NAWDP Day of Learning

NAWDP Day of Learning Event: Soft Skills for the Workforce Development Professional

This event is designed specifically for workforce development professionals eager to sharpen their soft skills and maximize their impact.  Through practical strategies, real-world examples, and peer-to-peer collaboration, we will explore key soft skills that drive success in workforce development.

Join NAWDP Training Director, Kim Meadows, and Membership Director, Alexis Franks, for 3 information packed hours of learning and collaboration!  Each topic will include a 30-minute presentation, and 15-minute breakout room discussions with your peers!   Leave this “NAWDP Day of Learning Event” with a renewed focus on ESSENTIAL SKILLS for the Workforce Development Professional! ($50/NAWDP members; $75/non-NAWDP members)

Date:    March 20, 2025

Times: 11:00 AM CDT – 2:30 PM CDT

11:00-11:45       Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

As workforce development professionals, the work that we do daily impacts lives both directly and indirectly.  This topic area will focus on developing empathy and emotional intelligence by understanding and relating to the challenges faced by customers and managing one’s own emotions and responding sensitively to the emotions of others in stressful or difficult situations.

11:45-12:30       Critical Thinking and Decision-Making Skills

Critical thinking and decision-making are essential skills in workforce development programs, enabling professionals to analyze complex challenges and devise effective solutions. This topic area focuses on equipping participants with tools to evaluate information objectively, make informed decisions, and adapt to dynamic workforce needs.

12:30-1:00         Lunch Break

1:00-1:45            Relationship Building and Conflict Resolution

Building strong relationships and resolving conflicts effectively are crucial for success in workforce development programs. This topic area explores strategies to foster trust, collaboration, and open communication among stakeholders, including job seekers, employers, and program staff. Workforce professionals will learn practical techniques to address differences constructively, strengthening partnerships and promoting positive program outcomes.

1:45-2:30            Time Management

This topic area is designed to empower professionals with skills to effectively manage time.  We will discuss common time management challenges such as balancing customer needs, administrative tasks, and program development.  Strategies to prioritize tasks, plan, and set goals will be the focus of this session.