"NOW Is the Time to Reinvent Ourselves" with Simon Sinek
With so much change happening around us, this is an amazing time for reinvention and experimentation. So many companies are being forced to adopt the start-up mentality, and so even if we're not in a leadership position, we can be the leaders we wish we had by taking care of the people around us.
ARTICLE OF THE MONTH: "Inspire a Vision" Published in 2020 December APWA Reporter
Have you ever woken up from a dream and instantaneously had all the answers for a clear vision of where to take your organization or team? Neither have I. Yet when we talk about leadership, we know that inspiring a vision is an expectation of an effective leader. So, if we don't dream it, how do we cultivate this trait? In my opinion, it’s about being connected. Maintaining trusted relationships with a broad cross-section of people keeps you informed of different perspectives and aware of gaps or opportunities, and it promotes collaboration and the opportunity to explore new possibilities.
It is clear that through this pandemic, it’s the institutions that have embraced a learning mentality that have fared well during this unusual year. It isn’t surprising that groups with a well-defined, shared vision and leaders who can inspire followers are most successful in meeting their strategic goals even during unprecedented times.
“Use the right tool for the job” is common-sense advice that applies to a wide range of situations. Your employees are only as good as the tools you provide for them to effectively and efficiently do their work. The right tools also provide opportunities for your employees to expand their range of skills and capabilities.
What do I mean by tools? I mean any equipment or resources needed to complete a task. When we think of Public Works Operations, many tools come to mind, but I am pretty sure a computer camera and a microphone might not typically be two of them.
As the T2 Center team has been navigating the world of training during COVID-19, we are finding that some of our trainings, particularly those in the leadership program, translate very well to a virtual platform (I know, we would rather be with you in person too, but for the time being it seems to work well). We are finding, however, that those who have access to computers and the appropriate accessories are being able to more effectively participate in the learning process. If you are allowing them time to participate in the training, we know you want them to make the most out of their experience.
Free Online Course — Simple Steps to an Incredible Year with Mel Robbins
Hey, it’s Mel! I’m SO glad you’re here, and I am so excited about my new course Simple Steps to an Incredible Year.
I created something special for you. It’s 100% free, and I’m giving it to you in honor of the fact that you just survived one of the most challenging years of your life. Between the pandemic, the political environment, the challenges of remote work and distanced learning and how hard it’s been to not be able to see your friends, colleagues and family – you deserve a medal and a simple way to reset your mindset, energy and your vision for the future to something AMAZINGLY positive.
In Case You Missed It: Social Media as Easy as 1,2,3 Webinar Video
On January 19th, the T2 Center hosted a virtual webinar, Social Media as Easy as 1,2,3, with special guest Adam Howell, a communication specialist at Cornell Local Roads.
Adam presented the basics of social media and how it can benefit your public works department.
In case you missed it, the video of the webinar is now available for you to view.
"That is one of the tricks of opportunity. It has a sly habit of slipping in by the back door and often comes disguised in the form of misfortune, or temporary defeat."
~ Napoleon Hill
Training Opportunities
We will continue to update the schedule with dates and locations, so check in with us regularly.
Upcoming Transportation Leadership Program (TLP) Classes