- "I know I should have the conversation. I just don't know how to start it."
- "I default to telling them what to do; at least that feels productive."
- 5 of 6 interviewees described a coaching conversation they had recently avoided.
The DEAA Framework
Gamma · Micro-learning
A microlearning resource that introduces new managers to the DEAA framework—Define, Explore, Act, Assess—a repeatable approach for conducting difficult workplace conversations.
Notes for reviewers
- Spanish translation forthcoming.
- Voiceover scripting in progress.
- Designed in Gamma, finalized in Canva.
- Needs analysis
- Scenario-based learning design
- Rapid prototyping in Gamma.app
- Bilingual localization (EN/ES)
- Canva for design finalization
Problem
Newly promoted managers were avoiding difficult coaching conversations, defaulting to either silence or directive feedback. No training existed for preparing newly-hired or promoted managers for engaging in productive conversations with the employees they supervise.
Audience
This micro-learning was built for newly hired or promoted managers who struggle to conduct difficult conversations with the employees they supervise.
Analysis
At present, managers who avoid difficult conversations create a poorly trained or uncoordinated work force. Likewise, managers who dictate rather than collaborate with their employees risk creating a hostile work environment. Both of these practices waste company time and result in high employee turnover. By completing this training, managers will know boss to instead promote a coordinated and collaborative team that trusts their superiors to want them to succeed.
Findings
Show findings4
- "Questions feel slow. Telling is faster."
- Directive responses outnumbered coaching questions 3:1 in role-play transcripts.
- "Give me the actual situation and let me try it."
- "The lecture made sense in the room but evaporated by Monday."
- In pilot walkthroughs, naming the current stage visibly reduced hesitation.
- "Having words for the steps makes it feel less scary."
User stories
- As a new manager, I want a structure I can recall in the moment, so I stop avoiding hard conversations.
- As a manager, I want to practice a realistic scenario before I'm in one, so the approach transfers to real work.
- As an L&D lead, I want managers applying the framework the same week, so training closes the performance gap faster.
Solution
Instead of a lengthy and costly training, managers company-wide were asked to engage in this micro-learning on the DEAA method. The company identified leaders who already utilized the method (according to their supervisees) to mentor and coach new managers. Implementation data and evaluation metrics still outstanding.
Learning objectives
- Identify the four stages of the DEAA coaching framework.
- Distinguish coaching questions from directive statements.
- Apply the DEAA sequence to a realistic team scenario.
Visual style
Storyboards
AI use
I provided the copy. Gamma.app generated the initial design, which was modified by hand and finalized in Canva.
Reflection & next steps
Complete Spanish translation.
Add voiceover narration (en/es) with subtitles.