CE-22PA1001X - LevelUp - University of Cincinnati's Leadership Development Program

Course Description

Program Overview 

The LevelUp Leadership Development program enhances the leadership and teaming skills necessary to excel in today's dynamic business environment. The program is designed by the Carl H. Lindner College of Business, offered through the Warren Bennis Leadership institute, and is grounded in three principles. First, the program is highly experiential, ensuring participants gain practical insights and actionable skills that they can immediately apply. Second, the program takes an evidence-based management approach, ensuring that participants focus on scientifically supported frameworks they can apply to the real world. Third, in our program, we make the most of every minute, delivering only clear, concise, and impactful content. 

Module Descriptions

Strengths-Based Leadership: In the Strengths-Based Leadership module, participants will learn how to identify and leverage their strengths and the strengths of their team members to maximize their well-being and performance. This approach emphasizes building on existing talents rather than focusing solely on areas for improvement. By the end of the workshop, attendees will be equipped to create more engaged and productive teams, aligning each member's strengths with the organization's strategic objectives. Taught by Laurens Steed.

Strategic Thinking: The Strategic Thinking module teaches participants how to plan for the future. Through several interactive and experiential activities, attendees are introduced to frameworks that allow them to understand market trends and the broader business environment. participants become forward-thinking leaders who can navigate the complexities of the evolving business environment. Taught by Chris Sutter.

Creativity and Innovation: In the Creativity and Innovation module, participants will explore techniques for thinking outside conventional boundaries to solve complex problems. This workshop highlights the importance of fostering a culture of creative risk-taking and innovation. Attendees will engage in creativity and innovation challenges to practice these skills. By the end of the module, participants will be equipped with frameworks that will allow them to unleash their potential for creativity and innovation. Taught by Chris Sutter.

The Art of Influence: The Art of Influence module delves into the strategic use of influence to shape outcomes and behaviors within an organization. Participants will learn to employ a variety of influence tactics effectively. Through role-playing scenarios, attendees will enhance their ability to drive alignment and action within their teams. Taught by Eli Awtrey. 

Managing Relationships: The Managing Relationships module focuses on understanding the unique motivations, preferences, and behaviors of individuals to build trust and rapport. Participants will learn personalized leadership techniques that enhance communication, problem-solving, and managing conflict. Interactive activities and discussions will help attendees develop skills to manage one-on-one relationships effectively, fostering a more collaborative and supportive work environment. Taught by Eli Awtrey.

Executive Presence: The Executive Presence module teaches participants how to conduct themselves, communicate, and project confidence and clarity in their vision. This workshop addresses the importance of body language, speech, and appearance in making a strong impression. Through exercises and feedback sessions, attendees will develop a professional presence that enhances their likelihood of emerging as a leader. Taught by David Romp.

Negotiation: In the Negotiation module, participants will learn techniques for achieving favorable outcomes while maintaining positive relationships with partners, suppliers, and stakeholders. The workshop covers preparation, active listening, and finding win-win solutions. Attendees will practice negotiation skills through simulations and role-playing exercises, equipping them with evidence-based approaches to securing advantageous agreements. Taught by Laurens Steed.

Communication: The Business Communication module is designed to enhance participants' ability to convey ideas, information, and messages effectively in a professional setting. This workshop covers essential communication skills, including verbal, non-verbal, and written communication, with a focus on clarity, conciseness, and impact. Taught by David Romp.

Collaboration: The Collaboration module explores best practices for ensuring team effectiveness. Participants will learn strategies for fostering collaboration through information sharing, psychological safety, and perspective-taking. Through simulations and team-building exercises, attendees will learn how to contribute to a culture of high-quality teaming. Taught by Scott Dust.

Decision-Making: The Decision-Making module addresses evidence-based best practices for making high-quality decisions in business settings. Participants will learn frameworks and tools for making complex decisions, including risk assessment and scenario planning. The workshop includes simulations and decision-making exercises, helping attendees navigate uncertainties and enhance their decision-making skills. Taught by Scott Dust.

Change Management: In the Change Management module, participants will learn strategies for guiding their organizations through transitions. The workshop covers managing resistance to change, communicating change effectively, and ensuring the success of change initiatives. Through case studies and interactive discussions, attendees will develop the skills needed to lead their teams through structural, cultural, and process changes with minimal disruption. Taught by Eli Awtrey

Cultural Competence: The Cultural Competence module focuses on understanding and navigating the complexities of working in a culturally diverse environment. Participants will learn how to work in cross-cultural teams, communicate effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, and adapt their approaches to embrace diversity. This workshop emphasizes the importance of respecting, leveraging, and integrating diverse perspectives and practices to ensure organizational coherence and effectiveness. By fostering cultural awareness, individuals can create inclusive work environments that value and integrate diverse perspectives. Taught by Chris Sutter. 

Course Outline