The impact of diagnosing skill deficiencies and assessment-based communication training on managerial performance

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate an organizational diagnosis program that (a) commenced with the assessment of managerial communication skills and (b) provided the frame for follow-up training programs. Two groups of managers (N = 96) participated in diagnostic assessment activities to evaluate their communication skills. One group of managers (N = 48) then received follow-up communication skills training based on their assessed performance. Managers participating in communication skills training received significantly higher performance ratings on interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, and productivity over three long-term assessments. Implications of these findings are discussed for corporate training programs and instructional development more generally.