First Line Management Course
By Dickson Training Ltd
This 2 day course is ideal for Team Leaders and Managers who have had little or no training in the role where they have to lead a team and take on management responsibilities. It will give them confidence and the skills to take decisions and get the best performance from their team. The most popular of our management training courses, the First Line Management course is specifically for people who are new to a management position or who are about to undertake a management position and have had no formal management training. Anyone who is new to a management or supervisory position will benefit from this course. Run over two days, the syllabus of the First Line Management course will cover a wide range of topics to give new or inexperienced managers a firm understanding of the foundations needed to begin their journey as a manager. It includes units on effective communication, managing your team, managing yourself, delegating, setting objectives, effective planning and personal development. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- COURSE SYLLABUS MODULE ONE ROLE ASSESSMENT AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING * Understanding roles and responsibilities * Outline framework of management * Taking the step into management * Identifying personal development needs and planning MODULE TWO EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS * Communicating to be effective - how and what to communicate * Designing effective questioning techniques and listening actively * Non-verbal communication * Dealing with, and responding to, differing communication styles MODULE THREE MANAGING YOURSELF * Use of planning tools and techniques * Dealing with time stealers and interruptions * Learn how to delegate effectively MODULE FOUR MANAGING YOUR TEAM * Understanding different management styles and how to use them * Recognising performance management * Setting expectations and clearly defining roles and responsibilities * Pinpointing performance and motivating your team/individuals * Learning the management actions required to maintain team effectiveness * Team dynamics and looking at individual behaviour within teams -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST LINE MANAGEMENT COURSE Management is the efficient, effective and economic use of resources to achieve results with and through the efforts of other people. Leadership – a definition Inspiring others to follow your lead by creating a compelling vision of the future, whereby targets are not merely achieved, but are surpassed . Leadership – a definition Inspiring others to follow your lead by creating a compelling vision of the future, whereby targets are not merely achieved, but are surpassed . The Role of the First Line Manager as ‘Leader'. First Line Managers have Leadership responsibilities – this is often the biggest challenge for Team Leaders and Supervisors who have to adapt from performing a task to motivating a team. At the beginning of the 21st century, the most powerful sources of growth, employment and wealth creation are found in innovation-driven industries. As a result, organisational leaders face a whole new set of challenges. They have to change and will increasingly need to rely on the knowledge, skills, experience and judgement of all their people. Organisational leaders will need to place less emphasis on traditional structures and control, and concentrate on five key priorities: . Five Key Priorities . * using strategic vision to motivate and inspire * empowering employees at all levels * accumulating and sharing internal knowledge * gathering and integrating external information * challenging the status quo and enabling creativity Using Strategic Vision. Effective leaders will develop a strategic vision that is clear and compelling, and communicate it in a way that gives a real sense of purpose and direction. A powerful vision is clear about direction and objectives, proactive in its approach, but allows room for flexibility about the means of achievement. A powerful vision is important because it is one way of linking the present to a desirable future. The role of strategic planning is then to map out a path to achieve that vision. However, visionary thinking should not be the exclusive province of the organisation's top executives. Successful leaders will encourage participation in the formulation of a strategic vision that offers different perspectives and encourages commitment. It is also important to empower employees with the responsibility and authority to implement the vision. . Empowering Employees. Some people have proposed the view that the great leader is a great servant [2]. Certainly, many organisations believe that an environment based on trust will produce better results than one of rules, regulation and hierarchy. This means that leaders will increasingly have to respond to their employees' needs and take on some unaccustomed roles, such as coach, teacher, information provider, facilitator, listener or supporter. But for empowerment to work, organisations will have to share information and knowledge far more than they have done in the past. This will certainly include First Line Managers . Challenging the status quo and enabling creativity. There are a number of ways in which effective First Line Managers can challenge the status quo and enable creativity: . Facilitate ‘constructive dissent', i.e. encourage people to question openly a manager's perspective without fear of retaliation. An interesting example of this is at Motorola, where employees can file a ‘minority report' and lodge a different point of view to their immediate First Line Manager on a business issue.Foster a culture that encourages risk-taking.Create a sense of urgency by producing a compelling picture of the risks of not changing. To summarise, successful First Line Managers will be those that are proactive both in facilitating organisational learning and encouraging positive adaptation to external changes. . A 2 day First Line Manager Course will accelerate the process for Team Leaders and Supervisors to reach a high level of competence and confidence in the Leadership role they have . -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SAMPLE EXERCISES Our range of bespoke First Line Manager modules works wonders! The course outlines may look as you'd expect - but the content, approach and effect is very much greater than expectations. We have a very large library of innovative exercises that are highly effective in capturing and embedding the learning points in a practical way. Following each exercise - that may be aligned to a 'Financial Theme' - they are debriefed fully and related to how the learning can to be applied back in the work-place. They are also really great fun!! Here are some template modules and sample exercises designed to embed the learning in a motivational and memorable way:- SAMPLE 'ICE-BREAKER' EXERCISE - NUMBER CRUNCH The team must be effectively led and motivated to work as one to reach their objective of visiting each location in a short period of time. Debrief - Leadership and co-ordination, strategy and planning, adapting approach, decision making & control SAMPLE EXERCISE - THROUGH THE HOOP Taking the full team through the 'hoop' within the 'stretching' time limit is likely to exceed the group's own self-limitations. TIME MANAGEMENT SAMPLE EXERCISE - CONES This task requires the team to take a numbered tower of 5 cones from point 'A' to 'B' in a specific order; this will have to meet the criteria outlined in the brief. The option of 'C' is vital to achieve the results. Debrief: * Stepping back for overview * Planning disciplines * Time-budgeting * Skills audit for delegation HANDLING CONFLICT SAMPLE EXERCISE - CAVE RESCUE * Requires that the group make some difficult choices and then hold a press conference to justify their decisions while under scrutiny and criticism. This also displayed some required leadership learning; notably that a unified leadership team is crucial to gain commitment and confidence and also how vital it is to plan for any communication that will involve some sort of conflict. * Handling Conflict and maintaining control in a professional manner are key debriefing points from this exercise. COMMUNICATION, NEGOTIATION & INFLUENCE SAMPLE EXERCISE - RED & WHITE There is a specific time managed agenda and itinerary, which puts the group under pressure. The key challenge is for the sub-groups to maximise the commercial value from the task, however there is always a great danger that the individuals attempt to gain financial progress at the expense of the other group! Debriefing Points: * Engaging the other group to 'buy-in' to collaboration * Commercial consequences when collaboration is lacking or difficult * Effective communication and influence across barriers GLOBAL THINKING & BUSINESS MIND-SET SAMPLE EXERCISE - DRAGON'S DEN The delegation is split into 2 -3 groups - each with a specific product or service to win the Dragons' investment. (A specialised Toy; A unique Team Building Training programme; An eBook Library; An innovative soft-ware package for the Retail Industry Sector. They have to also present to the Dragon's Den their business case for feedback and negotiate with the Dragons to gain either an 'I'm in' or an 'I'm out' reply. Debrief: * Global business potential * Supply Chain appreciation * Commercial framework PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SAMPLE EXERCISE - JUGGLING The group will be asked to set their own team target of how many 'issues' (balls) they can manage at one time. This involves devising a sequence between the group to achieve maximum results without making any mistakes. We introduce different balls which represent different degrees of complexity, challenging the group's preparation and approach to a variety 'team members' needs. Debrief: * How to maintain focus when pressure is applied * Ensuring effective communication * Clarifying the approach for dealing with the unexpected * Setting expectations and reviewing delivery * Treating every team member as an individual PRIORITISATION & ORGANISATION SAMPLE EXERCISE - LABYRINTH This activity requires the group to solve a number of tasks through verbal communication only, but they will be forbidden to write any information down or make any gestures using their hands. They will each be provided with a great deal of different pieces of data that has to be assimilated within an increasingly pressurised time-scale. The material also contains distracting and misleading 'red-herrings'. The task requires delegates to keep focussed on the 'critical path' and be very organised in order to meet the dead-line. Debrief: * Rigour of planning - SMART * Prioritising through ambiguity * Time budgeting * Assigning roles & responsibilities to break down volume of material * The value of keeping accurate records -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IN-HOUSE & CLASSROOM COURSES AVAILABLE ONLINE We have developed an alternative to traditional face-to-face training that continues to provide a full learning experience, and allows delegates to learn effectively whilst self-isolating from home. This is how it looks: Delegates booked on Classroom and In-House courses will continue to have access to their trainer online throughout the days that the course is booked to run. Prior to a delegate's course start date, they will be enrolled on our e-learning platform (in partnership with BCF Group [https://www.thebcfgroup.co.uk/management-training/first-line-manager-course.php]) for the course they are booked on to. They will also be given contact information for their trainer, and details of how to access the online workshops. Delegates will not require any special IT equipment. A desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or a mobile phone with internet and audio capability is all that is required. Delegates taking ILM Qualifications will then proceed to the book review, video review and work based assignments with 12 months tutor support as appropriate, and in line with our previous arrangements. We hope you agree that this blended learning experience represents the safest way to continue supporting our clients and delegates during the Coronavirus disruption. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IN-HOUSE COURSES This is our own management training course which has been developed and refined over the many years we have been providing it to delegates from organisations in virtually every industry. This means that the course syllabus is flexible and can be tailored to the specific requirements of a new first line manager or managers, making it ideal for companies or organisations who require an in-house first line management training course which is attended by a number of current or potential managers. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SCHEDULED COURSES A one day version of this First Line Management course is available as an Open Course delivered at our partner, the BCF's Training suites in Nottingham and Reading from the following scheduled dates... CLASSROOM COURSE - NOTTINGHAM (NG12 4DG) Classroom training courses enable you to benefit from having the tutor and other delegates right there in the room with you. Face-to-face training sessions are one of the best ways to learn, as it is easy to ask questions and have group discussions. Cost: £595 + vat * 16 October 2023 * 09 January 2024 * 11 March 2024 CLASSROOM COURSE - READING (RG41 5QS) Classroom training courses enable you to benefit from having the tutor and other delegates right there in the room with you. Face-to-face training sessions are one of the best ways to learn, as it is easy to ask questions and have group discussions. Cost: £595 + vat * 07 December 2023 * 15 February 2024 * 14 May 2024 ZOOM™ COURSE Attending a course via Zoom videoconferencing gives you all of the benefits of classroom training without the need to leave your home or office. You still benefit from a real tutor facilitating the programme, and the content is exactly the same. Cost: £495 + vat * 11 September 2023 * 04 December 2023 * 13 March 2024 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DICKSON TRAINING LTD Founded in 1985 in Yorkshire, we have built an impressive and loyal client base. Our partnerships are built by consistently delivering outstanding development solutions and working in close collaboration with our clients, resulting in us becoming a leading UK and international training provider.
Ushering The Team Back To The Workplace
By Dickson Training Ltd
Most organisations and businesses are trying to navigate the best way back to a functional working framework. But two things need to happen - 1. The working practices need to be efficient, sustainable and compatible for meeting the demands and needs of the organisation; it’s clients, it’s workforce and it’s Leaders 2. The culture needs to be welcoming, authentic and supportive otherwise there will be disenfranchisement and potentially a churn of staff and loss of talent What has been proven to be a very successful approach to mitigate the dangers of demotivated team members and poor efficiency levels is a bespoke ‘Ushering the Team Back to the Workplace’ workshop. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PROGRAMME OUTLINE Below is a template of an actual Programme that has been delivered very successfully for clients such as the NHS; Claranet; Jotun Paints & Workspace. This, however, can be modified to suit any group or size. It will be designed to reflect the Organisation’s preferred Hybrid working framework and communication systems. The options of having the innovative Real Play technique to help handle delicate conversations is especially effective. The biggest gain is to reconnect the relationships via the activities and exercises, which would be selected carefully. Key commitments and buy-in is always the priority outcomes - which this programme will help deliver in just 1 day. The objectives include: * Making the transition back to working as a collaborative team * Enhancing the Leadership skills of the team * Reviewing/establishing the Hybrid working protocols * Galvanising the Team spirit * Maintain inclusivity among full-time; part-time and Region based team members * Energising and motivational * Fun! EXERCISE – ROUND THE BEND The team are to follow the instructions delivered as they walk (and jump) through the route – always keeping a safe distance apart. The instructions become more complicated as they progress. DEBRIEFING POINTS: * Dealing with Change * Attention to Detail * Adapting approach * Optimising results EXERCISE - NUMBER CRUNCH (3 x Cohorts of 12/13) The team must be effectively led and motivated to work as one unified group to reach their objective of visiting each numbered location within a very tight deadline. DEBRIEFING POINTS: * Support and co-ordination * Strategy and planning * Adapting approach * Optimising results TUTORIAL – TEAM DYNAMICS * Tuckman model * Phases of Development towards Maturity EXERCISE - JUGGLING (3 x Cohorts of 12/13) The group(s) will be invited to optimise the number of ‘clients’ (juggling balls) they can manage at one time. This involves devising a sequence between the group to achieve maximum results without making any mistakes. We introduce different balls which represent different degrees of complexity, challenging the group’s preparation and approach to a variety ‘customers’ needs. DEBRIEFING POINTS: * Ensuring effective communication * Clarifying the approach for dealing with the unexpected * Setting expectations and reviewing delivery * Treating every colleague with care and respect TUTORIAL - EMAIL ETIQUETTE * The primary standards – best practices * ABSURD model * Preparation and planning * Top Tips WORLD CAFE The team are split into 5-6 sub-groups – each with a specific review focus:- * What recommendations do you have to engage the team back into the Workplace? * How do we ensure the framework is efficient? * What are the best ways to optimise team working strategically when most/all team members are in the office? * What potential barriers are there? * How do we accommodate for the Regional team members? * What are the benefits to bringing the team back to the workplace? Each session has 2 – 3 rounds with each table’s ‘host’ sharing feedback for applying to the Team Action Plan – or Charter. DEBRIEFING POINTS: * Each Syndicate’s recommendations and capture the key actions they generate 'REAL PLAY' We offer an innovative solution to bring real Leadership/team scenarios to life. We use actors who improvise scenarios which have been specified by the group. * The group is split the group into 2 sub-groups, one with the Actor, the other with the Trainer. * Each group has a brief and has to instruct their Trainer/Actor on how to approach the scenario supplied. * The Actor and Trainer perform the role play(s) as instructed by their respective teams; however, during the action they can be paused for further recommendations or direction. * The outcome is the responsibility of the team(s) – not the performers Assign 24 x ‘Directors’ (4 for each Player – Phil & Julia – for each Real Play. POTENTIAL REAL PLAY SCENARIOS: * Engaging with a team member as to how the new working plans will be applied. * Overcoming concerns to the new working practices/framework * Addressing issues where a team member feels excluded from the teamworking practices/culture Debrief the Programme Individual Action Plans Team Priorities for application into the workplace
Agile: an introduction (In-House)
By The In House Training Company
Agility has become a prized business attribute. Although Agile methods were once most associated with software development, they are now applied in a host of different areas. Agile continues to find new applications because it is primarily an attitude. This programme delivers a solid grounding in both the Agile mindset and Agile methods. It covers three methods, illustrates the benefits of each and shows how they can be integrated. It includes practical techniques as well as background knowledge. By the end of the session, participants will be able to: * Apply Agile concepts to self-manage their work * Understand the roles people take on in Agile teams * Use a variety of techniques to help deliver customer satisfaction * Focus on delivering against priorities * Employ a range of estimating techniques 1 INTRODUCTION * Overview of the programme * Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 THE BASICS OF AGILE * What makes Agile different * Agile Manifesto and Principles * Using feedback to deliver what is needed 3 AGILE TEAMS * Multi-disciplinary teams * Team size and empowerment * Agile values 4 AGILE AT THE TEAM LEVEL - SCRUM * Scrum roles * Scrum 'events' * Scrum 'artifacts' 5 AGILE FOR TEAMS JUGGLING MULTIPLE DEMANDS - KANBAN * Taking control of the work * Improving throughput * Dealing with bottlenecks 6 AGILE IN PROJECTS - AGILEPM * The phases of an Agile project * Managing change requests * Delivering on time 7 ESTIMATING * T-shirt / Pebble sizing * Yesterday's weather * Planning poker 8 PICK 'N' MIX - SOME USEFUL TECHNIQUES * The daily stand-up * User stories * Retrospectives * Work-in-process limits * Burndown charts * Minimum viable product * A / B testing 9 REVIEW AND ACTION PLANNING * Identify actions to be implemented individually * Conclusion
EA/PA Excellence Workshop Live from London on the 25th of April 2024. Featuring Keynote speaker Reggie Love, former Special Assistant to 44th President of the USA, Barrack Obama. Panel featuring Sophie Chapman, assistant to Steven Bartlett entrepreneur, author, host of the diary of a CEO and youngest ever dragon on BBC's Dragon's Den, Victoria Wratten, CEO of the Executive & Personal Assistants Association. The workshop contains, panel talk, keynote talk and facilitation over key topics from Kate Wood over the course of the day.
