The Value of Learning Seminars

It is easier to build on people’s strengths than to correct their weaknesses.
– Malcolm Pick, National Director of Profiles Asia Pacific

Learning seminars are important for employees of all levels. It provides opportunity for continual growth, allows you to learn more about a specialized topic, and in most cases provides a deeper understanding of yourself. If you are not exactly sure what to expect when attending one, here is a sample breakdown of a recent workshop called “Ensuring Team Effectiveness.”

• Two different sessions are offered; a morning and an afternoon session. You may choose whichever is more convenient for your schedule.
• A few days prior to the seminar, an assessment is sent out for participants to answer. This is one of the assessments that Profiles Asia Pacific offers, and will measure what type of team member role you take predominantly.
• A number of ice breakers help the group of participants get to know each other and a little more about themselves. One ice breaker involved people moving to different parts of the room based on their personality traits. For example, those who are comfortable in leadership positions are asked to move to the left, while those who prefer to focus on family before career are asked to move to the right. Once everyone has found their place, they are told a little about their most probably strengths and weaknesses.
• The seminar itself involves psychological theories and evidence. The presenter gives tips on how to put together effective teams and choose complementary team members.
• Half-way into the 3-hour seminar, participants take a working break and fill out a personality and leadership assessment. Snacks are provided.
• Participants leave the seminar with certificates of participation, and two assessments of themselves as team members. These assessments include recommendations for improvement and are valuable tools for participants moving forward.

Please note that the recap is based on one particular seminar. Expect differences in other equally beneficial seminars.