OVERVIEW

Leadership Essentials is a six-month leadership development program designed for younger professionals who are considered rising stars and who have expressed a personal desire to be engaged in community service.  Participants are typically under 40 years old.

Those accepted into Leadership Essentials have exhibited strong leadership capabilities and an entrepreneurial spirit, but may not have had formal leadership skills training. Leadership Essentials addresses this critical gap between formal education and senior-level experience, by delivering practical skills that emerging leaders can apply to today's dynamic business world.

Leadership Essentials is comprised of three components:

• Skill Building: Training sessions offer practical skill training, giving participants the critical background necessary for effective leadership in your organization and your community. Participants will enhance their proficiency in leading teams to excellence, building collaborative relationships and networks, navigating organizational change and its subsequent potential for conflict. They will learn the characteristics and requirements to be a results-oriented leader in business and in our community.

• Coaching: Participants are paired with an experienced business or community organization coach who provides realistic advice and assistance in personal planning.  This one-on-one relationship focuses on real-world leadership techniques and challenges. Coaches are established leaders in local business and community organizations and many are graduates of Leadership Howard County.

• Community Service Projects: Participants will contribute to a team-based, short-term community service project, designed to help them build relationships, learn from peers, and acquire first-hand experience while making a difference in Howard County.