The FDLC team recently attended the Leading Better Summit, the region’s largest one day-leadership event. Surrounded by peers in similar situations as us we joined together to learn more about leadership, communication, collaboration, and more. Check out some of our key takeaways from the event!
Bill
- “Even if you aren’t interested in learning, learning is interested in you.” – Joe Bongiovi, UK Lecturer
Some people may be resistant to learning and professional development because they want to stay in their current role. But that role itself will evolve and require new skills, so learning is still critical.“
- EQ is critical. No matter how much the world changes, you’ll always want to be in the midst of people you like working with.” – Daniel Roth, LinkedIn
Taylor
- “What do you want to be an expert in?” -Justin Patton
This seems like a simple question, but it can really transform the way you think about yourself and what you want to do. This can apply to your personal life and professional career. This question can help push you to keep learning – rather than continuing on with the status quo.
- “What goals are set in vagueness, stay in vagueness.” -Adrian Davis
How often do we set a goal, come back to evaluate if we’ve reached that goal, and it’s unclear? I’ve seen it happen time and time again – and I’m guilty of it, too! But if we are clearly communicating goals and set specific objectives, it will be much easier to track, and hopefully alleviate some of the potential frustration.
Meg
- “Don’t waste your seat at the table.” – Liza Zangari
When you’re invited into a conversation, a meeting, or a decision, it’s for a reason. Your perspective brings value, and staying silent is a missed opportunity to contribute something meaningful.
- “Courageous communications means speaking for what’s right, even when it involves embracing conflict.” – Donald Woolridge Sr.
Standing up for what’s right isn’t always comfortable, but it’s necessary. Courageous communications mean leaning into tension, asking hard questions, and being willing to speak up, even when your voice shakes. That’s how real change starts.
Sean
- “Always assume best intentions”
Getting angry with co-workers or clients for a mistake they made or an inconvenience they caused you is rarely productive. You all share common goals and are on a path toward them together. Frustration only serves to steer even further from the finish line.
- Workforce skill requirements are changing; you should too
What you learned yesterday may not help you tomorrow. In just five years, job skill requirements have shifted by 36%, and by 2030, that number will hit 76%. The willingness to adapt, whether through the use of AI or strengthening of interpersonal skills, is imperative to be successful in a changing workforce.
Connor
- Emotional intelligence may seem simple on paper, but when practiced with intention, it can elevate leadership to the next level.
Everyone is entitled to their emotions and opinions, but effective leaders don’t let those emotions cloud their judgment. Managing your emotions isn’t always easy, but those who do are better equipped to navigate complex environments and make more impactful decisions while under stress.
- Bringing the best out in someone isn’t just pushing them to work harder; it’s about seeing their potential and helping them see it as well.
An environment that emphasizes trust, support, communication, and collaboration is where individuals feel most empowered. They feel most recognized and will be more likely to speak up, lean in, or even step out of their comfort zone.