Delivered in a cohort-based format, each group includes approximately 25 managers who supervise at least one full-time direct report. This structure encourages collaboration, peer learning and shared problem-solving.

The program consists of six modules that blend self-awareness, communication, and practical HR knowledge. Early sessions focus on understanding yourself as a leader and strengthening communication, while later modules provide hands-on guidance for navigating key HR processes and real-world management scenarios.

1. Program Overview and Introduction to CliftonStrengths
   Identify the characteristics of a Brown Manager. Gain increased self-awareness of your strengths.
2. Communication with Clarity
   Apply powerful communication and conversation skills and strategies to facilitate meaningful interactions in various work modalities.
3. Learning, Development & Engagement
   Leverage Learning, Development & Engagement for employee growth and retention. Manage performance through quality feedback and coaching.
4. Compensation Services
   Assess organizational structure before filling a vacancy. Write an effective job description. Learn about the job audit process and other compensation policies and procedures.
5. Talent Acquisition and Employment Services
   Learn best practices and policies for hiring and onboarding talent.
6. Employee and Labor Relations & Benefits
   Learn how to manage employees and solve performance issues, while also promoting usage of Brown's benefit programs.

At Brown University, the manager's journey is a comprehensive experience that nurtures growth, fosters excellence, and bridges the overlap between managing and leading. It begins with foundational onboarding, compliance and role-based training, establishing a solid grasp of university policies, the bedrock of effective management.

Management Essentials helps you become a more self-aware, confident and effective manager. Through the program, you will:

• Gain insight into your strengths using the CliftonStrengths assessment

• Strengthen communication skills for both remote and in-person work

• Build confidence in handling difficult conversations

• Learn practical approaches to delegation, feedback and conflict resolution

• Apply HR policies and processes through real-world scenarios and conflict resolution
• Receive ongoing learning recommendations tailored to your development

Upon completion, participants earn a digital badge via Credly, which can be shared on LinkedIn and other platforms.

Who can participate:

Managers who supervise at least one full-time direct report.

Participant expectations:

• Complete the CliftonStrengths assessment prior to the program

• Dedicate 15–20 minutes to pre-work before each session

• Engage in self-paced learning opportunities beyond the sessions

Register for a cohort through Workday. Participants are expected to attend all sessions within their selected cohort. If your schedule changes, please enroll in a future offering to allow others the opportunity to participate.

Important Details:

• Registration closes 10 business days before the first session
• CliftonStrengths assessment and assigned pre-work instructions will be sent via email a few weeks prior to the start date

Upcoming Cohorts:

• March 5, 2026 - April 30, 2026 (In-Person Weekly Series), 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Classes will meet on: March 5, March 12, March 19, April 16, April 23 and April 30
• April 15, 2026 - May 20, 2026 (Virtual Weekly Series), 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Classes will meet on: April 15, April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13 and May 20

Graduates of Management Essentials are encouraged to continue their development through CliftonStrengths for Managers, an advanced program focused on applying strengths-based leadership in practice.

Participants will:

• Deepen their understanding of their own strengths
• Learn how to manage and coach others based on strengths
• Build a strengths-based team culture

The program includes two virtual sessions and an optional team retreat that managers can facilitate independently with their teams.

To participate, managers will invite their team members to complete the CliftonStrengths assessment. For pricing and details, contact ldeteam@brown.edu.

Enroll in the program