E-Learning Series - Fall 2010
Dealing With Conflict
September 28 & 29
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
Some level of conflict
is inevitable in all workplaces, including local governments, and different
individuals tolerate (and embrace) conflict in very different ways. In this course
individuals will assess their own approaches to conflict, and will consider whether there are
strategies that can make them more successful. This course will be useful for those
that find workplace conflict very stressful, as well as those that enjoy "spirited" debates,
and will provide tools for those impacted by both direct and indirect (gossip) conflict.
Register Online
Public Consultation in 10 Easy Steps: Planning for Successful Public Engagement
October 5 & 6
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
In order to be
successful, planning needs to inform, involve or engage stakeholders at the outset. When
done right, programs can move forward on time and on schedule. When done wrong, it
can mean a drain on resources, damaged relationships and even damaged reputations.
This engaging session will elevate your understanding of public consultation and
provide you with a step-by-step guide to apply effective consultation planning in your
organization.
Register OnlineSupervisory & Management Effectiveness
October 19 & 20
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
Supervisory and management skills
are important in many positions in an organization. This course will provide
attendees with an approximately 70 page report after completing an online assessment of their
current strengths and developmental opportunities in 12 distinct management
competencies. During the discussion the group will be discussing the best ways to supervise and manage people and projects
in a rapidly changing environment.
This course will also be of value to those considering stepping up to a supervisory or management position.
Register OnlineThis course will also be of value to those considering stepping up to a supervisory or management position.
Respectful Coaching
November 2 & 3
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
Do you have to
communicate information to others in your organization, either direct reports or
peers? Organizations are expecting employees to coach others in the organization on a
regular basis, and many of those providing guidance to direct reports and peers have not
been trained in the skills this requires. Particular emphasis will be placed on "coaching
without authority", how do we assist peers when the individual doesn't report
directly to us? Attendees will have the opportunity to complete an online assessment of their
personal coaching skills, and will receive tools to plan for difficult conversations.
Register OnlineSix Simple Steps to Spread the Word: Communications Planning Made Easy, Effective, & Affordable
November 9 & 10
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
Need to spread the word about your programs and services? These sessions will walk you through a step-by-step planning process to help you effectively communicate your program, service or project. From the general to specific, you will learn how to build a simple communication plan that you can use in your own organization. As an added bonus, this session includes an overview to help demystify the practice of social marketing.
Register OnlineStrategic Planning for Councils & Staff 
November 16 & 17
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time) Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
Local governments are facing the challenge of strategic planning in a changing world. This course will address how to prepare for strategic planning, how to engage Council, staff and key stakeholders, and how to arrive at consensus on the key organizational priorities. Specific attention will be paid to how to manage the strategy so that execution is translated into business planning, and communicating results is easily achieved, even in small organizations. This course is intended for CAOs, elected officials, and those tasked with managing the planning process.
Register OnlineMaking the Most of Your Media Relations
November 23 & 24
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
Working with the media is key to spreading the word about your program or service. This interactive and informative workshop is designed to strengthen participants' ability to work proactively with the media, and hone their skills when it comes to responding to media requests. Key points that will be covered include:
• How to work with the media to spread the word
• What to do when the media calls
• How to develop strong, clear and consistent key messages
• How to answer media questions and stay on message
• Some dos and don'ts
• Ongoing discussion and sharing of ideas and experience
• How to develop strong, clear and consistent key messages
• How to answer media questions and stay on message
• Some dos and don'ts
• Ongoing discussion and sharing of ideas and experience
Register Online
Dynamic Communication
November 30 & December 1
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
By obtaining insight into how we communicate we are better able to communicate with key individuals both inside and outside our organization. This session will discuss team dynamics, and the unique benefits of different communication styles. Attendees will complete an online behavioral styles assessment and receive a 26 page report of their preferred ways of dealing with challenges, people, change and rules.
Our Most Popular Offering!
Register Online"Customer" Service in the Public Sector
December 7 & 8
9:00-10:30 am (Pacific Standard Time)Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services
The unique
challenges of service delivery in the local government sector will be discussed, including
the difficulty of dealing with such a diverse client base. We will discuss whether
private sector "customer service" approaches are relevant in the public sector, and why good
service is critical to both staff and Council success. Participants will complete an
online assessment of their personal skills and abilities in delivering customer service.
Register Online