Highly Effective Managers Program Open Training

A Leadership Development Program for Managers, Now Open to Individuals Nationwide

For years, organizations across industries have trusted the Highly Effective Managers Program to transform their leaders. More than 7,000 managers have completed this proven curriculum, strengthening not only their own leadership skills but also the engagement and performance of their teams.

Now, for the first time, we’re opening the doors to individuals. The Highly Effective Managers Program: Open Training gives managers at all levels the opportunity to join a dynamic cohort leadership program, learning alongside peers from around the country.

This is your chance to sharpen your leadership skills in a collaborative environment, without needing to wait for your organization to launch an internal program. See more below along with a link to register for the next class starting on 2/17/26. Consider the premium option that includes monthly coaching sessions.

Program Highlights

Each module of this leadership development program for managers tackles a core area of effective management.

Topics include:

• Leading with a vision and aligning your teams around shared goals
• Creating a positive, engaging, and psychologically safe culture
• Building credibility and professionalism as a leader
• Handling conflict and giving effective feedback
• Coaching employees for growth and long-term success
• Supporting consistently high levels of employee performance
• Hiring and onboarding strategies for top talent
• Holding staff accountable while maintaining trust and respect
• Optimizing team performance in times of change
• Developing a personal action plan for continued growth

By the end of this leadership development program for managers, you’ll understand the principles of effective management intrinsically enough to put them into action.

Why Join the Open Training?

Being a manager today is harder than ever. You’re expected to balance performance goals and support your team’s engagement, all while navigating constant change. Traditional training programs often fall short because they focus on abstract theory rather than day-to-day realities.

Highly Effective Organizations’ (HEO) programs are different. We provide practical, grounded programs that are immediately applicable.

By participating in the open training, you’ll:

• Learn a proven system: Gain access to a research-based framework that has helped over 7,000 managers deliver measurable results. 
• Grow with a cohort: Share challenges, exchange ideas, and build a network of supportive peers from diverse industries. 
• Develop sustainable skills: Leave with strategies, tools, and habits that enhance your effectiveness long after the program ends.

Our cohort leadership program gives you a chance to elevate your leadership skills as you connect with like-minded managers.

What You’ll Gain

This 12-month leadership development program for managers focuses on four key outcomes:

• Enhanced team performance: Master how to set clear expectations, hold your staff accountable, and coach employees to consistently excel.
• Higher engagement and retention: Learn strategies to create a positive and motivating work culture where people want to stay and contribute.
• Stronger managerial confidence: Build the skills and credibility that help you lead with clarity, purpose, and impact.
• Practical and repeatable tools: Apply what you learn through exercises, workbooks, group discussions, and ongoing reflection.

This program will elevate how you lead your people and your business, whether you’re a new supervisor, an experienced director, or anywhere in between.

How the Open Training Works

The leadership development program for managers is intentionally designed to fit into a busy manager’s schedule while still driving deep impact.

Here’s what you can expect:

• 12-month format: A year-long journey that ensures sustainable growth and skills development.
• Monthly virtual modules: Join live, 2-hour sessions led by Tim Nolan, Ed.D., that include group discussions, activities, and coaching.
• 3-hour time commitment per month: Modules, workbook exercises, and readings that fit into your busy schedule.
• Cohort experience: Learn alongside managers from across the country in a collaborative and supportive environment.

What’s Included

When you enroll in the Highly Effective Managers Program: Open Training, you’ll receive:

• The Essential Handbook for Highly Effective Managers (3rd Edition)
• A comprehensive workbook with structured skill-building exercises
• A notebook specially designed by HEO for leadership insights, reflection, and planning
• Access to live virtual modules facilitated by Tim Nolan, Ed.D.
• Membership in a cohort leadership program that fosters peer learning, accountability, and networking

Invest in Your Growth

If you’re ready to elevate your leadership skills, connect with a network of like-minded leaders, and bring proven strategies back to your team, enrolling in this leadership development program for managers is your next step.

Book your spot today and join a national cohort of managers committed to growth, performance, and engagement. Cost is $1,000 per person which includes all materials with the next class starting on 2/17/26. Choose the premium option that includes monthly coaching sessions where Tim will provide: a leadership assessment with review and implementation opportunities, workbook review with implementation opportunities along with discussion of any challenges that you are experiencing.

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FAQs

What does “open training” mean?

Open training means individual managers can enroll and join our cohort leadership program made up of participants from different organizations.

This format allows you to learn alongside peers from various industries while still receiving the same research-backed frameworks and practical tools used in HEO’s corporate leadership training programs.

Is this program for new managers or experienced leaders?

Both. New managers will walk away with clear structure, expectations, and foundational leadership habits, while experienced leaders refine their communication, coaching, and other leadership skills.

This leadership development program for managers meets you where you are.

What if I’m an individual contributor moving into management?

This program is an excellent fit. Transitioning into management comes with new responsibilities that most professionals aren’t trained for. The Highly Effective Managers Program provides practical tools to help new managers lead confidently from the start.

How large are the cohorts?

We keep each group at a manageable size to encourage discussion, interaction, and meaningful learning.

Will I be learning alongside managers from other industries?

Yes. One of the strengths of our open training is the diversity of perspectives. Participants learn alongside managers from different industries, roles, and organizational sizes, giving them insights they wouldn’t encounter within their own workplace.

What is the time commitment each month?

You will need to set aside approximately three hours per month for this leadership development program for managers. This includes a two-hour live virtual module, along with workbook activities and chapter readings.

Will I have direct access to Tim Nolan, Ed.D.?

Yes. All live sessions are led by Tim Nolan. For those seeking a more personalized experience, a premium option is available that includes monthly one-on-one coaching.

Can organizations enroll multiple managers?

Yes, you can. However, we recommend enrolling your team for our Leadership Training Program for Managers, which allows training to be tailored to your organization’s specific goals. Contact HEO to schedule a demonstration and explore the best option for your team.