Course Outcomes

This web-based communication styles training course will:

  • Outline actions organizations should take before adopting a matrix structure.
  • Share the characteristics and behaviors successful managers and individuals exhibit on matrix teams.
  • Suggest the types of meetings people on matrix teams should add to their regular communication.
  • Provide a list of information managers should provide to their teams and questions they should ask to stay informed.
  • Offer best practices for negotiating on behalf of the direct reports.

Course Overview

This short course is designed for people who will manage or currently manage teams in a matrix structure. The program discusses best practices to follow before adopting the structure and characteristics that tip the scales toward success for people operating in this environment. Additionally, the course identifies the types of meetings managers may wish to hold, information they should share and solicit, and skills for negotiating on behalf of their team members.

Program Objectives

At this program’s conclusion, participants should be able to:

  • Explain best practices for transitioning to a matrix organization.
  • Outline the characteristics individual contributors and managers need to succeed in a matrix environment.
  • Identify meetings and other touchpoints that will help project and people managers move the organization forward.
  • Discuss the information managers should share and questions they should ask the people they manage.
  • Describe how managers should negotiate on behalf of and advocate for their reports.

Program Modules

  • Ready, Set, Go: Implementing a Matrix Structure
  • The Right Ingredients: Understanding What People Need to Succeed in the Matrix
  • Meetings Meetings: Planning Deliberate Interactions
  • Statements and Questions: Knowing What to Tell and Ask
  • Let’s Negotiate: Advocating for Your People

By the conclusion of this program for managers working with matrix teams, participants should have the information they need to improve communication, productivity, and outcomes in this dynamic environment.