Workshop Teaches Management Skills

"New managers are often asked to fill supervisory positions without any formal training or guidance. As a result, they are required to develop a managerial style based on their own personalities and personal theories about what is appropriate behaviour," says Geri Reamer, business instructor at Malaspina University-College in Nanaimo.

"Such a 'sink or swim' philosophy increases the likelihood that supervisors and administrators will make basic errors while attempting to become effective managers," she said.

This fall, Reamer will be teaching a 12-day workshop in Management Skills which addresses the basic errors managers can make; it will also provide practical "how to" tools to deal with work situations effectively.

"Through experiential, hands-on techniques, participants develop skills and competencies in three key areas--interpersonal communication, teamwork, and administration," said Reamer. "We'll teach them how to maximize the potential of self and others, and how to break out of unproductive behavioural patterns."

Paula Bernard, from Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, is a recent graduate of the program.

"I had been a supervisor for over a year and wanted to learn how to be more effective and how to relate better to my staff," said Bernard. "The skills we learned were practical and immediately applicable to what was happening at work. The course gave me insight as to why people do the things they do. It's a really effective way to learn how to be a better supervisor," she said.

The Management Skills' workshop is offered in three parts, of four days each. Part I takes place October 22, 23, 29, 30; Part II is set for November 12, 13, 19, 20; Part III is slated for December 3, 4, 10, 11.

Upon completion of the total program, participants receive a recognized Certificate in Management Skills, credit of which may be used towards certificate, diploma and degree programs at Malaspina.