An Employee and Supervisory Development Program: Bridging Theory and Practice
Michael S. Chambers

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to present a business case for a comprehensive employee and supervisor development program that can be implemented within organizations. Concerns about newly hired employees who may lack the skills required in a changing work environment are addressed. In addition, this study examines the phenomenon in which employees are promoted into supervisory positions based solely on technical ability and not on the supervisory potential and "soft skills" that are necessary for leading teams and supervising employees. Finally, this study addresses issues related to supervising a diverse workforce and transforming an ad-hoc supervisor and manager training program into a formal program. The implications of the study were that business leaders must continue to invest in employee development during financial crisis to maintain competitive advantage. Recommendations for future qualitative research were made as a result of this study.

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