Education: ToGetHer the Tools and Resources to Advance
“To get the most out of your conference education experience, we suggest taking the Leadership Competency Assessment or Executive Leadership Competency Assessment, and complete your Professional Development Plan prior to selecting your sessions. The LCA or ELCA will help to identify your strengths and weaknesses against the 11 WFF Core Leadership Competencies and provide you suggested areas of focus as you develop a Professional Development Plan. The completion of your PDP will enable you to select courses that will provide the greatest impact in your areas of focus. The LCA, ELCA, and Professional Development Plan tools are free to all members. Take the LCA or ELCA and create your PDP now.
As of March 12, 2010 all changes to educational programming can be made by calling 952-358-2100 or emailing events@womensfoodserviceforum.com. Changes will incur a $175 fee.
Please click on the tabs below to learn more about each track and the educational programming offered within each one.
Emerging Leaders
Emerging Executives
Executives
Emerging Leader Track (Professional and Manager Level)
Educational Overview
Through collaborative, interactive learning, Conference provides Emerging Leaders an opportunity to network with other industry professionals, share inspiration and energy, and gain new skills through competency focused workshops. Participants will have an opportunity to select sessions that focus on the key competencies of Business/Financial Acumen, Communication/Listening, and Initiative. Content is designed and differentiated according to the needs and skills of the emerging leader.
Wednesday, April 7th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Let Your Communication Take Flight
 |
Why are some people more effective when they communicate? Why do they command attention? This program will provide a fresh, fun and memorable way to embrace the four key communication styles that impact effective communication. Using the symbolism and characteristics exhibited by birds, an anchor for the behaviors, expectations, values and motivators of each style will be explored. What type of “bird” are you? You'll be given the opportunity to discover your own dominant communication style, and you'll learn how to identify the birds in your workplace. Learn simple strategies and tactics to tailor your messages and approaches to achieve desired outcomes. Make communication levels soar! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify their personal communication style.
- Describe the characteristics and behaviors of the four styles.
- Recognize an individual’s style through their mannerisms and environment.
- Detect the need to adapt and modify one’s approach to communicate effectively with each style.
- Identify the Listening Spectrum and where communication breakdowns occur.
- Create voice mail messages that resonate with the various styles.
Taking Charge of Your Career
 |
How do successful women in foodservice get the positions they are in? What is the secret to taking charge of your career? Popular WFF workshop leader Marilyn Sherman will give you tools, ideas, and inspiration to take charge of your career -- don’t let your direction in foodservice be left to chance. As always, be prepared to learn, share ideas, and gain valuable insight from other women in foodservice to help you create the path that is right for you. We’ll see you in the frontrow! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Develop an action plan that will enable you to take charge of your career and seek out opportunities and developmental experiences most appropriate to help you achieve your desired goal(s).
- Identify your unique attributes to creatively market yourself in the organization to land special projects.
- Describe how to leverage community service opportunities (and other organizations) to develop your skills outside your company
Profit and Cash (continues through breakout 2)
| This experiential workshop utilizes the Profit and Cash(TM) gaming simulation will help you to better understand essential financial and business concepts and tools, as well as organization-specific financial measures. As business owners, utilizing an interactive team approach, you'll make decisions as a team, track sales, inventory, cash, expenses and loans on actual financial statements in order to drive your company to success or possibly failure. Also, in a closing activity, you will clearly understand the effects of real unplanned costs and sometimes revenue, as you compute you impact on the actual organization’s budgets, income statements and balance sheets! Additionally, you'll identify real cost savings that can actually improve your organization’s profitability! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Provide definitions of financial terms
- Identify key performance ratios
- Explain how financial statements integrate
- Describe the difference between Profit and Cash
- Explain how gross margin can drive decisions, how slow-paying customers can erode your company’s performance, and how suppliers can help or hurt your business
- Identify specific and real ways to improve profitability in the participants’ own organizations
Developing a Tactical Plan
 |
In this session Emerging Leaders have the opportunity to learn from someone who has real-life experience and success in tactical planning. Betsy Myers served as COO of President Obama's campaign. She shares tactical planning tips that she learned in her positions in the Small Business Administration, The White House, and in Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Participants learn the elements of successful tactical planning, including stakeholder collaboration, and communicating how the outcomes of planning link to results. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify elements of a tactical plan.
- Explain the process to identify milestones, set realistic timelines, identify critical human and material resources, stakeholders, etc.
- Describe how outcomes of tactical plans can best be communicated to tie directly to its impact on bottom line performance.
Wednesday, April 7th 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Personal Impact on the Business
 |
This powerful presentation is designed for those responsible for leading people and achieving performance objectives in a fast- paced environment. Learn how to acknowledge and communicate your unique value to the business and challenge preconceptions of yourself and your role as a leader by learning techniques for creating and sharing an authentic vision and a new path of personal development. As a result, your organization benefits from the renewed confidence, trust and self-awareness of an individual who will become better focused on the longer-term needs of the business and your contribution to those goals |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify and reveal their hidden assets that offer significant value to their organization.
- Recognize and articulate how their skillls can positively impact the business.
- Develop a persuasive narrative that confidently and accurately accounts for the importance of their leadership style and its impact in the organization.
Taking Charge of Your Career
|
How do successful women in foodservice get the positions they are in? What is the secret to taking charge of your career? Popular WFF workshop leader Marilyn Sherman will give you tools, ideas, and inspiration to take charge of your career -- don’t let your direction in foodservice be left to chance. As always, be prepared to learn, share ideas, and gain valuable insight from other women in foodservice to help you create the path that is right for you. We’ll see you in the frontrow! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Develop an action plan that will enable you to take charge of your career and seek out opportunities and developmental experiences most appropriate to help you achieve your desired goal(s).
- Identify your unique attributes to better be able to creatively market yourself in the organization to land special projects.
- Describe how to leverage community service opportunities (and other organizations) to develop your skills outside your company
Profit and Cash (continues through breakout 2)
| This experiential workshop utilizes the Profit and Cash(TM) gaming simulation will help you to better understand essential financial and business concepts and tools, as well as organization-specific financial measures. As business owners, utilizing an interactive team approach, you'll make decisions as a team, track sales, inventory, cash, expenses and loans on actual financial statements in order to drive your company to success or possibly failure. Also, in a closing activity, you will clearly understand the effects of real unplanned costs and sometimes revenue, as you compute you impact on the actual organization’s budgets, income statements and balance sheets! Additionally, you'll identify real cost savings that can actually improve your organization’s profitability! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Provide definitions of financial terms
- Identify key performance ratios
- Explain how financial statements integrate
- Describe the difference between Profit and Cash
- Explain how gross margin can drive decisions, how slow-paying customers can erode your company’s performance, and how suppliers can help or hurt your business
- Identify specific and real ways to improve profitability in the participants’ own organizations
Championing Change
 |
In this session, attendees will learn how to think about a change initiative strategically from beginning to end. Understand what is involved in successful change projects and how to anticipate and overcome the challenges that cause more than two-thirds of change initiatives to fail. Particular attention will be devoted to understanding and overcoming human resistance to change. Before we close, we will discuss career implications for women leaders of change and the importance of negotiating conditions for success before embarking on a change effort. The entire session will be framed around a 7-step model of change, based on John Kotter's work. We will cover the important aspects of each of the steps and then focus specifically on overcoming people's resistance to change. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify the steps within the change process and components of each stage.
- Draft a change management framework that teaches how to gain buy-in from others and how to deal with people's reactions to change (and learn ways to overcome those reactions)
- Explain how to effectively influence others to go along with your change ideas
Wednesday, April 7th 4:00 - 5:30 pm
Turning Numbers into Action
 |
As an emerging leader you must have a firm grasp on understanding financial data and performance metrics used by your company. That's simply the entry level expectation. The real secret to success is what you are able to do with this information. Participants in this workshop will utilize their financial acumen to interpret data and develop clear objectives in response to 3 different industry case studies. For example, how does a focus on food cost connect to the marketing team? This workshop will provide the opportunity for thoughtful discussion around the financial connection between departments and how decisions affect the financial health of the entire organization. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Identify key financial data and measures that may be used to create team objectives
- Identify how various financial decisions can positively or negatively impact team objectives
- Explain the connection all departments have to the financial health of the organization
- Improve goal alignment across their organizations.
Personal Impact on the Business
|
This powerful presentation is designed for those responsible for leading people and achieving performance objectives in a fast- paced environment. Learn how to acknowledge and communicate your unique value to the business and challenge preconceptions of yourself and your role as a leader by learning techniques for creating and sharing an authentic vision and a new path of personal development. As a result, your organization benefits from the renewed confidence, trust and self-awareness of an individual who will become better focused on the longer-term needs of the business and your contribution to those goals |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify and reveal their hidden assets that offer significant value to their organization.
- Recognize and articulate how their skillls can positively impact the business.
- Develop a persuasive narrative that confidently and accurately accounts for the importance of their leadership style and its impact in the organization.
Developing a Tactical Plan
|
In this session Emerging Leaders have the opportunity to learn from someone who has real-life experience and success in tactical planning. Betsy Myers served as COO of President Obama's campaign. She shares tactical planning tips that she learned in her positions in the Small Business Administration, The White House, and in Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Participants learn the elements of successful tactical planning, including stakeholder collaboration, and communicating how the outcomes of planning link to results. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify elements of a tactical plan.
- Explain the process to identify milestones, set realistic timelines, identify critical human and material resources, stakeholders, etc.
- Describe how outcomes of tactical plans can best be communicated to tie directly to its impact on bottom line performance.
Elevate Performance - Elevate Results
|
Leaders have the power to choose their response, their personal state and how they communicate with their team. This program focuses on how attitude and personal motivation impacts achieving exceptional outcomes. Participants can expect the following: to be challenged to elevate business results by elevating personal performance; learn techniques and strategies to master personal motivation and explore the importance of the “How Might We?” attitude to achieve exceptional results. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify the attributes of an Exceptional Performer
- Explain how technical skills are important yet mindset is the differentiator.
- Describe how we can access our personal abilities.
- Explain the concept of the Personal State thermometer
- Identify what can take us out of state and why.
- Explore the importance of focusing on outcomes to manage difficult events.
- Identify both empowering and limiting behaviors and beliefs that impact performance.
- Adopt “How Might We” as a tool for elevating performance.
Thursday, April 8th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Body Language: The Hidden Code
 |
In this motivational, upbeat, interactive session, you'll learn how to quickly change attitudes and behaviors of others, while being true to yourself using body language and other non-verbal and verbal cues. Come learn how to connect, establish trust, and deliver your message to build respect and get the results you want. You’ll learn about reading facial and body language, neutralizing the fight or flight response, open and closed body language, synchronizing body language, playing with personal space, mixed messages, and making sure your body, voice tone and words are all congruent. These skills will help you be more effective in connecting, collaborating, communicating, selling, managing, motivating, leading, negotiating and teaching. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Describe what your body language and the body language of others conveys during conversations
- Identify what audio and visual signs from your audience indicate to be able to respond appropriately.
- Identify the most effective verbal and non-verbal cues speakers utilize for desired results.
- Explain how your body language communicates to your audience.
Pre-Sell: The Meeting Before the Meeting
 |
Meetings are a puzzling paradox at the center of every organization. Organizations that can make the leap from painful meetings to productive ones will reap enormous rewards. This session will help participants understand the appropriate type of meeting to fit the expected outcomes and identify the key decision-makers necessary to support expected outcomes. Learning how to lead groups to pool ideas rather than defending the leaders point of view is can be a critical success factor. Participants will understand the benefits of thinking differently to generate ideas while managing the meeting process. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Explain the importance of a pre-sell meeting, and the necessary items to include in an action plan to enable you to achieve your desired outcomes.
- Identify influencers and detractors that impact decision-makers.
- Identify your own influencers and detractors that prevent you from keeping your message on target, and how to overcome them to accomplish your desired goal.
- Explain how to overcome objections.
The Global Economy…It's a Small World
 |
Are your sales up because you’re a great manager or because the global economy is improving? Are your costs rising because your wholesaler is raising prices or because of a drought in Australia? Dr. Bill Conerly will help you connect the dots between the global news and your business, and offer tips on improving profitability in any business cycle. He will explain, in common-sense language, how the economy impacts sales, labor availability, food costs, rent and credit. More importantly, Dr. Conerly will help you see what to do about these economic effects. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Explain the interdependency that exists between all organizations in a global economy.
- Draft proactive responses to potential issues driven by world events.
- Demonstrate strong understanding of market conditions and potential trends.
Elevate Performance - Elevate Results
|
Leaders have the power to choose their response, their personal state and how they communicate with their team. This program focuses on how attitude and personal motivation impacts achieving exceptional outcomes. Participants can expect the following: to be challenged to elevate business results by elevating personal performance; learn techniques and strategies to master personal motivation and explore the importance of the “How Might We?” attitude to achieve exceptional results. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify the attributes of an Exceptional Performer
- Explain how technical skills are important yet mindset is the differentiator.
- Describe how we can access our personal abilities.
- Explain the concept of the Personal State thermometer
- Identify what can take us out of state and why.
- Explore the importance of focusing on outcomes to manage difficult events.
- Identify both empowering and limiting behaviors and beliefs that impact performance.
- Adopt “How Might We” as a tool for elevating performance.
Thursday, April 8th 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Body Language: The Hidden Code
|
In this motivational, upbeat, interactive session, you'll learn how to quickly change attitudes and behaviors of others, while being true to yourself using body language and other non-verbal and verbal cues. Come learn how to connect, establish trust, and deliver your message to build respect and get the results you want. You’ll learn about reading facial and body language, neutralizing the fight or flight response, open and closed body language, synchronizing body language, playing with personal space, mixed messages, and making sure your body, voice tone and words are all congruent. These skills will help you be more effective in connecting, collaborating, communicating, selling, managing, motivating, leading, negotiating and teaching. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Describe what your body language and the body language of others conveys during conversations
- Identify what audio and visual signs from your audience indicate to be able to respond appropriately.
- Identify the most effective verbal and non-verbal cues speakers utilize for desired results.
- Explain how your body language communicates to your audience.
The Global Economy…It's a Small World
|
Are your sales up because you’re a great manager or because the global economy is improving? Are your costs rising because your wholesaler is raising prices or because of a drought in Australia? Dr. Bill Conerly will help you connect the dots between the global news and your business, and offer tips on improving profitability in any business cycle. He will explain, in common-sense language, how the economy impacts sales, labor availability, food costs, rent and credit. More importantly, Dr. Conerly will help you see what to do about these economic effects. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Explain the interdependency that exists between all organizations in a global economy.
- Draft proactive responses to potential issues driven by world events.
- Demonstrate strong understanding of market conditions and potential trends.
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 11:00 am
Quick & Easy Secrets to Eating Better and Saving Time
 |
Learn how to feed yourself and your family, in a quick, easy, wholesome way that will kick up your energy and bond your brood together. Lack of time and meal execution is the biggest enemy to providing a healthy lifestyle. By opening up and getting into the mindset of a Chef/Nutritionist, planning and preparation of a wholesome meal is a snap! This presentation will provide you with the tools and inspiration to create a more effective healthy lifestyle for a modern household that’s always on the go! This also as an opportunity to network with your fellow attendees as you learn by doing so the components of eating better are anchored-in more effectively, with the knowledge and attitude that “Yes, I can do this too!” |
|
|
Smart Women Don't Retire
 |
Many U.S. women will live to be 90 years of age; thanks to a longevity revolution that’s brought us a new phase of healthy life in our 60’s and 70’s. As women, how do we spend these “bonus years” to create meaning in our lives? In a lively presentation that draws on personal insights and research, author Gail Rentsch will share her transition story and discuss several major themes from the book Smart Women Don’t Retire – They Break Free such as recognizing transition triggers, identifying intangible benefits we get from work, trying on new roles, finding new communities…and understanding why our spouses drive us crazy! In addition, hear from a special panel of women who will illustrate key points through their own experience. Attendees will then participate in a structured experiential learning activity to close out the session. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Recognize triggers that say “it’s time for a change”.
- Develop a portfolio of activities that help them define their next step.
- Understand and anticipate the challenges of transition.
- Get excited about the new opportunities that are possible.
- Tap into their WFF network as a resource for their transitions.
Stress, Anxiety, Yoga and Finding Inner Balancing
 |
This fun 2 hour yoga and wellness workshop will be both informative and interactive. The first 45 minutes will focus on ways in which stress and anxiety affect our bodies and our lives. Jennifer Gray, Owner and Founder of Yoga Center of Minneapolis, will tell a personal story that is both humorous and inspirational and will include how she came to Yoga, what it did for her, and how she began a new life as a business owner and mother of three once she found calm and balance in her life. The remaining time will be dedicated Yoga techniques you can incorporate into your everyday life to reduce stress and anxiety – even while at work! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Utilize techniques to de-stress at work and in everyday life.
- Identify when your body is exhibiting reactions to stress and anxiety and how to alleviate those reactions
- Access information and a supplemental handout yoga poses and breath techniques
- Build a plan to bring more balance into your busy life .
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 12:00 am
Volunteer Appreciation Brunch and 2011 Committee Kick-off
- Track: Volunteers
All current volunteers (2009/2010) and new volunteers (2010/2011) are invited to join us for a morning of recognition, welcome and orientation. You won’t want to miss the presentation of the Committee Contributor of the Year Award in recognition of our hardworking volunteers nor the chance to welcome incoming volunteers and take part in the new volunteer year kick off with a special orientation. Don’t forget this is a special chance to network with other enthusiastic WFF volunteers!
Emerging Executive Track (Director and Senior Director Level)
Educational Overview
Conference provides Emerging Executives an opportunity to network with other industry professionals, share best practices, gain new skills and discover specific tools to help elevate their careers to the C-Suite. Participants will have an opportunity to select sessions that focus on the key competencies of Communication and Listening, Building Networks and Risk Taking, incorporating Business & Financial Acumen as appropriate.
Wednesday, April 7th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Tapping into Risk Taking to Innovate and Drive Success
 |
In today’s dynamic marketplace, whether you lead a corporate business unit or your own business, gaining insights from successful women leaders is critical for success. A common de-railer to the C-suite for executive women is the conscious (or unconscious) avoidance of risk. Conversely, strategic risk-taking is the foundation of successful entrepreneurs. Regardless of your career path, risk-taking is a key skill for executives looking to impact their organization through creativity, innovation and an inspired sense of urgency. If you are looking for the “how-tos” of risk taking, this is one session you will not want to miss. We will share real-world applications via examples of women who successfully risked it all in their careers and succeeded through the orchestration of putting people in the right place and intervening only when necessary. |
|
|
Fierce Conversations
 |
We will provide practical tools/templates/techniques throughout an interactive session to set the context for discussing what is considered to be a Fierce Conversation. Learn how to get the elephants on the table and establish a safe environment for discussing uncomfortable topics. Examine the common mistakes in conducting courageous conversations and how to conduct an effective fierce conversation. The session will close by reflecting about your situation and an opportunity to have a fierce conversation. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Define what a “Fierce Conversation” means to you and describe two primary situations in which courageous conversations are needed.
- Making the connection between holding people accountable and conducting Fierce Conversations.
- Get “Elephants” on the table…without breaking the table!
- Understand how to conduct a Fierce Conversation.
Wednesday, April 7th 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Tapping into Risk Taking to Innovate and Drive Success
|
In today’s dynamic marketplace, whether you lead a corporate business unit or your own business, gaining insights from successful women leaders is critical for success. A common de-railer to the C-suite for executive women is the conscious (or unconscious) avoidance of risk. Conversely, strategic risk-taking is the foundation of successful entrepreneurs. Regardless of your career path, risk-taking is a key skill for executives looking to impact their organization through creativity, innovation and an inspired sense of urgency. If you are looking for the “how-tos” of risk taking, this is one session you will not want to miss. We will share real-world applications via examples of women who successfully risked it all in their careers and succeeded through the orchestration of putting people in the right place and intervening only when necessary. |
|
|
Maximizing Your Executive Presence: Polish, Poise and Power
 |
Leverage the power of your personal brand. Executive Presence is the quality an individual projects that communicates confidence and competence. It draws on many factors, including how a person “carries themselves” as well as how they communicate and interact with others-both in person and virtually. This program will explore both the attributes that enhance Executive Presence as well as characteristics that are common detractors. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Explain the elements of Executive Presence
- Define and leverage your PERSONAL BRAND
- Identify what factors contribute to more powerful “Presence?”
Wednesday, April 7th 4:00 - 5:30 pm
Fierce Conversations
|
We will provide practical tools/templates/techniques throughout an interactive session to set the context for discussing what is considered to be a Fierce Conversation. Learn how to get the elephants on the table and establish a safe environment for discussing uncomfortable topics. Examine the common mistakes in conducting courageous conversations and how to conduct an effective fierce conversation. The session will close by reflecting about your situation and an opportunity to have a fierce conversation. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Define what a “Fierce Conversation” means to you and describe two primary situations in which courageous conversations are needed.
- Making the connection between holding people accountable and conducting Fierce Conversations.
- Get “Elephants” on the table…without breaking the table!
- Understand how to conduct a Fierce Conversation.
Maximizing Your Executive Presence: Polish, Poise and Power
|
Leverage the power of your personal brand. Executive Presence is the quality an individual projects that communicates confidence and competence. It draws on many factors, including how a person “carries themselves” as well as how they communicate and interact with others-both in person and virtually. This program will explore both the attributes that enhance Executive Presence as well as characteristics that are common detractors. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Explain the elements of Executive Presence
- Define and leverage your PERSONAL BRAND
- Identify what factors contribute to more powerful “Presence?”
Thursday, April 8th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Winning with Relationship Superiority
 |
How do you bridge the gender barrier and truly build remarkable business relationships? In most cases, guessing and gut instincts are the most likely approaches. Consequently, many women come across as either too pushy or too passive. This program provides practical, useful tools that enable participants to initiate activities that will accelerate growth and relationship expansion. Participants will identify key relationships they need to cultivate and develop an initial relationship plan…allowing them to minimize guesswork and maximize results. Additional topics include:
|
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify and target relationships to invest in and those to disengage from
- Identify relationship stages and dimensions
- Develop a ‘comfort zone’ between gender relationships
- Flex and adapt your style to connect
- Establish a systematic process for advancing relationships
- Build trust in relationships
High Performance Leadership in a World Turned Upside Down
 |
With the current economic turmoil, most organizations have taken actions to rethink markets, revenues and expenses -- freezing hiring, implementing layoffs, postponing new initiatives, cutting costs and putting strategic development on the back burner. A new order of high performance leadership is required. Paralysis in the face of this protracted crisis is extremely dangerous. Winning organizations will figure out how to survive in the near term and take advantage of these uncertain times to accomplish change that is normally difficult or impossible. This highly interactive session will provide a powerful framework that enables leaders to anticipate threats and opportunities and raise the bar on performance, partnering with their business colleagues and teams. You will leave this session with a diagnostic tool to help you manage your career and your organization moving forward. |
|
|
Objectives
Topics covered will include:
- Current thinking about the changes we are facing – what we should expect in the near future, what is likely to be permanent and what is likely to be transient in this new decade;
- How to think clearly and strategically about the leadership roles, responsibilities, and dilemmas;
- A framework for systematically thinking about winning teams for the future;
- A mindset and approach for leading effectively in the face of the whirlwind of events.
Thursday, April 8th 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Winning with Relationship Superiority
|
How do you bridge the gender barrier and truly build remarkable business relationships? In most cases, guessing and gut instincts are the most likely approaches. Consequently, many women come across as either too pushy or too passive. This program extends practical, useful tools that enable participants to initiate activities that will accelerate growth and relationship expansion. Participants will identify key relationships they need to cultivate and develop an initial relationship plan…allowing them to minimize guesswork and maximize results. Additional topics include:
|
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify and target relationships to invest in (and those to disengage from)
- Identify relationship stages and dimensions
- Develop a ‘comfort zone’ between gender relationships
- Flex and adapt your style to connect
- Establish a systematic process for advancing relationships
- Build trust in relationships
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 11:00 am
Quick & Easy Secrets to Eating Better and Saving Time
|
Learn how to feed yourself and your family, in a quick, easy, wholesome way that will kick up your energy and bond your brood together. Lack of time and meal execution is the biggest enemy to providing a healthy lifestyle. By opening up and getting into the mindset of a Chef/Nutritionist, planning and preparation of a wholesome meal is a snap! This presentation will provide you with the tools and inspiration to create a more effective healthy lifestyle for a modern household that’s always on the go! This also as an opportunity to network with your fellow attendees as you learn by doing so the components of eating better are anchored-in more effectively, with the knowledge and attitude that “Yes, I can do this too!” |
|
|
Smart Women Don't Retire
|
Many U.S. women will live to be 90 years of age; thanks to a longevity revolution that’s brought us a new phase of healthy life in our 60’s and 70’s. As women, how do we spend these “bonus years” to create meaning in our lives? In a lively presentation that draws on personal insights and research, author Gail Rentsch will share her transition story and discuss several major themes from the book Smart Women Don’t Retire – They Break Free such as recognizing transition triggers, identifying intangible benefits we get from work, trying on new roles, finding new communities…and understanding why our spouses drive us crazy! In addition, hear from a special panel of women who will illustrate key points through their own experience. Attendees will then participate in a structured experiential learning activity to close out the session. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Recognize triggers that say “it’s time for a change”.
- Develop a portfolio of activities that help them define their next step.
- Understand and anticipate the challenges of transition.
- Get excited about the new opportunities that are possible.
- Tap into their WFF network as a resource for their transitions.
Stress, Anxiety, Yoga and Finding Inner Balancing
|
This fun 2 hour yoga and wellness workshop will be both informative and interactive. The first 45 minutes will focus on ways in which stress and anxiety affect our bodies and our lives. Jennifer Gray, Owner and Founder of Yoga Center of Minneapolis, will tell a personal story that is both humorous and inspirational and will include how she came to Yoga, what it did for her, and how she began a new life as a business owner and mother of three once she found calm and balance in her life. The remaining time will be dedicated Yoga techniques you can incorporate into your everyday life to reduce stress and anxiety – even while at work! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Utilize techniques to de-stress at work and in everyday life.
- Identify when your body is exhibiting reactions to stress and anxiety and how to alleviate those reactions
- Access information and a supplemental handout yoga poses and breath techniques
- Build a plan to bring more balance into your busy life .
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 12:00 am
Volunteer Appreciation Brunch and 2011 Committee Kick-off
- Track: Volunteers
All current volunteers (2009/2010) and new volunteers (2010/2011) are invited to join us for a morning of recognition, welcome and orientation. You won’t want to miss the presentation of the Committee Contributor of the Year Award in recognition of our hardworking volunteers nor the chance to welcome incoming volunteers and take part in the new volunteer year kick off with a special orientation. Don’t forget this is a special chance to network with other enthusiastic WFF volunteers!
Executive Track (Vice President and C-Level)
Educational Overview
We are happy to partner with the Center for Executive Women at the prestigious Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University for Executive Track programming. Content is certified for Continuing Education Credits toward your professional certification. Executive programming is specifically designed for corporate vice presidents, senior management, CEOs and board members. Anyone is welcome to attend the executive sessions if you feel the content is appropriate to your development needs. Participants will have an opportunity to select sessions that focus on the key competencies of Communication and Listening, Building Networks and Risk Taking, incorporating Business & Financial Acumen as appropriate.
Wednesday, April 7th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Evaluating Good vs. Bad Professional Opportunities
 |
This session will help attendees how to think about managing their careers on the way to the top. Career management and movement will be discussed, as well as the competencies that typically are required for CEO or C-Suite executives, so attendees can think about how to develop a “competency-based” resume in addition to a reverse chronological resume. The broad parameters of industry, function, geography, size, and “state of business” will be related to one’s current and future positions as well as the “life balancers” of professional life, personal life, financial health, physical health, and moral/ethical health. The course also will touch on networks and how to develop a source of trusted outsiders who will permit executives to have risk-free conversations concerning their careers. Adequate time will be left for an active dialogue and questions/comments. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Ask the right questions to objectively evaluate a C-Suite job opportunity.
- Identify the resources to objectively evaluate new job opportunities.
- Evaluate the risks and benefits of role changes across functions on the path to the C-Suite.
Advancing your Career through Board Readiness
 |
Increasingly, the advancement into the Executive Suite requires you to become “board-ready”. In this session you will learn what the roles are of a board and its officers as it relates to governance, strategy, risk management, financing and succession planning. |
|
|
Entrepreneurial Tools to Keep Cash Flowing Through Your Business
 |
If you are want to understand cash flow or looking to improve cash flow in your established business, this session is for you. Learn why you should care about your business's cash flow; when to use your money and when to use other people's money; simple cash flow metrics; the power of working capital management and understand the "Cash Conversion Cycle". And let's not forget about profit margins -- you can go broke while turning a profit! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Explain key metrics in cash flow statements
- Describe how business activities and decisions impact cash flow
- Identify strategies to maximize cash flow
- Forecast cash flow
Wednesday, April 7th 2:30 - 5:30 pm
Top-to-Top
|
What do top executives need to know and do in order to successfully lead as
we leave behind the Great Recession of 2009, and move into 2010 and the
coming decade? All signs indicate that the recent great recession is
beginning to relax its grip on American life. What comes next? While
strong opinions are everywhere, most CEOs understand we are in an
uncomfortable period of Great Ambiguity, that is, "a time of considerable
debate over the clarity of economic indicators and the staying power of
apparent improvements." (Peter Goodman, NYTimes, January 2010). In the midst of the Great Recession, most organizations quickly acted to rethink markets, revenues, and expenses - freezing hiring, implementing layoffs, postponing new initiatives, cutting costs, and putting strategic development on the back burner. But now what? Did we cut too fast? How do we rebuild with innovation that reflects new economic realities, a changed consumer mindset, and a quickly changing world? A new order of top leadership performance is required. In this highly interactive session, Saj-nicole will ask attendees to think with her about ways to take advantage of this time of ambiguity and persistent change. What do current trends mean for leaders at the top? What kinds of questions do leaders need to ask? How important is diversity, alignment, and dissent? What new skills and actions must come to the fore? Following her presentation, Dr. Joni will moderate an interactive panel with the following executives: Paul Leinwand Vice President of Global Consumer, Media and Digital Practice for Booz & Co., Drew Madsen President and Chief Operating Officer of Darden Restaurants, Mindy Rich Vice Chairman Rich Products Inc. and Dawn Sweeney President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Restaurant Association |
|
|
Thursday, April 8th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
The New Science of Networks and Leadership (part 1 of 2)
 |
Research now shows that what distinguishes top leaders is their social capital --namely the potent yet invisible personal networks through which thriving resources and clients are managed. Yet many persons who aspire to top positions of leadership unconsciously build networks low in social capital. In this workshop, using an interactive lecture and engaging exercises, you will learn scientifically grounded principles for developing your leadership network. |
|
|
Objectives
Acquire the characteristics of a powerful network. Inform participants about the link between leadership capabilities and their network.
Self-assess your network. Using a self-diagnostic tool, participants find out the structure of their personal network and its strengths and weaknesses.
Develop a plan for building a better network. Have participants understand what action steps they need to take at the conference, at their desk, and in front of clients to properly invest in a powerful network using scientifically ground research and empirically validated principles.
Speaking Finance with Ease (part 1 of 2)
 |
In a fast-paced, constantly changing economic landscape, it is increasingly important to clearly articulate the current financial state of an enterprise and the economic indicators that may impact its future. Through the use of case studies and interactive learning, you will be equipped with the tools to effectively communicate to all stakeholders in your organization. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Understand and confidently present key financial metrics that support new strategies.
- Effectively communicate the global view of financials to the board.
- Translate and communicate the global view into actionable strategies to all stakeholders.
Thursday, April 8th 2:00 - 3:30 pm
The New Science of Networks and Leadership (part 2 of 2)
|
Research now shows that what distinguishes top leaders is their social capital --namely the potent yet invisible personal networks through which thriving resources and clients are managed. Yet many persons who aspire to top positions of leadership unconsciously build networks low in social capital. In this workshop, using an interactive lecture and engaging exercises, you will learn scientifically grounded principles for developing your leadership network. |
|
|
Objectives
Acquire the characteristics of a powerful network. Inform participants about the link between leadership capabilities and their network.
Self-assess your network. Using a self-diagnostic tool, participants find out the structure of their personal network and its strengths and weaknesses.
Develop a plan for building a better network. Have participants understand what action steps they need to take at the conference, at their desk, and in front of clients to properly invest in a powerful network using scientifically ground research and empirically validated principles.
Speaking Finance with Ease (part 2 of 2)
|
In a fast-paced, constantly changing economic landscape, it is increasingly important to clearly articulate the current financial state of an enterprise and the economic indicators that may impact its future. Through the use of case studies and interactive learning, you will be equipped with the tools to effectively communicate to all stakeholders in your organization. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Understand and confidently present key financial metrics that support new strategies.
- Effectively communicate the global view of financials to the board.
- Translate and communicate the global view into actionable strategies to all stakeholders.
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 11:00 am
Quick & Easy Secrets to Eating Better and Saving Time
|
Learn how to feed yourself and your family, in a quick, easy, wholesome way that will kick up your energy and bond your brood together. Lack of time and meal execution is the biggest enemy to providing a healthy lifestyle. By opening up and getting into the mindset of a Chef/Nutritionist, planning and preparation of a wholesome meal is a snap! This presentation will provide you with the tools and inspiration to create a more effective healthy lifestyle for a modern household that’s always on the go! This also as an opportunity to network with your fellow attendees as you learn by doing so the components of eating better are anchored-in more effectively, with the knowledge and attitude that “Yes, I can do this too!” |
|
|
Smart Women Don't Retire
|
Many U.S. women will live to be 90 years of age; thanks to a longevity revolution that’s brought us a new phase of healthy life in our 60’s and 70’s. As women, how do we spend these “bonus years” to create meaning in our lives? In a lively presentation that draws on personal insights and research, author Gail Rentsch will share her transition story and discuss several major themes from the book Smart Women Don’t Retire – They Break Free such as recognizing transition triggers, identifying intangible benefits we get from work, trying on new roles, finding new communities…and understanding why our spouses drive us crazy! In addition, hear from a special panel of women who will illustrate key points through their own experience. Attendees will then participate in a structured experiential learning activity to close out the session. |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Recognize triggers that say “it’s time for a change”.
- Develop a portfolio of activities that help them define their next step.
- Understand and anticipate the challenges of transition.
- Get excited about the new opportunities that are possible.
- Tap into their WFF network as a resource for their transitions.
Stress, Anxiety, Yoga and Finding Inner Balancing
|
This fun 2 hour yoga and wellness workshop will be both informative and interactive. The first 45 minutes will focus on ways in which stress and anxiety affect our bodies and our lives. Jennifer Gray, Owner and Founder of Yoga Center of Minneapolis, will tell a personal story that is both humorous and inspirational and will include how she came to Yoga, what it did for her, and how she began a new life as a business owner and mother of three once she found calm and balance in her life. The remaining time will be dedicated Yoga techniques you can incorporate into your everyday life to reduce stress and anxiety – even while at work! |
|
|
Objectives
Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Utilize techniques to de-stress at work and in everyday life.
- Identify when your body is exhibiting reactions to stress and anxiety and how to alleviate those reactions
- Access information and a supplemental handout yoga poses and breath techniques
- Build a plan to bring more balance into your busy life .
Friday, April 9th 09:00 am - 12:00 am
Volunteer Appreciation Brunch and 2011 Committee Kick-off
- Track: Volunteers
All current volunteers (2009/2010) and new volunteers (2010/2011) are invited to join us for a morning of recognition, welcome and orientation. You won’t want to miss the presentation of the Committee Contributor of the Year Award in recognition of our hardworking volunteers nor the chance to welcome incoming volunteers and take part in the new volunteer year kick off with a special orientation. Don’t forget this is a special chance to network with other enthusiastic WFF volunteers!
| The WFF 2010 Conference Site is sponsored by |  |