The Systematic Development of an Online Career-Oriented People Management Training for Line Managers of Professionals: A Pilot Field Intervention Study

Abstract

This study systematically develops an online training program improving line managers’ career-oriented people management behavior, including a pilot test. This program was developed based on the six steps of the Intervention Mapping protocol. Interviews were held with line managers and physicians to understand their needs and challenges with regard to people management. The program aimed to create (self-)awareness, enhance knowledge, support the exchange of experiences, and stimulate reflection on career-oriented people management behavior and leadership style and skills. Eight senior line managers of medical professionals employed in a large Dutch academic public hospital followed the training as part of the pilot test. The program was evaluated through observations, follow-up interviews, and a survey. This study makes a methodological and theoretical contribution to the human resource management literature. It shows how career-oriented people management behavior of line managers can be enhanced, which is important as earlier studies have demonstrated the benefits of this behavior. Systematically developing this program is relevant as studies have shown that the effectiveness of leadership programs is limited because of research design issues. Moreover, this study contributes to leadership development programs as this training could be offered as part of leadership programs.