Many organisations promote top performers into managerial roles without efficient training in leadership or coaching, creating “accidental managers.” These employees are thrust into roles that involve people management without the necessary managerial skills. meaning that despite having the technical expertise, these managers struggle to effectively manage and lead their teams.
Common pathways to becoming an ‘Accidental Manager’
- Technical stars get promoted based on expertise, not aptitude for leadership.
- Sudden vacancies lead to interim promotions without proper onboarding.
- Growing teams demand new supervisors but lack structured hiring.
- Startup dynamics push early employees into leadership roles without frameworks.
The impact on business health
- Poor staff engagement & retention: Without coaching, conflict-resolution ability, or motivation, teams rapidly disengage.
- Inconsistent performance: Mismanaged goals and undefined roles create productivity drops.
- Damaged organisational culture: Low-trust environments breed gossip and tension.
- Stalled leadership pipeline: Without formal development, teams lack future-ready leaders.
- Compliance & risk exposure: Untrained managers may mishandle HR, performance, and legal procedures.
First Intuition’s Digital Leadership & Management programmes are designed to help tackle accidental managers and rescue businesses from their pitfalls at individual, team, and organisational levels.
Course overview:
How it solves the problem
- Tackles key skill gaps: coaching, performance reviews, motivation, delegation, and feedback
- Provides formal leadership frameworks, replacing guesswork with tested strategies
- Utilises blended learning and real-world projects—ideal for working managers
- Offers professional recognition (e.g., CMI qualification), enhancing credibility and internal structure
Course highlights & benefits
Here is how First Intuition’s training combats accidental management through practical tools for behavioural change and structured leadership:
| Course Feature | Outcomes |
| Coaching & Mentoring | Empowers managers to support their teams effectively |
| Performance Management | Ensures consistent processes and fairness |
| Leadership Styles | Introduces strategic thinking versus reactive behaviours |
| Digital Tools | Supports remote and hybrid team leadership |
| Recognised Certification | Validated skills build organisational confidence |
By opting for the Digital Leadership & Management or 12-month Leadership & Management course, organisations can:
- Elevate team performance through structured leadership
- Stop productivity losses from disengaged or poorly managed staff
- Build internal leadership pipelines with real succession planning
Find more information about First Intuition’s digital, leadership, and management courses here.