Our services
Leadership for the future - action learning sets
What are action learning sets?
The programme of action learning sets are designed to support the development of business in our region by facilitating small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to address the organisational challenges that they face. Action learning involves working on real problems and developing and implementing solutions to those problems.
These events are run as small discussion groups facilitated by CBM staff. Participants share their ideas and experiences to find innovative solutions through their discussions. CBM staff are there to provide ideas to stimulate discussion in the areas of innovative marketing, efficient management of resources, making the most of networks and partnerships, and improved mentoring.
The sets are run throughout the year and the groups normally meet on four occasions from 6-9pm.
How do action learning sets work?
Action learning brings together small groups of participants to
- work on and through organisational/individual issues
- work on real problems - situations in which 'I am part of the problem and the problem is part of me'
- work together to check individual perceptions, clarify and render more manageable the issue and explore alternatives for action
- take action in the light of new insight and begin to change the situation, then bring an account of the consequences back to the group for further shared reflection
- focus on learning, not only about the issue being tackled but also on what is being learned about oneself. This is essential for developed understanding to be transferred to other situations.
- be aware of group processes and develop effective ways of working together
- provide the balance of support and challenge that enables each person to manage themselves and others more effectively
What can action learning sets offer you?
- the opportunity to address a range of organisational issues relevant to you including
- human resources
- employee morale
- marketing
- managing supply chains
- organisational culture
- coaching
- the opportunity to give feedback
- refreshments and a buffet at all of the sessions
What we expect from you
- attend throughout the programme
- have a commitment to the process and each other
- work with the facilitator and the group members
- have an open mind
- ask each other questions
- Chatham House Rule*
- provide feedback at the end of the sessions via a questionnaire and/or focus group
*'When a meeting, or part thereof, is held under the Chatham House Rule, participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed'.
For more information about our leadership for the future programmes please contact Sarai Barton.
