Programme for Line Managers of Graduate Colleagues
Line managers play a critical role in shaping a graduate’s early experience at work. This training programme equips them with the tools, confidence and mindset to support new graduates as they transition from study to the workplace.
It’s practical, relevant and designed for busy managers who want to get the best out of their new starters while still meeting team goals.
Why It Matters
Graduates arrive with fresh thinking and strong potential—but they need the right support to settle in, grow their skills and make an impact. When line managers are confident in how to guide that development, everyone benefits. Retention improves, productivity rises, and graduates feel part of the team from day one.
Who It’s For
- Managers with new or recent graduate hires
- Team leaders supporting early career employees
- Departments running graduate schemes or apprenticeships
What’s Covered
Understanding Graduate Transitions
- What graduates typically need in their first 6–12 months
- Common challenges and how to spot them
- Bridging the gap between university and work
Building the Right Environment
- Creating clarity without micromanaging
- Encouraging independence while offering support
- Setting expectations and building trust
Effective Feedback and Coaching
- Giving clear, constructive feedback
- Coaching techniques for early career employees
- Helping graduates reflect and grow
Managing Confidence and Motivation
- Supporting resilience in a new environment
- Understanding generational differences in communication and workstyle
- Recognising and responding to dips in confidence
Development Planning
- Helping graduates take ownership of their growth
- Spotting learning moments in everyday work
- Aligning graduate development with team goals
Format
The programme is flexible. It can be delivered as a half-day session, a full-day workshop or a short series, online or in person. All sessions include discussion, real-world examples, and practical tools line managers can use straight away.
Outcomes
- Managers more confident in supporting graduate team members
- Graduates better integrated and more productive, sooner
- Stronger retention of early career talent
- A more consistent experience for graduates across teams
Let’s Talk
If you’re running a graduate programme or welcoming new early career staff into your teams, we can help line managers give them the best start. Contact us to chat about the right approach for your organisation.
