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The Graphic Arts Merchants Association of Australia (GAMAA) recently held its first 2004 Leadership Workshop in Melbourne with participants generating an overwhelmingly positive response. According to GAMAA, the most significant outcome at the end of the three day residential workshop was that participants left with a greater understanding of the role leadership plays in enabling companies, and individuals, to expand their horizons.David Rands, GAMAA president, says, "As our knowledge and understanding of these workshops grows it is clear that what is developing is the opportunity for participants to be exposed to range of management skills and processes that will challenge their working practices and provide them with a way forward in developing strategies for the future".
The workshops are an integral part of GAMAA’s Leadership Programme for 2004 and are developed in conjunction with the Melbourne Business School, a division of the University of Melbourne.
The "Thinking Strategically" workshop explored the ‘Game of Business’ and encouraged the identification of new opportunities outside the normal scope of thinking. Professor Vivek Chaudhri presented models and theories behind business strategy, and this was complemented by Peter Singline, of Brand DNA, who explored "branding", both personal and organisational.
Participants were challenged through invigorating and lively discussions and interactive sessions but perhaps the most consistent comment was that the workshop provided an environment in which to reflect, and explore both personal and corporate goals. Reflection is vital, but often missing in the hectic pace of daily business.
Presenters at the workshop were Peter Singline on marketing and brand strategy; Vivek Chaudhri on economics and business; and Robert Dore and Anni Rowland-Campbell on organisational change.
The structure of the workshop resonated strongly with the group with many commenting that the opportunity to develop ideas and concepts within smaller, breakaway teams, enabled a more vigorous and inspirational discussion at group level.
Another highlight was the opportunity to benefit from the diverse skills base and experiences of those assembled, stimulating ideas and refocusing goals.
Rands says, "The philosophy of ‘action learning’ underlies these workshops, particularly in the combination of theory and practice augmented by aspects of coaching and mentoring. What we aim to do is to help the participants to develop their own confidence in evaluating, implementing and working with change more effectively back in the workplace".
Limited places are now available for the second leadership workshop, "Developing Leadership", to be held from 27 to 29 August in Sydney. For information, contact Pam Fairnington at GAMAA on or or visit www.gamaa.net.au.
