Promoting Workforce Development and Employee Satisfaction during Budget Shortfalls: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health New Supervisor Development Program

Background/Purpose: In 2008, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Organizational Development and Training designed, implemented and continues to manage a comprehensive six-month New Supervisor Development Program (NSDP). The purpose is to establish an effective, comprehensive orientation program for new supervisors to increase retention, job satisfaction, and productivity for themselves and their direct reports. The NSDP provides supervisory and leadership skills, peer support, and pertinent County policy and human resources information that enable supervisors to function effectively in building a productive work environment. Participation in the NSDP makes employees feel valued and important when raises and promotional opportunities decline as budgets shrink.

Methods: Supervisors participate in 23 in-class Human Resources and Leadership development courses as a cohort. Program evaluation is performed by quantitative data collection at baseline, post-program, and 6-months; and qualitative data collection during in-class evaluations and focus groups.

Results/Outcome: Seventy-four supervisors from three cohorts have participated in the NSDP. At least six supervisors had employees who were also participants. Supervisors reported satisfaction with opportunities to network and collaborate with supervisors and executive staff from other programs within the department, greater preparedness as a supervisor, readiness to promote, willingness to stay with the department, and satisfaction with their jobs and additional training and professional development opportunities.

Conclusion: Preliminary analysis shows supervisors feel valued and honored having been in the NSDP because the County has invested time and money into their professional development. Long-term evaluation is needed to determine the program's overall success and effectiveness.