On August 22, 2024, TrainingPros and a leading beauty company were jointly honored with the Silver Brandon Hall Group Award for Best Results of a Learning Program. This prestigious recognition was earned through their collaborative efforts in developing a Leadership Development Program designed to enhance the leadership skills of high-potential individual contributors at the beauty company.

The Need for Leadership Development

As part of the beauty company’s mission to protect and cultivate their world-class culture and talent, their Learning and Leadership Development team identified a need to build an internal pipeline of future leaders. Their goal was to increase internal promotion rates while driving operational excellence. In partnership with TrainingPros, they designed a Leadership Development Program tailored for individual contributors, aiming to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to grow into leadership roles.

Program Design and Implementation

The program, co-developed by TrainingPros instructional design consultants and the beauty company’s Learning and Leadership Development team, was built based on a comprehensive needs analysis. It was delivered as a three-day, virtual instructor-led program (VILT), with each day focusing on a different leadership theme. To ensure maximum engagement and retention, the program incorporated various interactive elements, including breakout sessions, group discussions, gamification, and real-time feedback.

With a focus on fostering relationships and knowledge retention, the program was designed to accommodate up to 30 participants per cohort. Pre-work, in the form of article readings and reflections, prepared participants for the intensive sessions ahead.

Measuring Success with Tangible Results

The program’s success was measured using the Kirkpatrick evaluation model. Participants reported a 96% satisfaction rate, indicating the program’s effectiveness at Level 1 (reaction). Knowledge transfer (Level 2) was assessed through facilitator observations and self-assessments, while application on the job (Level 3) was evaluated through supervisor surveys. Most notably, the company saw a significant increase in internal promotions—jumping from 17.5% to 30%—within a year of the program’s implementation, demonstrating its impact on business outcomes (Level 4). The program also contributed to improved employee retention rates.

This award-winning partnership between TrainingPros and the beauty company showcases the power of targeted leadership development programs in driving tangible results, while nurturing talent and cultivating future leaders.