The EXCEL Program

(copyright 2001 Synergy Services Inc.)

The EXCEL Program© (Expanding Capabilities and Employment Levels) is a 5 ½ -hour program that strengthens basic life skills. It covers five areas: Self-image, Communication, Workplace Relationships, Goal-setting and Job Search. And provides a solid foundation for increasing the chances for personal success, especially among those with barriers to obtaining and/or maintaining meaningful employment.

The EXCEL Program© was developed as a “first step” for survivors of domestic violence, who often have low self-esteem and a fear of failure the keep them from accessing community resources. The program quickly grew to include anyone with barriers to achieving personal success.

The program package, which is distributed through Skill Power LLC, includes one 100-page Facilitator’s Manual, ten 50-page Participant Booklets, one powerpoint presentation disc, one master copy folder and on sample bag of motivational items. (Visual aid posterboards are also available.)

The following is the information found on the Leadership page of the EXCEL Program's Participant Book:

LEADERSHIP

Leadership is much more a matter of relationship-building and holding firm to purpose and challenge (“This goal is important. How can I convince others that it is important, and work on a way to accomplish it?”), than knowing solutions and making others accomplish them (“I am the leader, so I make all the decisions and can make people do what I want them to do.”)

Leadership is important in any group, organization or institution; however, one of the most important leadership positions is guiding a family unit.

Characteristics of an Effective Leader:

Values: Honest / trustworthy, sincere, direct, ethical, dependable

Vision: Anticipates future needs, develops clear goals.

Passion: Enthusiasm and optimism.

Strong communication skills: Approachable, active listener, productive speaker.

Strong people skills: Shows respect for others (and their goals); Values others, and encourages input; Team oriented, not self-centered; Flexible

Ability: To plan, organize, and be decisive; To identify problems early, explore possible causes, and develop a solution; To persuade and motivate.

****************************************************************** Things to Remember:

• Skilled followers contribute to a leader’s success. A good leader values supporters, and does not envy accomplishments.

• Caring about the goal, and respect for others, inspires loyalty.

• Smiling and looking people in the eye, is the first step in trust, which leads to cooperation.

******************************************************************

Basics of Team Leadership:

• Treat all team members equally, and give each personal attention as required.

• Keep all promises made to team member.

• Be consistent and act positively, even if feeling negative.

• Set good example, by following policies and procedures.

• Stay calm under pressure. (Role model)

• Provide opportunities to meet and exchange ideas with team members.

• Make sure all goals are clearly communicated and understood. (Involve team in goal-setting.)

• Expect the unexpected.

******************************************************************

(To view The EXCEL Program package or place an order, please go to www.skill-power.com .)