Leadership Hunterdon :
Frequently Asked Questions
|
"Won’t This Take a Lot of Time? " Yes it will. So does making a really good wine, training for a marathon, and raising a child. However, I think we can all agree that the results from the aforementioned are better when proper time is invested. Seriously, the time you invest in this program will be well worth it. Keep in mind two things: 1) you will have a calendar for all program events well before you start so there are few surprises and 2) you will quickly realize the incredible value in the program and your time invested in it. You can figure on a day and a half for the initial retreat (including an overnight) and then one full work day a month until June. As far as the white paper, that’s like any project – it depends on how highly functioning the group is. It’s fair to say that you’ll spend a few hours a month on it from January – June. "What If I Know I’m Going to Miss a Session?" Please try not to, because you’ll be very sad, your new friends will miss you, and you will find out later that you missed a lot of very cool stuff. However, we know that sometimes it simply can’t be helped. If you miss more than one session and/or the fall retreat, you do run the risk of being dropped from the class. Because the calendar is available so far ahead of time, it’s quite unusual for attendees to miss class. That said, if an emergency arises, simply work that out with the program director. "What’s the Point?" The goal of the program is to develop, inspire, and connect potential leaders for leadership positions in the county. This is done by developing a personal leadership plan for each participant and providing abundant resources, connections, and training to help with that plan. Don’t be concerned, this is not a volunteer shake-down! While there is no requirement for participants to take on a leadership position after graduation, everyone is strongly encouraged to do so. Some have been elected to local governments or school boards, others have committed themselves to non-profit boards, and several have stepped up to chair committees at a variety of organizations. Our county needs smart, thoughtful, enthusiastic, vibrant talent at all levels and types of leadership. We need you. Beyond that, the program also serves to open the eyes of participants to a broad spectrum of issues and exciting opportunities for Hunterdon County. You’ll find yourself leaving every event saying, “I had no idea that ______.” "Why Do You Keep Saying This is Worth It?" Well from a networking standpoint, you can’t miss this chance to benefit from connections made from your classmates with whom you will have a lot of interesting conversation. Additionally, you will meet a host of business owners, county leaders, and really impressive people throughout the year, all of whom are happy to connect with you and help you further your career. You will also benefit from presentations and discussions that will enhance your skills in areas such as: leadership, strategic thinking, management, motivation, and self-awareness. You’ll end this program with a binder of notes, several top-notch books, and a stack of very worthwhile business cards. "Whew, That’s Kind of a Lot of Money" It is an investment, to be sure. But let us start by saying that if not for the generosity of our corporate sponsors, the cost would be much higher. Please also factor in the included costs, like: transportation, meals, books, supplies, and an overnight retreat. Anyone who has done or investigated professional certificate programs knows that this is actually quite reasonable. Finally, we are unaware of a single business manager or business owner who has concluded that the value of the investment is any less than A-grade. "Are You Going to Expect Me to Run for Office After This? " It sure would be nice if you would (assuming you’d be any good at it, of course). As we said before, this is not a pressure tactic to run for office or join a board. It’s not a back-door way of forcing people into leadership positions. Quite the opposite, really. This is your opportunity to hone your leadership skills, see a wide swath of opportunities to give your time and talent, and meet people that you may eventually find yourself leading alongside. It’s really much better than getting a phone call asking for your help and forcing you to make a snap decision out of either guilt or an effort to avoid awkward moments in social situations. Because we know that’s how you ended up in previous leadership positions! Once again, there is no requirement to take on a leadership position post-graduation but it is a program objective and you will likely find a perfect fit for your experience and passion. "A White Paper? Again? I Hated College! " Relax, it’s not that bad. Most graduates will begrudgingly admit that they actually enjoyed the process and we bet all of them will tell you that they are immensely proud of the product that they created together. Have a look at all of the white papers (below) that have been written over the years and you’ll see that the content is really exciting: The Expansion of the Wine Industry in Hunterdon County, A Case for Tech Sector Growth, The State of Entrepreneurship, 5 Industry Sectors Poised for Growth, and so much more! Also bear in mind that these pieces do not sit on a shelf; rather, they have been used and referenced in many ways by various teams and leaders as evidence for economic opportunities in the county. In other words, your group and your white paper will make you a trusted advisor within the topic that you address. People will help you write it and they will want to know what you think about the subject. " Am I Good Enough? " If you’re reading this information, then you very likely are “good enough!” Having the interest in Leadership Hunterdon enough to attend an information session and read the accompanying information means that you’re taking this seriously. To be sure, the program is becoming more competitive each year. We’re looking for folks that take the time commitment seriously and who feel inspired to explore opportunities to take on leadership positions in our county. It’s not a popularity contest, it’s a passion contest. |
