LeadershipResourcesGuide

GETTING YOUR COHORT GROUP STARTED Individual Meetings with Each Participant

After the initial leadership development training session at which participants reviewed their EQi self-assessments and have created their SMART action plans, but before the cohort group meets for the first time, each participant should have at an individual meeting with one of his/ her cohort leaders. The purpose of the meeting is to accomplish the following: Debrief the Leadership Development training session and reinforce initial skills that were taught. Review, discuss and “smarten up” the person’s SMART action plans.

Cohort Leader Behaviors: Remember to practice active listening skills while talking with each person (you can find a reminder guide for Active Listening in the Tools section of this Guide): • Paraphrase or reflect both content and feelings so the person knows you are hearing them • Use attentive body language and eye contact • Notice their body language and any non-verbal behaviors that may tell you more about how they are feeling • Ask open-ended questions that deepen the conversation • Use good feedback skills when you believe your observations may offer the person some additional insight with regard to his or her behavior (you can find a reminder guide for Effective Feedback in the Tools section of this Guide)

L  Look interested / get interested I  Involve yourself by responding S  Stay on target T  Test your understanding E  Evaluate the message N  Neutralize your feelings

page 10