Workshops

Delegates at this year’s conference had the opportunity to attend one of the exciting 60-minute sessions – each very different and engaging – which encouraged new ways of thinking and offered directors new approaches for their companies.

WS1 - Innovation by Design

“Design drives innovation; innovation powers brand; brand builds loyalty; and loyalty sustains profits. If you want long-term profits, start with design.” Marty Neumeier, The Designful Company

Good leaders recognise the potential of creativity to develop and maintain a sustained competitive advantage, by unlocking existing knowledge and skills to improve productivity, motivate the workforce and generate innovations in products, services and processes.

The Glasgow School of Art & the Institute of Directors delivered an interactive workshop which explored how you can lever existing ‘brilliance’ through design and create a culture of innovation.

Facilitated by Joseph Lockwood, Programme Director, Centre for Design Innovation, who was joined by Dir Iain Reid and Mil Stricevic The Glasgow School of Art

WS2 - Sales Leadership

Because of the way most companies will react in an economic crisis, this is actually a good time to build your pipeline, win new business and expand your market. The key to flourishing during difficult times is not to simply work harder; it’s to work smarter.

The Edinburgh Institute and Sandler Sales Training provided some actions to ensure that sales maintain and grow and keep you ahead of your competitors

Facilitated by Tony Douglas, The Edinburgh Institute and Iain Swanston, Sandler Sales

WS3 - Curing the Workplace Twitters: Social Media, the Business Perspective

Social Networking is nothing new. Good businesses have always been networking with their customers and stakeholders. However the platform and the tools have changed dramatically with the evolution of online tools and websites which have made networking easier, more transparent and potentially more effective.

This session provided a practical introduction to the world of social media, highlighted some of the key employment law issues around social media and considered what proactive steps organisations should take when forming their social media policy.

Facilitated by Eilidh Wiseman, Partner and Head of Employment, Dundas & Wilson and Gary Ennis, NSDesign Ltd

WS4 - Reflected Glory - Developing Leaders in the Workplace

We understand the value of developing leadership potential in our people to deliver the best outcomes. But, how best can we support our people in developing their own leadership and a vibrant leadership culture in the round?

This interactive workshop explored the principles of leadership along with the competencies and behaviours required in sustainable leadership. It also explored how to integrate the conceptual, physical and moral components of ‘business power’ to deliver optimum effect. The session was designed to catalyse delegates’ own thoughts on how to develop the leadership culture, group dynamics and focus in the workforce.”

Facilitated by David Allfrey, Producer and Chief Executive, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo