In this interview, Ambassador Charles Crawford, a winner of the equivalent of two Oscars and an Oxford alumnus, discusses the importance of attending the upcoming TEXEM programme titled “Self-awareness for Better Management of Change in Uncertain Times.” This programme will also feature other esteemed faculty members, including Professor Paul Griffith, the world’s first Professor in Management to lead a team to launch a rocket into space, and Professor Randall Peterson from the London Business School.
Ambassador Crawford will play a significant role in the TEXEM programme by delivering a live session focused on essential practical communication skills. He emphasizes that effective leadership is not solely about what is said, but rather how it is perceived. When attempting to motivate a team through challenging tasks, leaders must be aware that their tone and the broader context can influence how their messages are received. If leaders are unaware of these dynamics, their words may be overshadowed by negative perceptions.
Crawford believes this programme is highly relevant for leaders today. Understanding how one is perceived by team members, superiors, customers, and regulators is crucial for effective management. The core benefit of the TEXEM programme is that it encourages participants to rethink their self-awareness and approach to work. In uncertain and challenging times, a balance of determination and flexibility is essential. Leaders will learn to assess their decision-making processes and identify areas for improvement, ultimately fostering a culture of learning and innovation within their organizations.
The programme, scheduled from February 11 to March 4, 2023, is designed to help leaders differentiate between what is important and what truly matters. In today’s world, being powerful or astute is insufficient; leaders must also be convincing and effective. TEXEM’s engaging and enjoyable learning methodology further enhances the programme’s appeal. Research indicates that organizations with self-aware leaders tend to perform better financially and foster more collaborative and cohesive teams.
Crawford warns that a leader or manager lacking self-awareness may initially experience success, but this can lead to a sudden downfall. He likens such leaders to cartoon characters who confidently walk off cliffs, only to face the consequences when reality sets in. To achieve lasting success, organizations must cultivate emotional intelligence, enabling teams to manage their own emotions and influence others effectively. This emotional savvy can create a culture of innovation that is difficult for competitors to replicate, contributing to sustainable competitive advantage.
Many change initiatives fail, but self-management can enhance the chances of success. While there are no guarantees, the right balance of discipline, creativity, and flexibility is essential. The TEXEM programme equips participants with the skills needed to navigate challenges and maintain resilience in the face of adversity. By focusing on both overt and subtle messages within their organizations, leaders can improve their communication with teams, customers, and stakeholders.
The TEXEM programme combines self-paced study with live sessions, allowing participants to engage in an average of one hour of study each day from February 11 to March 4. Live sessions will occur every Saturday for four weeks, featuring various faculty members, including Crawford, Professor Randall Peterson, and Professor Paul Griffith. The programme incorporates gamification, with participants earning points for reading articles, watching videos, and making comments, which will be ranked on a league table. The top five participants will be recognized during the live sessions. For more information, interested individuals can email or register at https://texem.co.uk/self-awareness-for-better-management-of-change-in-uncertain-times/.
Comments are closed for this story.