Putting Training to Work

CPC’s Certificate Program enabled consultant Judith Light (CMC) to help her long-time client increase employees’ engagement in issues related to the quality of both work and professional development. The client, director of a government audit office, was clear about his vision for the system.  But he realized he could create a more powerful organization using AI rather than making changes in processes and procedures that were disengaged from employees’ hearts and minds. 

Having introduced AI to managers via a one-day meeting focused on organizational culture, procedures and practices, Light helped form a highly energetic and committed 12 person planning team to design nine day-long meetings and a three-day Summit. Using Discovery and Dream to engage staff and attract those most ready to participate in the Summit, the one-day meetings came to be hugely successful events. Never believe the protests that people can’t or won’t be creative!  The energy and enthusiasm resulted in some hysterically funny and authentic expressions of dreams. 

Forty-two participants (25% of the organization) attended the Summit and launched seven initiatives.  Over the next nine months, teams met by teleconference and in one-day face-to-face meetings to finalize implementation plans.  Currently, teams have completed their work and are working toward introduction and implementation to the rest of the organization.

The most powerful outcome for this client was institutionalization of more proactive communication among team members. Every process and point of work now includes opportunities for talking with the people who will do the work or somehow be involved. Upcoming on-site meetings will include facilitated portions and “discovery” about people’s ideas and how teams can work most effectively together on new projects.

The CPC Certificate Program provided Light with basic tools and practices, as well as coaching from senior CPC consultants – all of which helped her client achieve their goals.  You too can join the growing community of positive change practitioners by enrolling in CPC’s Appreciative Inquiry and the Practice of Positive Change Certificate Program.

Submitted June, 2008