PayPal Builds New Manager Capabilities with Precision Development
Jan 7, 2025
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Kendra Goldbas, Global Head of Learning & Development at PayPal, discusses the innovative MAPS program designed to build precision leadership skills for new managers. She shares insights on how PayPal rapidly adapted to the pandemic by creating a world-class manager development initiative. The program emphasizes a learn-practice-teach model, with leaders focusing on one major skill for six months. Goldbas highlights the importance of personalized coaching and aligning individual ambitions with business goals to drive team success.
PayPal's MAPS program implements precision skilling, allowing managers to focus on one key competency for tailored development and growth.
The initiative has evolved into a fundamental aspect of onboarding, demonstrating enhanced managerial effectiveness and aligning training with organizational goals.
Deep dives
Transforming Managerial Skills
In the rapidly evolving work environment at PayPal, enhancing managerial skills is crucial for success. The organization focuses on the need for both operational understanding and leadership capabilities among managers to navigate the complexities of remote work. Many managers, particularly those who transitioned from individual contributors, often lacked the necessary skills and resources, which led to a heightened demand for effective training. By establishing a center of excellence for learning, PayPal aims to equip managers with a balanced skill set that encompasses both hard and soft skills, facilitating their growth and effectiveness.
Precision Development Approach
PayPal's MAPS program emphasizes a unique approach to managerial development known as precision skilling. After completing the core aspects of the program, managers select one key area to focus on, allowing for a tailored development experience. They are then paired with an external coach from Growth Space, providing personalized guidance and accountability as they hone that specific skill. This method encourages a deeper understanding and mastery of competencies, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement among managers.
Impact and Future Directions
The positive impact of the MAPS program is evident as it has shifted from being a requested initiative to an expected part of managerial onboarding at PayPal. Improved manager effectiveness scores indicate that the training significantly enhances managerial confidence and capability. As the organization continues to prioritize managerial development, there is a focus on reaching seasoned leaders who seek further learning opportunities. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of collaboration with business leaders to ensure that training meets the current needs of employees and aligns with organizational goals.
How do you build precision leadership skills at scale? Kendra Goldbas, Global Head of Learning & Development at PayPal, describes the world-class new manager development program at PayPal, MAPS (Managing at PayPal Successfully).
During the pandemic PayPal grew rapidly and needed a world-class leadership development program for remote leaders. The MAPS program, which is based on “learn | practice | teach,” builds managerial skills quickly.
The program starts with a 6-week cohort based learning experience covering technical and leadership topics, and then encourages leaders to focus on a six-month precision development journey. By encouraging leaders to focus on “one major skill,” the company creates a high level of accountability and continuous growth.
The company uses Growthspace’s precision development platform to personalize leadership skills across the entire company.