Build stronger leadership skills with Talent Development
Introducing Managers Compass, and other leadership opportunities
From: Human Resources
The summer months are a wonderful time to reassess professional development goals, and discover new ways to improve. The Human Resources Talent Development team offers employees opportunities to build stronger leadership skills, whether with the new Managers’ Compass Program for new and emerging supervisors, or Leadership Essentials, available to all faculty and staff.
Managers’ Compass Program improves leadership for new and emerging supervisors
Employees are invited to participate in Managers’ Compass, Virginia Tech's foundational program designed to strengthen the skills of new and early‑career supervisors. The program equips managers with practical tools to supervise people effectively, communicate with clarity, organize work, and navigate university systems with confidence.
Managers’ Compass is delivered through a monthly, interactive cohort model that blends in person learning, partner‑led sessions, and curated online resources. Each session includes minilectures, group discussion, scenario practice, and reflection.
The program is ideal for new or early‑career supervisors, and employees interested in building their management skills. Participants will develop foundational capabilities in:
- Supervising people including delegation, coaching, and performance management
- Communicating effectively and listening well
- Planning work, solving problems, and managing operations
- Understanding university processes, policies, and systems
Graduates leave the program with ready‑to‑use supervisory tools, stronger communication and planning skills, increased confidence navigating university procedures, and a network of peers across campus.
Interested employees need to complete the interest form to participate. For questions or a consultation on readiness, visit the Managers’ Compass website or email vttraining@vt.edu.
Managers’ Compass Community Sessions
Managers’ Compass Community Sessions are interactive, virtual learning workshops open to all employees with supervisory responsibilities, regardless of whether they are participating in the Managers’ Compass Program.
Community Sessions are designed to offer opportunities for professional development, community building for practitioners, and a space to grow Managers’ Compass’ offerings.
The following virtual Community Sessions are held on the first Friday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon via PageUp:
- July 10: Let’s practice having difficult conversations. Registration required.
- Aug. 7: How do I advocate for my team with my supervisor? Registration required.
- Sept. 4: How can I help my team lead from where they are? Registration required.
Please note that this month’s session will be on July 10 due to Independence Day.
Redesigned Leadership Essentials Program is now available
The redesigned Leadership Essentials program is now available to all Virginia Tech faculty and staff.
This updated program replaces the previous five-module format with a streamlined three-module experience built around a cohesive leadership development framework. Each module is self-paced and available online, making it accessible to employees across all roles and levels.
The three modules include:
- Leading Self: Develop self-awareness and initiative to lead from any position, covering topics such as emotional intelligence, growth mindset, and time and energy management.
- Leading Others: Foster inclusive and ethical workplace relationships through exploration of cultural competency, communication styles, advocacy, and allyship.
- Leading Teams: Build collaboration skills and organizational awareness to support team and university goals.
Together, the modules reflect the broader learning ecosystem Talent Development has built to support professional growth at Virginia Tech and connect directly to the Hokie Dozen Leadership Competencies.
To learn more or register for a module, visit the Leadership Essentials website. For questions or accommodation requests, contact Talent Development at vttraining@vt.edu or 540-231-9331.