If there’s one common denominator among everyone who works in the produce industry, it’s the ability to adapt to change at a moment’s notice. Produce professionals are deeply familiar with the challenges of working with a fragile and highly perishable product. They rise to the occasion, step in and become the leader the moment demands.
But while adaptability is second nature, many are tossed into leadership roles without the training or tools to lead effectively, a classic sink-or-swim scenario. And swim they do. The industry is full of capable, quick-thinking professionals who manage to find their footing. Still, training in facilitation and leadership can make that transition smoother, strengthen team collaboration and build greater buy-in from new leaders across the board.
With this in mind, Equitable Food Initiative developed an online course, Facilitation 101 designed to help produce professionals build practical skills in communication, group dynamics and shared learning. The course, which is open for registration now, is geared toward those who lead or support teams in any capacity, from supervisors and safety leads to peer educators and frontline workers with informal leadership roles.
Participants practice setting clear expectations, creating group agreements, asking thoughtful questions and helping teams work through challenges together. The approach is hands-on and interactive; encouraging people to reflect on their own leadership style and develop strategies they can use right away.
This fall’s course will include individuals from different companies, roles and regions, offering a unique space for shared learning. “It was helpful to hear how others are working through similar issues in their workplaces,” said one participant. “I walked away with ideas I hadn’t considered before.” Offered only twice a year, Facilitation 101 has received a 100% satisfaction rating from participants in post-course surveys.
To preview the course, EFI is offering a new series of free leadership training webinars. These 30-minute virtual sessions are open to anyone interested in exploring facilitation topics in a more flexible format. Whether you’re curious about what facilitation looks like or looking to refresh your skills in specific areas like listening, feedback or group decision-making, the webinars are a chance to learn alongside others and take away a few practical tools.
To learn more about Facilitation 101 or to register for an upcoming free webinar, visit: equitablefood.org/fa101.
Author: Madelyn Edlin, Product Marketing Manager, EFI