Local Training

Management Development Program for Local Government

Current and future municipal and county government managers and supervisors can improve their leadership skills with training that produces measurable results through the Management Development Program. This program focuses on core leadership and management skills, covering topics such as ethics, developing self-awareness, and measuring operational performance.

Brochure >>

Course 3 Class Materials >>

The Management Development Program consists of a three-course series: Core Leadership Skills Part 1, Core Leadership Skills Part 2, and Core Management Skills. A textbook, Developing Management Skills by David A. Whetten and Kim S. Cameron, provides the general framework for discussion. This textbook is designed on a skill development model that includes assessments, analyses, practice, and applications for each major topical area. Instructors use facilitated learning techniques, making active class participation an important course element. Participants are also required to complete surveys and other testing instruments, read text assignments, engage in class activities, and contribute to discussions.

Course 1 - Core Leadership Skills Part 1

8-day format (42 classroom contact hours plus one personal coaching session and assigned outside reading) over a two-month time period

• Content emphasizes the development of self-awareness and personal improvement by focusing on interpersonal skills. Theory looks at leadership, communication (including listening), individual differences, and values.
• Topics: Critical Role of Management Skills; Developing Self-Awareness; Managing Personal Stress; Solving Problems Analytically and Creatively; and Coaching, Counseling and Supportive Communication
• Skill development focuses on personality preferences, supportive communication, problem solving, coaching and counseling, and goal setting. Leadership skills will be enhanced through increased self-awareness.
• Project component involves the development of a comprehensive Personal Improvement Plan.

Course 2 - Core Leadership Skills Part 2

7-day format (42 classroom contact hours plus one day of class project implementation and assigned outside reading) over a two-month time period (NOTE: Part 1 is a prerequisite for Part 2)

• Content focuses on an in-depth study of the theories and practice of group development and dynamics and the impact of different personality styles and needs on group behavior.
• Topics: Power and Influence; Ethics; Motivation; Conflict; and Team and Group Dynamics.
• Skill development focuses on utilizing power effectively, empowering and delegating, managing conflict, and leading effective teams. Leadership skills will be further enhanced through increased understanding of group dynamics.
• Project component involves the class working as a group to plan and implement a community improvement project. This activity should demonstrate skills learned in class. The class also discusses lessons learned from the project that can be applied to their organization.

Course 3 - Core Management Skills

9-day format (42 classroom contact hours plus two personal coaching sessions and assigned outside reading) over a four-month time period

• Content focuses on the core management skills related to process improvement.
• Topics: Measuring Operational Performance; Problem Definition; Information Gathering; and Oral and Written Presentations.
• Skill development focuses on conducting effective interviews, conducting needs assessments, preparing cost analyses, developing a process improvement plan, and effective public speaking.
• Project component involves the development of a written proposal to introduce a positive measurable change in your organization. After receiving upper management approval, implementation of the project proceeds throughout the duration of the class. Project presentation and final written report are required for successful completion of the program. Management skills will be enhanced as participants undertake an organizational process improvement through the initiation, development, implementation, and presentation process.

For registration and cost information on the above classes, or for general information about the MDP program, contact Catherine Bennett.

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