Over 70 short case studies and discussion topics developed from real-life problems raised by junior managers on our courses. All are in neutral settings and cover topics such as: age differences; discrimination; selling one's ideas; dealing with the boss; matching people to jobs; and lack of promotion..

 Now is the Hour

An in-tray exercise aimed at administrative team leaders and managers. Topics explored include: salaries; personnel problems; staff morale; budget variations; setting priorities. Takes around one hour to complete, plus time for post-exercise discussion.

This maze lets managers explore the procedure for dealing effectively with poor performance - without ending up with a justifiable complaint for unfair dismissal. It is set in the Customer Service department of a non-specific organisation and faces managers with the problem of a long-serving member of staff who is frequently absent and whose job performance is sub-standard.

The material covers the basic process and techniques of appraisal interviewing, including performance management interviews. Topics include: preparation needed; structure and style; establishing rapport; questioning and listening skills; giving feedback; solving problems and agreeing action; techniques for specific situations; post interview follow-up. By using role-play exercises, this can easily be extended to a one-day course.