Foundations of Leadership is a cohort-based leadership development course available to supervisors, managers or team leads who 

• Are new to the university and in a leadership position
• Are an existing U-M employee that is new to supervision
• Have up to three years of supervisory or management experience
• Have at least one direct report

The content focuses on expanding the capacity of individuals to perform in leadership roles by focusing on five key University of Michigan expectations:

• Communication
• Coach and Develop Talent
• Foster and Promote Diverse Teams
• Lead Innovation and Change
• Solve Problems

The course consist of six facilitator-led sessions and multiple e-learning components. The sessions are designed to increase awareness of leadership models and time-tested principles as well as provide several skill-building opportunities to ensure the concepts can be applied in the workplace.

You will learn to:

• Build authentic connections, inspire confidence, and create a positive work environment where trust and psychological safety flourish.
• Elevate your communication skills to convey ideas clearly, actively listen and collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Implement strategies for setting clear, measurable goals, providing constructive feedback, and effectively evaluating and improving team and individual performance.
• Develop inclusive leadership practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the team and organization
• Uphold ethical standards and ensure accountability.

You will benefit by:

• Enhancing team cohesion and performance
• Fostering a diverse and ethical culture
• Advancing your personal leadership development

Audience:

U-M leaders who are new to the organization or their leadership role with up to three years of supervisory or management experience and at least one direct report

Program Notes:

Due to the way that the course is structured, attendance is closely monitored. You are allowed one excused absence. If you think you will miss more than one day, we recommend that you register for a different session or join the Course Interest List to be notified when new dates are available. 

You may also be interested in additional development resources for Foundations of Leadership alumni.

You can email your questions about the Foundations of Leadership (FOL) program to:
Campus FOL: [email protected]
Michigan Medicine FOL: [email protected]