johnson said.

When supervisors lack proper leadership training, they may avoid having necessary tough conversations, DeLange said.

“Ignoring an issue doesn’t make it go away. Instead, employees get frustrated, which leads to low morale, high turnover and overall reduced productivity,” she continued. “Essentially, the supervisor or manager becomes the bottleneck instead the driving force for the team.”

Alternative HR, an outsourced human resources provider based in Sioux Falls, offers various leadership training programs to address these challenges.

“We provide both practical and hands-on leadership training to ensure that supervisors are well trained and supported,” DeLange said. “The practice and resulting confidence they receive in the classroom leads to more effective communication and leadership when they’re in front of their team.”

Alternative HR consultants offer leadership training in a variety of formats, including in person and online. They provide training to individual organizations, diverse groups and one-on-one coaching to ensure that every leader receives the support and development needed to excel.

Topics can vary based on a client’s needs and can include communication, time management, difficult conversations and conflict in the workplace.

Johnson leads a three-part supervision and leadership training series that covers critical skills, critical issues and conflict resolution.

“I advise every supervisor – veteran or rookie, no matter the industry – to take part in our supervision and leadership series to create a baseline of what is expected of them from both a personnel and compliance perspective,” Johnson said. “These are jam-packed sessions with a wealth of tips, tricks and advice on how to lead your people.”

Alternative HR clients have experienced greater organizational success when they invest in leadership training.

One of DeLange’s success stories comes from an organization that experienced significant growth but faced issues in morale.

DeLange explained that the managers were committed but were struggling with burnout trying to keep up with the increased demands. At the same time, employees were frustrated, feeling as though they weren’t empowered to make small decisions.

Alternative HR provided tailored leadership training for this organization’s managers on how to delegate effectively and how to ensure that employees performed to the new expectations.

“As a result, the company saw an increase in job satisfaction and productivity with the managers and employees as both groups were able to grow and learn new skills. It was a win-win-win,” DeLange said.

DeLange’s success story underscores the transformative power of effective leadership training.

“The only way to make managers feel comfortable and confident to be an agent of the company is by training them and giving them a guide for how your company operates and what is mandated by law,” Johnson said.

“Investing in leadership training is not just beneficial but essential for any organization aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape,” DeLange added.

To find out more about Alternative HR services and solutions, visit alternativehr.com, or call 605-335-8198.