Those who have completed the Empowerment Skills for Leaders course, like frontline workers, have much to say about their experiences. In their own words, here are  perspectives from leaders in a variety of roles about how FDC training benefited them and their teams. 

It made me see my position as a clinical supervisor in a different light. When I had team staff meetings prior to taking the course (it was) my agenda, what I needed to go over with all the staff. Since I’ve had FDC for Leaders, I’ve been putting the agenda on the staff, saying, what should we talk about this morning? It’s become more inclusive. I think more of the staff are enjoying being at the staff meetings, being able to participate more.

It increased my self-awareness, because some pieces of FDC for Leaders are self-care and teaching self-care to staff, because we tend to forget it. We do it more for the staff than we do for ourselves.

This course has helped me to be more reflective in my interactions with others. It has encouraged me to reflect on how I interact with others and to reflect on what causes others to act/interact the way they do. This course has also given me the strength to be a better leader and manager, and to delegate more to staff. It also has encouraged me to be more organized in my work and to have more ownership over all aspects of the program.

Having completed the Family Development Credential training (for workers) in the past, I recognize the significance of operating from a “power with” approach when working with families. Now, I am fully aware that the same approach should be applied when working with my staff, promoting an equitable workplace where everyone is seen, respected, and valued.

The FDC for Leaders training helped me to develop the ability to influence and motivate others to contribute to organizational success by asking for their opinions, leveraging their strengths and skills, and maintaining an individual approach when solving issues… With FDC for Leaders I have gained confidence in my role, maintained clear and open communication, and offered clear direction. I know my team, their challenges and strengths, and I am here with them to solve problems and achieve outcomes. This course has been a rich learning opportunity.