The reality of management teams
Although we refer to executive committees as “management teams,” the evidence clearly shows that very few top-tier teams function as such. Hence the need for a “warts and all” look at how they function. You will have the opportunity to put your own executive committee to the test to determine what your existing strengths are and zero in on areas that are a source of dysfunction.
“Rules of the game”
To get ahead at this level of the game and collaborate effectively with your fellow executives, you first have to have a clearer idea of what the rules are. However, management teams do not operate in quite the same way as non-management teams and are heavily influenced by the CEO’s implicit expectations. You will discover and discuss the practical implications of this situation.
Sources of power
You will get a closer look at the sources of power specific to the members of your leadership team and review when and how to exert this authority. You will also have the opportunity to develop strategies designed to increase your own power within the team.
Influence tactics
To get a project off the ground, you must first ensure your fellow management team members are on board. During this part of the seminar, you will examine various strategies commonly used by top senior executives to sway opinion. Real-life examples will provide food for thought in terms of how and when these strategies should be implemented.
When conflict arises in a management team
It is virtually impossible to be a member of a management team without getting caught up in the tensions inherent in high-level decision-making and the shared responsibility for dealing with complex strategic issues. Ongoing conflicts are a fairly frequent occurrence in these circumstances. You will be shown a tool for analyzing various sources of tension and conflict specific to leadership teams. After all, the very purpose of an executive committee meeting is to spark a “lively” discussion, but it is important to still see eye to eye once you leave the boardroom.
TRAINING APPROACH
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Analysis grid