Tracks

They were promoted for what they did. Now they need to develop others.

Practice-based programs that prepare new managers for real conversations.

New managers fail at the same things: feedback, conflict, tough conversations. Not because they don't know the theory - because they haven't practiced. We build programs where practice comes first.
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THE CHALLENGE

The gap between IC and manager is wider than a promotion

Your new managers are struggling with conversations they've never had to have:

  • The underperformer who doesn't know they're underperforming
  • The high performer who wants a promotion you can't give
  • The conflict between team members that's dragging everyone down
  • The feedback that needs to be direct without being brutal

They don't need another framework. They need practice. The ability to read a situation, choose an approach, and adapt when it doesn't land the first time.

Our Solution

Manager training that prepares people for reality

New managers face a brutal transition. Yesterday they were experts at the work. Today they're responsible for people doing the work - and nobody taught them how.

We design manager programs around the moments that actually trip people up: the first difficult conversation, the underperformer, the high performer who wants to leave, the peer who became a direct report.

Practice, not theory. Scenarios, not lectures. Because managing people is a performance skill.

Tracks

The flight simulator for business skills
Format

Virtual or in-person facilitated

Best For

Intact teams of 8-30, manager cohorts, emerging leaders

Duration

2-hour to full-day sessions, multi-week programs

Facilitated team programs

Ready-to-run programs for teams. Build essential skills through hands-on learning.

Build skills through lifelike situations before facing them on the job

Learn more ->

What’s included

  • Scenario library based on real manager challenges
  • Live practice with skilled facilitators
  • Peer cohorts for ongoing support
  • Frameworks for feedback, delegation, and coaching
  • 90-day reinforcement to build lasting habits

What changes

  • Managers who address performance issues before they escalate
  • Leaders who give feedback that actually changes behavior
  • Teams with less drama and more productive conflict
  • Reduced escalations to HR and senior leadership
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In practice

See how this approach played out with a real client.

DIG

A redesigned onboarding program featuring gamified learning, interactive challenges, and hands-on kitchen activities - turning orientation from routine HR into culture acceleration.

Explore project

What they say...

Todd

Hansen

Executive Producer - Web Summit
“Cracking the code of designing engaging learning environments is what these guys understand and deliver”

About Wavetable

We design learning experiences that actually change behavior.

Wavetable is an experiential education studio.

We work with leading organizations to create immersive simulations and scenarios that help teams practice high-stakes situations before they face them in real life.

Our approach combines narrative design, learning science, and deep expertise in leadership development.

Trusted by teams at:
amplitude
dig
havas
ey
columbia business school
whalar
sxsw
nyc
the new york times
we
wasserman
amplitude
dig
havas
ey
columbia business school
whalar
sxsw
nyc
the new york times
we

Sound like a fit?

Let's talk. We'll get back to you within 48 hours.

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