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Continuing Education

ESS 811
Leadership Foundations - Focus on the 3 C'S

Course Outlines
The majority of leaders intend to build resilient organizational cultures with employees who are engaged, motivated, inspired from within not simply going through the motions. This is easier said than done in complex organizational environments with rapidly changing demographics and strategies. The challenge is daunting. Yet, it is also doable for any leader open to greater understanding of self- and others in ways of thinking, learning, interacting, adapting to change and making good decisions. Most cultures in the world agree on one fundamental trait of great leaders: They have charisma - they connect with people through their warmth, sense of purpose, authentic character and genuine support of employees and partners to better their best. They know how to coach teams through complicated decision-making when the answers are not clear. They just don't talk about big ideas, they support action 'on the ground'. As a result employees will go the extra mile for these leaders. Fortunately, contrary to conventional wisdom, leaders are made not born. Those who create and sustain a positive (and realistic) emotional environment despite numerous obstacles typically gain the trust and commitment of employees. Walk in the shoes of employees first, then reason, is the best motto for effective leaders. Backed up by the latest in neuroscience research, this course explores the foundation for inspiring employees to greater performance through the lens of a leader's perceived Charisma, Character and Confidence, all of which affect employee emotions. How these capabilities interact and manifest into specific leader attitudes and actions is the context within which participants examine their own 3C's. Translating these into practice, participants learn why common motivating practices such as recognition, rewards, goal-setting, coaching, and supporting progress are often ineffective as commonly implemented. How to 'change-up' the practices in line with new insights from brain science is presented as a case for participants to resolve. Throughout the course, participants are introduced to and test specific tools and techniques for improving their leadership impact. Self-assessment, peer feedback and coaching opportunities are part of this highly interactive workshop on the fundamentals of leadership regardless of an organization's mission. Current articles and media are integrated into the discussion to facilitate debate and dialogue. They also provide a backdrop to challenge prevailing assumptions about why and how some leaders gain the trust and respect of employees while many others do not.

Prerequisite(s)

  • An email will be sent regarding pre-course work

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