‘Go Where the Work Is Being Done,’ and Other Lessons for Emerging Leaders
Recently, a trade organization gave me the opportunity to be an instructor in their Management Development Academy. The area I covered for these emerging leaders focused on the behaviors and skills required to create a company culture where engaged, empowered people thrive.
Participants learned and practiced four foundational skills for effective people-centric leadership: knowing your “why,” setting clear priorities, engaging team members and implementing change.
We used experiential techniques to drive personal development. Participants learned how to deploy a problem-solving method to set goals and implement change, and practiced coaching techniques that complemented their individual strengths and removed obstacles to reaching goals. The class wrapped up with a gratitude exercise and ways to celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of the team.
I was impressed with this engaged group of leaders. They were eager to learn how to make changes to the traditional command-and-control-style management approach, while exploring ways to serve their team. A truly successful small group experience with some “aha” moments!