Master True Collaboration with New WCMA Educational Opportunity
Human resources and employment leaders in dairy processing are encouraged to register now at WisCheeseMakers.org/Events for a special educational gathering hosted by Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) on Tuesday, October 28 in Madison, Wisconsin.
The day begins with a hybrid meeting of WCMA's Workforce & Education Committee from 10:30 a.m.-noon (CT). Then, in-person attendees will enjoy a networking lunch and an afternoon of learning in a brand-new human resources workshop: Strengthening Organizational Collaboration.
“This workshop offers dairy’s HR professionals the tools they need to strengthen collaboration within their teams and across their organizations—skills that are essential for long-term success in an ever-changing, competitive industry,” said WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy Rebekah Sweeney.
This educational program will help participants recognize how effective collaboration drives organizational success and achievement; master a structure for leading collaborative efforts; discover how embracing constructive conflict enhances team dynamics and fosters innovation; and identify and overcome common barriers to collaboration, including closed or limited mindsets and skills gaps.
Led by expert facilitator Cyndi Wentland of Intentionaleaders, LLC, the workshop will include five key areas of education and discussion:
- Explore What Collaboration Is (and Isn’t):
Dive into the true definition of collaboration by distinguishing it from related concepts like cooperation and coordination. Participants will learn how collaboration involves shared goals, mutual accountability, and the blending of diverse perspectives. Misconceptions about collaboration—such as thinking it’s just “working together”—will be addressed to clarify what successful collaboration really looks like.
- Understand How Conflict Impacts Collaboration:
Examine the dual nature of conflict in collaborative efforts—how it can either drive innovation and creativity when managed constructively or derail progress if left unchecked. This section will highlight the key role of emotional intelligence and communication skills in navigating conflict to strengthen team cohesion.
- Conduct a Conflict Assessment:
Using a structured assessment tool, participants will gain insights into their own conflict styles and those of others, understanding how these dynamics influence collaborative processes and outcomes.
- Complete a Team Activity to Practice Collaboration:
Engage in a hands-on, interactive team exercise designed to understand real-world collaboration challenges. This activity will test participants’ ability to communicate effectively, resolve differences, and leverage each team member’s strengths to achieve a shared objective.
- Learn Best Practices for Leading or Participating in Collaboration:
Gain practical, actionable mindsets and skills for fostering effective collaboration, whether as a team leader or member. Best practices will cover areas such as open mindedness, finding common ground, asking thoughtful questions, active listening, etc.
Sponsorships of this interactive workshop are also available through October 21, including a complimentary registration and recognition during the session. Additional details on sponsorships and registration are available now at WisCheeseMakers.org/Events.