Leading From the Middle
Leading from the Middle (LFTM) is a comprehensive leadership program designed specifically for middle managers responsible for supervising employees and/or programs while collaborating with executive leadership. This program will empower middle managers to lead effectively in all directions by enhancing their skills in self-leadership, team management, collaboration, and organizational relationships. Participants will develop skills necessary for effective leadership, learn strategies to foster a positive team culture that enhances collaboration, and gain insights into navigating organizational dynamics.
Program Structure:
- Session 1 – Leading Yourself: Managing vs. Leading
- Session 2 – Leading Others: Relationships and Team Culture
- Session 3 – Leading Others: Psychological Safety
- Session 4 – Leading Others: Performance Management
- Session 5 – Leading Across: Activate Networks, Enable Collaboration with Peers/Other Middle Managers
- Session 6 – Leading Across: Tackling the Transactional
- Session 7 – Leading Up: Political Savvy
Intended Audience:
This program is designed for mid-level leaders who hold formal leadership roles within the UT System and are responsible for supervising employees and/or programs and collaborating with executive leadership.
Prerequisites:
Prerequisites are not currently required for Leading from the Middle; However, we strongly recommend completing the Leading From Where You Are and Supervisory Foundations certificate programs before beginning Leading from the Middle.
Methodology:
The program consists of seven sessions delivered over the course of a semester via Zoom. Its interactive nature will encourage participants to engage with the material, share experiences, and learn from each other. To facilitate learning, a combination of required readings, independent reflection, virtual facilitated group sessions, and online presentations will be employed. Participation in all learning activities is a requirement for successful completion and awarding of the “Leading from the Middle” certificate.
*If team leaders or department heads are interested in this program for their employees, it can be tailored for an intact group and/or in-person sessions. Contact your EOD Business Partner for more information.
Questions – uteod@tennessee.edu
