By Sandra Bailie from NICVA
Published on 18 Aug 2006
The Making Your Mark II conference in the Ramada Hotel Belfast, left everyone feeling energised and motivated to make a difference in their communities and organisations.
The day started with a tasty breakfast and a chance for people to network and catch up with fellow participants on the management development programme. There was also an opportunity to visit the exhibition stands and find out more about Community NI, NICVA, the Management and Leadership Network, WEA, EGSA and Investors in People.
Seamus McAleavey welcomed the 170 delegates and introduced what proved to be a stimulating and enjoyable programme. Watt Nicoll then got the conference off to an energetic start with anecdotes to motivate the audience to believe that they “could achieve anything they want”. His entertaining speech urged everyone to embrace change and recognise that “the first step will always be the most uncomfortable”
Angela Peacock’s presentation explored the leadership issues that make the difference between success and failure. She challenged the audience to raise its game as leaders in the voluntary and community sector by 1. Being aware, 2. Being strong and 3. Spotting the resistance. Her powerful presentation emphasised the importance of energy in leadership and demonstrated that “people want to follow leaders who are real”.
Suitably inspired, the delegates enjoyed a relaxed lunch and an opportunity to discuss some of the issues. Many commented that although both presentations were very different in style they both made them take a fresh look at their own motivation and how they lead in their organisations. After lunch five workshops gave practical insights into how we can become more effective as individuals and organisations.
- Watt Nicoll’s workshop looked at character analysis and how this can help in working with teams and improving staff relationships.
- Angela Peacock presented a useful tool to help managers challenge the culture of their organisations.
- Anne Fegan’s workshop introduced Edward deBono’s Six Thinking Hats, a great tool to make meetings more focused and productive.
- Billy Dixon gave advice on self presentation and an opportunity for participants to reflect on their personal styles and actions.
- Franklin Covey’s Paula Weir revealed theSeven Habits of Highly Effective People. Participants reflected on their circles of influence and what to focus their energy on.
Seamus McAleavey brought the conference to a close by thanking the speakers and facilitators, and stressed the value of strong leadership in this time of change in the voluntary and community sector. There was a real buzz as delegates talked about what they had learnt and how they had enjoyed the day.
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