Clarksdale's Image Industries recently wrapped up a four-week training on organizational leadership with Tammy Graves, who joined Workforce Development Center personnel in April. An eight-week Essential Skills training preceded the leadership class.
The staff dove into practical leadership tools used to build a high-performing team.
"Regardless of one's belief, leadership is the ability to influence a group toward the achievement of goals by using a formal or informal method," Graves explained. Various styles and approaches to leading a group were also discussed.
By taking a personality test, the employees each pinpointed the strong characteristics they display and took a closer look at the traits that could be polished for an efficient and productive workplace.
"The test helped the employees better understand the different aspects of their leadership styles and approaches as it relates to their personality," said Graves.
Incorporating the basics of teamwork, effective communication, reliability, problem-solving, planning, and organization into the curriculum contributed to the company's overarching goals, satisfied customers, quality products, and a reputation of excellence.
Graves, a native of Jackson, Tennessee, sought to bring out the leadership qualities in each of them. The team concluded the training with an assessment in which they were asked to write a poem as a team on leadership and another on the training:
Is leadership with you at birth or can it be learned?
Could it be taught or can it be earned?
Is it a fire inside to help drive you more?
Can you lead from an office, then move to the floor?
Are you leadership quality or leadership poor?
You can be a leader of few, some or none,
But a leader nonetheless, even if it is one.
Leadership ways taught by Ms. Graves
Soaking it in like a sponge in waves
Knowledge is power
So she passes it on
This class is an hour but it will take you so long
Take heed to what she says
It is always the truth
You cannot go wrong
Ms. Graves teaching you
She can only instruct
It's on you to make moves
She gives you the tools
So what are you going to do?
Graves is set to cover more topics, including team building, with the company in subsequent trainings.
The Workforce Development Center coordinates with businesses and industries to provide a training curriculum tailored to the company's needs. Its vast range of services and offerings includes on-the-job skill development, pre-employment skills, and time management.
The Workforce Development Center is an off-campus facility located at 510 Sunbelt Drive in Clarksdale, Mississippi. For more information, contact the Center at (662)627-9139.