3 Key Insights to Prepare for What's Next

"Learning and innovation go hand in hand. The arrogance of success is to think that what you did yesterday will be sufficient for tomorrow.” ~ William Pollard

Insight #1 - Keep what's working virtually

Two weeks ago, I facilitated a 25-person, three-day leadership development course for a client using ExperiencePoint's innovation and change management simulations, reimagined for a virtual setting. It was incredibly well received, as we pivoted to doing over Zoom in 11 hours what I had conducted in-person for this client over two full days in years past. This virtual format (and the associated travel cost savings) allowed them to broaden their reach and include many emerging leaders further down in the organization, who would not have been eligible to participate previously. The pent-up demand for these sessions was evident - the 50 total slots for the March and May sessions were filled up in 5 minutes, with a waiting list of 50+ people. Given the positive session evaluations and the speed and scope that we can add new sessions, this is one the client is likely to keep virtual for the foreseeable future. Click on these links to learn more about these virtual innovation and change management simulations.

Insight #2 - Safely gather in person when its critical to success

Last week I facilitated an in-person strategic planning session for a 6-member executive team with full safety precautions in place. This client is at a pivotal point in its growth trajectory and critical discussions and decisions needed to happen as they built their multi-year plan. This group of highly intelligent, highly engaged leaders held strong points of view that all needed to be heard, challenging enough for an in-person session, nearly impossible for a virtual meeting with everyone remote (and likely multi-tasking). They found the two-day session invaluable for clarifying the issues, developing their aligned vision for success, and creating a one-year roadmap to get there (25 flip chart pages later). When it absolutely positively needs face-to-face for a successful outcome, design the session for maximum impact and engage a strong, unbiased facilitator who can ensure all viewpoints are heard and valued. To read more about my customizable strategic planning process, click here.

Insight #3 - Take a both/and mindset

I have been working with a great team of 16 people for over a year now, first in person, then in virtual half-day sessions each quarter. We've taken a unique approach to designing these. First we explore areas of need and interest from the full team, then I co-collaborate with two volunteers to develop the content and the session design. Thus far we have explored Lencioni's model for high-performance teams, built a strong foundation of trust using the Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument, developed virtual facilitation skills, and learned how to have more productive challenging conversations, such as giving and receiving constructive feedback. As the team is soon to grow exponentially, we are now developing a series of virtual and in-person sessions to ensure we maintain the strong positive culture they have been so focused on, while still being inclusive of the many new perspectives soon to be added. For a sample agenda for jump starting your team on the path to high-performance, click here.

If you would like to see other sessions and customized training I have designed and facilitated to meet each team's unique needs and set them up for success in 2021, check out my newsletter archive and Firefly Effect Blog.

I look forward to the opportunity of helping you and your organization prepare now for what's around the corner tomorrow!

Kimberly