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Corporate leadership training

Leadership Skills for New Managers Training Course in Germany

Give first-time managers a practical way to lead from the outset: set clear goals, delegate with confidence, hold one-to-ones that build trust, give effective feedback and resolve conflict and performance issues before they escalate, through experiential, hands-on learning.

  • In-person, virtual
    or blended
  • Customised for
    your organisation
  • Delivered worldwide,
    including Germany
  • For new and aspiring managers
    and team supervisors

Course overview

What Are Leadership Skills for New Managers?

Leadership skills for new managers are the practical abilities that help someone who excelled in their own role achieve results through a team. On this course, participants build a flexible leadership style, emotional intelligence, time management, sound judgement, planning and delegation, one-to-ones, clear goals, effective feedback, ways to resolve conflict and underperformance, and an understanding of motivation.

Interactive workshops, case studies and peer collaboration let participants practise one-to-ones, feedback and difficult conversations through experiential learning, based on situations new managers in Germany encounter.

Set in Germany’s dynamic business landscape, the course takes an experiential approach: new managers learn by doing, through interactive workshops, case studies and peer collaboration. They discover their own leadership style, learn to delegate well and to handle intercultural dynamics, and return with the confidence to lead their teams towards shared goals.

Why it matters

Why New Manager Skills Matter in Germany

Organisations in Germany work in a dynamic, fast-paced business environment where new managers often navigate intercultural dynamics. Those who communicate clearly, delegate well and build trust help their teams perform.

  • Promotion is not preparation

    Excelling as an expert rarely prepares anyone for the very different job of leading people.

  • Managers shape the day

    The manager sets the tone: team focus and motivation follow their lead.

  • Small problems grow

    Conflict and weak performance left unresolved lead to missed goals and staff turnover.

  • Pipelines need managers

    Every organisation in Germany depends on a capable first layer of management.

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The Knowles leadership approach

From Insight to Impact

The six steps mirror the rhythm of practical management, from planning what has to be done to looking back on the results with the team, giving new managers a structure to lean on while they develop their own style.

The manager’s routine

  1. 1. PlanWhat must we deliver?
  2. 2. AssignWho does what?
  3. 3. Check-inHow is it going?
  4. 4. FeedbackWhat should change?
  5. 5. SupportWhat do they need?
  6. 6. ReviewWhat did we achieve?

Key benefits

Why Organisations Choose This Course

This programme helps your leaders and your organisation to:

  • Faster Ramp-Up

    New managers become productive in their role more quickly.

  • Organised Teams

    Clear goals and delegation leave every person sure of their focus.

  • Honest Feedback

    Effective feedback becomes routine, not an annual shock.

  • Problems Tackled Early

    Conflict and weak performance resolved before they escalate.

  • Motivated Staff

    Managers who know each person’s strengths and motivators.

  • A Stronger Pipeline

    A succession of managers ready to take on more.

Have questions about this course?

Our team is happy to help. Send us a message and we will get back to you within one business day.

Contact Us
A facilitator pointing to a flip chart reading Learn, Practise and Lead as participants around a table listen and take notes

Course curriculum

A practical and structured learning journey.

Twelve units in three stages lead participants from leading themselves, to organising and delegating work, and on to managing people and performance, with experiential learning in every unit.

  • Unit 1

    Situational Styles

    • Compare leadership models, including situational styles from directing to delegating.
    • Adapt your style to the situation and to each person’s readiness.
    • Avoid over-supervising people and also abandoning them too soon.
  • Unit 2

    Managing Emotions

    • Understand how emotions shape your reactions at work.
    • Manage your emotions and respond fairly in a crisis.
    • Use empathy to see what drives colleagues’ behaviour.
  • Unit 3

    Protecting Time

    • Find the right balance between doing and managing.
    • Weigh urgency against value before taking on new work.
    • Cut back on interruptions and meetings without a clear purpose.
  • Unit 4

    Everyday Decisions

    • Separate the decisions you take yourself from those to share.
    • Sharpen your judgement so decisions are timely.
    • Explain decisions clearly in speech and in writing.
  • Unit 5

    Planning Work

    • Turn clear goals into tasks and priorities for the week.
    • Distribute work in line with each person’s strengths.
    • Anticipate holidays, absence and busy periods.
  • Unit 6

    Clear Assignments

    • Hand over tasks with a clear aim, standard and deadline.
    • Master delegation as a way to grow your people.
    • Set check-ins but leave responsibility where it belongs.
  • Unit 7

    Regular One-to-Ones

    • Hold regular one-to-ones built on trust and transparency.
    • Listen actively and speak less than the other person.
    • Hear early what worries people and where they hope to grow.
  • Unit 8

    Setting Targets

    • Set clear goals with every team member.
    • Align each person’s goals with the team’s shared objectives.
    • Make progress transparent and change goals as plans change.
  • Unit 9

    Giving Feedback

    • Plan effective feedback with the SBI model of situation, behaviour and impact.
    • Make recognition specific so people know what to repeat.
    • Give critical feedback with consistency and respect.
  • Unit 10

    Slipping Performance

    • Recognise early when output or quality starts to slip.
    • Find the cause: a skills gap, low motivation or a situation outside work.
    • Agree concrete steps to improve and review them together.
  • Unit 11

    Team Disputes

    • Understand the sources of conflict and act before it escalates.
    • Listen to all parties before you take a position.
    • Negotiate a win-win outcome both sides can work with.
  • Unit 12

    Motivation

    • Recognise and use each person’s strengths and motivators.
    • Value hard work and progress, not just the end result.
    • Follow a personal development plan to keep growing.

Course agenda

Two-day course agenda.

A sample agenda showing how the two days run, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final agenda is agreed with you.

Day oneManaging yourself and the work

Welcome, objectives and introductions

Situational styles

Morning break

Managing emotions

Lunch

Protecting time

Everyday decisions

Afternoon break

Planning work

Day one reflection

Close

Day twoManaging people and performance

Recap and goals for the day

Clear assignments

Morning break

One-to-ones and targets

Lunch

Giving feedback

Slipping performance and team disputes

Afternoon break

Motivation

Your routine and action planning

Close

Participant resources

What participants receive.

A practical set of resources to support learning during the course and application afterwards.

  • Course Workbook

    Content, summaries and activities for every unit.

  • Templates and Worksheets

    Ready-to-use tools to apply learning at work.

  • Action Plan Template

    Turn learning into clear next steps.

  • Job Aids and Quick Guides

    Key models, checklists and frameworks for daily use.

  • Digital Resources

    Additional materials to revisit after the course.

  • Certificate of Completion

    Recognition of the training completed.

A facilitator taking notes on a clipboard as two participants practise a workplace conversation at a round table, with colleagues looking on

Practical application

From theory to real workplace impact.

Interactive workshops and case studies have participants plan a week, delegate a task, hold a one-to-one and give challenging feedback, the moments that test new managers in Germany in their first months.

  • One-to-One Practice

    Lead a one-to-one with a peer who takes the part of a team member.

  • Feedback Role-Play

    Exchange praise and constructive criticism, then reverse the roles.

  • Weekly Plan Build

    Break team goals down into a week of clear assignments.

  • Performance Case

    Review a case of declining performance and set a recovery plan.

Who should attend

Designed for new and aspiring managers.

Ideal for recent graduates moving into management, junior managers, mid-career professionals pivoting into leadership and established leaders refreshing their skills, in any sector.

  • New ManagersGain a firm footing early in the role.
  • Team LeadersSteer the team’s workload confidently.
  • SupervisorsRun shift teams and give feedback that lands.
  • Aspiring ManagersPrepare for the step into management.
  • Specialists Moving UpMove from expert to manager of experts.
  • Recent GraduatesStart their careers with sound management habits.

Course format and delivery

Flexible options to suit your organisation.

Choose the format and duration that fit your schedule and learning needs, whether at your workplace in Germany, online or a mix of both.

  • In-Person Training

    Delivered at your organisation in Germany or at a suitable venue.

  • Virtual Training

    Interactive, engaging live online delivery.

  • Blended Learning

    A combination of in-person and virtual sessions.

  • Customised Training

    Tailor case studies, organisation focus, delivery mode, modules and duration. Explore Customized Training

  • Typical Duration2 Full Days9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also available as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites and experience level.

No prior management experience is required. The course suits new and aspiring managers from any sector and works well for mixed groups.

  • No formal prerequisites

    Open to anyone new to managing, or about to be.

  • All experience levels

    From entry-level staff to experienced specialists.

  • Designed for mixed groups

    New managers from different sectors learn together.

  • Ready to take part

    Bring a real management situation you are facing.

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Course framework

A structured approach to developing leaders.

The framework follows a cycle of experiential learning: understand the manager’s job, practise it with peers, reflect on the result and apply it with your own team.

  • Practical and Actionable

    Hands-on tools ready for immediate use at work.

  • Relevant to Germany

    Built for the dynamic business landscape managers face in Germany.

  • Confidence Through Practice

    Self-discovery and practice that build real confidence.

The new manager’s cycle

  1. 1. LearnCore leadership principles
  2. 2. ExploreCase studies and discussion
  3. 3. PractiseRole-plays and simulations
  4. 4. ReflectSelf-assessment and journaling
  5. 5. ApplyReal-world projects
  6. 6. GrowMentoring and peer support

Key learning outcomes

From knowledge to lasting leadership impact.

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

  • 01

    Adapt your style

    Choose the leadership style each situation and person requires.

  • 02

    Manage your time

    Balance managing the team with delivering your own work.

  • 03

    Plan and assign work

    Break goals into delegated tasks, each with an owner and deadline.

  • 04

    Hold one-to-ones

    Run one-to-ones based on trust and openness.

  • 05

    Give feedback

    Give effective feedback that people can use.

  • 06

    Tackle problems early

    Resolve conflict and weak performance before they escalate.

A confident team leader in a blue blazer smiling as she leads a team meeting, with colleagues seated around the table in the foreground

The step into management is a shift from doing good work yourself to helping others do their best.

A participant placing sticky notes reading Role Play, Case Study and Feedback around a hand-drawn Action Plan circle on a workshop table

Example exercises and tools

Learn by doing.

The programme uses experiential exercises and practical tools so new managers can try each technique with peers and then apply it with their own team.

Interactive workshops, case studies and peer collaboration put participants into situations new managers in Germany meet, from delegating work they used to do themselves to explaining a decision clearly to colleagues from different cultural backgrounds. They practise decision-making, constructive feedback and win-win negotiation, and finish with a personalised development plan and routines to use with their team straight away.

  • Style Matcher

    Match a leadership style to each team member’s situation.

  • Time Log

    Map a week of your time and find what to delegate.

  • Task Brief

    Prepare a brief stating aim, standard and deadline.

  • SBI Feedback

    Structure a feedback conversation using the SBI model.

Assessment

Assessment and learning progress.

A mix of steps before, during and after the programme keeps learning relevant and turns it into action.

Step 1

Before the training

Share your goals and team context.

Agree the objectives and focus areas.

Confirm the format, timing and group.

Step 2

During the training

Role-plays, simulations and practical exercises.

Feedback from experienced leaders as skills develop.

Group discussion and reflection.

Step 3

After the training

A personal action plan for the workplace.

Self-assessment and guided journaling to track progress.

Ongoing learning through peers, mentors and the alumni network.

Workplace application

Relevant to your context.

Participants put the tools to work in organisations in Germany, whether organising next week’s workload or tackling a first awkward conversation about performance.

  • Team PrioritiesAgree clear team goals.
  • Task HandoversDelegate with clarity.
  • Check-in MeetingsCheck progress and morale often.
  • AppraisalsAssess results objectively.
  • Difficult TalksTackle tough topics with tact.
  • RecognitionShow appreciation for strong work.
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Let’s discuss your requirements

Request a Customised Leadership Programme.

Talk to our team about how this course can be tailored for your organisation in Germany or other locations worldwide.

Request a Proposal
  • Share your priorities
  • Receive a tailored proposal
  • Explore delivery options

Adapting for Germany

Adapting the programme for German organisations.

We tailor the course so it reflects your people, your sector and the context you work in.

  • Local case studies

    Examples and case studies drawn from leaders in Germany.

  • Cultural awareness

    Content that respects cultural nuances and builds inclusive environments.

  • Community focus

    Projects that address real local and community issues.

  • Industry and organisation focus

    Examples, terminology and scenarios from your sector.

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Delivery worldwide

Flexible delivery across Germany and worldwide.

We deliver this programme in Germany and in other locations worldwide, with flexible formats and options to suit your organisation.

  • In-person
  • Virtual
  • Blended
  • At Your Workplace

    In-house sessions at your office in Germany.

  • A Venue You Choose

    Delivered at a training venue that suits your team.

  • Live Online

    Interactive virtual sessions wherever your people are.

  • Across Countries

    Programmes coordinated across several locations worldwide.

Client experiences

What our participants say.

Word-for-word feedback from participants at organisations in Singapore. Read all reviews

  • The course allowed me to identify the area where errors could occur and the various steps to identify and reduce the errors. Case studies were also provided to give a real-life experience instead of theoretical lessons.

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  • Yes, because it helped me learn the basics of critical thinking to generate new ideas, analyze articles, and make arguments.

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  • Yes, the communication strategies are practical enough to be used immediately in our everyday project work.

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  • Yes, because it serves as a helpful reminder to prioritize mental well-being alongside daily targets.

    ASMPT (ASM Assembly Systems) logo
    Work Life Balance Lunch TalkASM Assembly Systems Singapore Pte. Ltd
  • Yes definitely, since it teaches a fresh, highly constructive approach to problem-solving and team collaboration.

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    Appreciative Inquiry CourseITOL ASIA
  • Yes definitely. Gaining a deep understanding of structured mentoring models is incredibly beneficial for anyone stepping into a leadership role.

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    Mentoring CourseEu Yan Sang

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this course.

What is the main focus of this course?

It centres on the practical skills a new manager needs: adapting style to the situation, time management, goal setting and delegation, one-to-ones, effective feedback and early action on conflict and performance, applied to workplaces in Germany.

What topics does the course cover?

Twelve units in three stages: managing yourself (situational styles, managing emotions, protecting time, everyday decisions), running the work (planning work, clear assignments, regular one-to-ones, setting targets) and managing performance (giving feedback, slipping performance, team disputes and motivation).

Who should attend this course?

Recent graduates entering management, junior and newly promoted managers, team leaders, supervisors and mid-career professionals moving into leadership roles.

Is the course suitable for new or first-time leaders?

Yes. It was created for people in their first management role and for those about to take that step.

Is the course practical or theory-based?

Practical by design. Interactive workshops and case studies give participants the chance to practise one-to-ones, feedback and hard conversations with peers before using them at work.

How long is the course?

The standard course runs over 2 full days, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can also be delivered as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.

Can the course be customised for our organisation?

Yes. We can adapt the content, examples and format to your goals, industry and team. See Customized Corporate Training for how we tailor programmes.

Can we use examples from our own industry?

Yes. We design and deliver our courses with subject matter experts in each field. Tell us about your industry, context and terminology when you enquire, and it will be taken into account.

Can we combine this course with other topics?

Yes. We can combine related topics into one programme or build a learning pathway across several sessions and levels.

Is this course available outside Germany?

Yes. We deliver this programme in other countries worldwide, in person or live online, and can coordinate it across several locations.

What delivery options are available?

In person at your workplace or a venue you choose, live online, or a blend of both.

What kind of exercises and activities are included?

Peer one-to-ones, feedback exchanges, weekly workload planning, a declining-performance case, style matching, mapping your time, writing a task brief and building SBI feedback.

Do participants receive mentoring during the course?

Yes. Participants receive mentorship and constructive feedback from experienced leaders throughout the course.

Will participants build a professional network?

Yes. Participants connect with fellow participants, build mentoring relationships with facilitators and guest speakers, and can join an alumni network for ongoing learning.

How does the course support personal growth?

Through regular self-assessment and reflection, guided journaling to track progress and set goals, and techniques for mindfulness and stress management.

Is the course relevant to the German context?

Yes. It is designed for new managers in Germany, with case studies and workshops reflecting the dynamic business landscape and the intercultural dynamics they meet at work.

Which cities in Germany can the course be delivered in?

We can deliver it in cities across Germany, including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf, and other cities on request. We also offer a full range of leadership courses in Germany.

Can we download a course brochure?

Yes. Download our course brochure for an overview of our training programmes.

How do we request a proposal?

Share your goals and requirements through the enquiry form on this page. Our team replies within one business day with suggestions and a tailored proposal.

Who can we contact about this course?

Email [email protected], call +65 6714 6663 or use the enquiry form on this page. We reply within one business day.

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Next steps

From enquiry to delivery.

A simple, transparent process from your first message to the training day.

  1. 1

    Enquiry

    Share your training needs and priorities.

  2. 2

    Consultation

    We discuss and refine the scope with you.

  3. 3

    Proposal

    Receive a tailored proposal with delivery options.

  4. 4

    Confirm

    Review, adjust and agree the details.

  5. 5

    Delivery

    We deliver the programme for your team.

Get in touch

Get in touch about this course.

Tell us about your team and goals, and we will recommend the right format for your organisation in Germany. Fill in the form or contact our team directly.

  • Email us[email protected]
  • Call us+65 6714 6663
  • Quick replyWe get back to you within one business day.
  • Ask before you commitTalk to our team about the right course and format for your needs.

This course is customisable

We can tailor the content, examples and activities to your team’s industry, goals and workplace context. Explore Customized Training

Enquiry form

Request a Training Proposal

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