ELEV-MM 012: Taking Initiative

ELEV-MM 012: Taking Initiative

Before we started our first job, we dreamt about what career we wanted to have when we grew up.  We started the journey to find the job we wanted and discovered ways to make it happen.  But finding the dream job is only half the battle.  Once we land the job, we have to figure out ways to not only stay in it, but to excel in it.

Course Core Objectives

Research has consistently demonstrated that when clear goals are associated with learning, it occurs more easily and rapidly. With that in mind, let’s review our goals for today.

At the end of this workshop, participants should be able to:

• Identify what initiative looks like
• Recognize when you can take steps outside the normal
• Build confidence in themselves
• Learn to find opportunities
• Learn good and bad aspects of initiative
• Balance initiative and restraint

Course Competencies:

Module 1: What is Initiative?

Topic A: Definition

Topic B: Benefits, Personal and Professional

Topic C: Why People Do Not Take Initiative

Topic D: Make Initiative a Priority

Module 2: Take a Chance

Topic A: Be Open Minded

Topic B: Be Adaptable

Topic C: Making Decisions

Topic D: Take Responsibility

Module 3: Recognize When You Can Step In

Topic A: Know Your Strengths and Skills

Topic B: Go the Extra Mile

Topic C: Listen Carefully

Topic D: Fill in the Gaps

Module 4: Recognize When You Can Go Outside the Normal

Topic A: Consider Culture and Values Before Acting

Topic B: Is It in the Scope of Your Authority?

Topic C: Communicate Ideas

Topic D: Act on Solutions

Module 5: Weighing the Consequences

Topic A: Ask Questions

Topic B: Risk, Impact, or Cost Analysis

Topic C: Is Authorization Necessary?

Topic D: When Risks Are Too High