Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Leadership means different things to different people in different situations. Leaders “lead” by mobilizing and inspiring others to take action on issues or working with others to make a difference. They help others do the right thing and get the job done. Students will identify styles of leadership, recognize qualities that make an effective leader, and reflect on effective and ineffective leaders.

Effective communication is the basis of any successful team or organization. Young people should be able to communicate with confidence, poise and respect in any situation. After completing this module, students will be able to define communication, understand basic personality types and experience active listening to increase their understanding of others.

Effective meetings are no accident. Meetings are carefully thought-out, well-executed events. Students will be engaged in a meaningful discussion about meeting participation and running meetings. A basic knowledge of parliamentary procedure is essential for a leader and anyone serving on a board, council or committee. Students will learn to develop a meeting agenda for an effective meeting and the basics of parliamentary procedure, and gain confidence to serve in a leadership role.

We frequently form an opinion, based on appearances, in less than 30
seconds. Appearances can by physical, verbal or in the form of a cover letter and resume. Although it can change later, an unfavorable impression based on appearance creates a hurdle or roadblock to overcome. Objectives of this module include helping students recognize what is suitable to wear for a job interview, learn the building blocks of a resume and cover letter, and learn tips to prepare for an interview.

Leaders need to know how to navigate professional situations ranging from eating a meal to mingling at a meeting successfully. Students will learn about etiquette and tips to improve socializing skills, create a personal elevator speech and develop an awareness of how “online” life can affect real life.

People do not always agree. The challenge and opportunity for a leader is to learn to manage conflict and channel the energy in a positive way. After completing this module, students will understand conflict is an integral part of making decisions, recognize conflict and learn about its causes, and develop strategies to management conflict.

As the next generation of leaders, young people must know and understand how policies and laws are made in their school organizations and their communities, as well as at the state and national levels. Students will gain an understanding of leadership opportunities available to them and the legislative process, be connected with leadership mentors in the community and explore local government.

Moving a group to action can be challenging, but understanding the steps needed to complete a local mission is important for leaders. Students will learn how to move an idea to action and implement a local project.