@thevantagepoint

Essentials for New Managers Lab

Lab Outline

Stepping into a management role requires more than technical skill — it calls for clarity, confidence, and the ability to support others effectively.

In this three-day lab, new and emerging managers gain practical tools to understand their role, build strong relationships, and lead their teams with purpose and accountability.

Through a mix of reflection, real-world scenarios, and hands-on practice, participants learn how to define their leadership approach, set and communicate priorities, delegate effectively, and create the conditions for strong performance. The lab also explores foundational strategies for motivating staff and volunteers, navigating challenging situations, and fostering environments where people feel supported, included, and able to do their best work.

By the end of the lab, participants leave with a personalized management approach, clear tools they can apply immediately, and increased confidence in leading others — no matter the size or structure of their organization.

Suggested participants:

You are an ideal candidate if you:​

  • are new to a non-profit management role or are looking to be promoted in the next 6-12 months​.
  • provide leadership or supervision in your current role​.
  • have a vision to take on further management responsibilities in your career​.

Important note! If you are the sole employee in your organization (e.g. the executive director), this may NOT be the best program for you. We encourage you to also consider our other programs including: Leadership Principles Lab, Executive Director 101 Lab, and our many workshops.

Lab Outcomes

By the end of this lab, you will be able to:

  • Develop self-awareness and learn to empower yourself and others with a strengths-based leadership approach.​
  • Walk away with tangible tools and frameworks that can be applied when managing others.​
  • Learn about the ways conflict can show up and how to work through it in a healthy way.​
  • Think critically about what kind of culture you want to nurture for your team and organization.

Registration Details

Location: Online/Virtual​

Cost: $649 Non-member | $584 Member​

Required Course Material: Top 5 CliftonStrengths (Important note: This assessment is not included in the course fee, and is to be completed independently online before the start of the course).

Lab Schedule

Choose between our spring or fall cohort.

Winter 2026 Schedule

March 3, 2026 | 9 - 12pm

March 10, 2026 | 9 - 12pm

March 17, 2026 | 9 - 12pm

Fall 2026 Schedule

November 24, 2026 | 1 - 4pm

December 1, 2026 | 1 - 4pm

December 8, 2026 | 1 - 4pm

Lab Benefits

  • Develop a grounded understanding of their role as a manager and how their leadership style influences team performance.
  • Gain practical skills in setting priorities, delegating work, supporting performance, and addressing challenges with clarity and confidence.
  • Strengthen their ability to motivate and engage staff and volunteers by aligning strengths, fostering inclusion, and creating supportive team environments.

Lab Topics

Topics of each of the 3 half-day learning session.

  • Understanding your role as a manager and your personal leadership strengths
  • Setting priorities, building work plans, and aligning team goals
  • Effective delegation, motivation, and performance management
  • Supporting team performance, navigating challenges, and fostering inclusion

Register today!

Are you ready to get started? Register today and begin your journey building upon your new role.