Learning the Ropes of Leadership

21 November 2018 — Students from the Diploma in Applied Management Level 7 were treated to an early breakfast meeting hosted by Westpac this week, to learn about How to become a better coach in the workplace – and why it’s a critical skill to develop. 

At this event, students had the opportunity attend an interactive session by award winning leadership blogger and executive coach, Suzi McAlpine where they learnt about practical tips and tools on how to develop their coaching skills, which is a cornerstone of skilled leadership.  They also got the chance to network with member of CIPS, the professional body of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (and potential employers).

Developing leadership and influencing skills is key to procurement and project management and attendees were able to participate in a short role play on coaching. As Suzi points out, research has shown that a pivotal skill in the 21^st century executive is the ability to coach. Regardless of whether you have the title “boss” or not, every person in an organisation can lead – and therefore coach. When it comes to dealing with colleagues, leading cross functional team projects, being a subject matter expert or a manager, coaching is a key tool for effectiveness.

Tutor Liz McGill said, “This was a good opportunity to reinforce work we are currently undertaking in the class on applied leadership skills and corporate cultures and their relevance to the supply chain and influence on project management outcomes; a discussion we will continue in the coming weeks.”