As chemists, our world is composed of elements, and with the right formula, they bond to create dynamic new properties. While our interests are piqued with new chemical discoveries that drive us to expand our knowledge, we often may overlook the elements that comprise the formula for our own career success. ACS is committed to developing members into strong leaders. The Society is now providing a comprehensive Leadership Development System (LDS) of learning modules that combined in the right formula transform highly-skilled chemists into highly-skilled leaders.

The LDS is a competency-based, integrated framework of courses designed specifically for ACS members. This system provides training and tools to all volunteers at every level of involvement, from those just beginning to seasoned Board members. The courses address four core competency areas that are essential to effective leadership: personal capability, interpersonal skills, focusing on results, and setting clear direction. These online and facilitated courses will help member volunteers gain skills to be more competitive in the workplace while creating a pipeline of skilled members for ACS leadership roles.

We all know that if we have the right tools for the job, we are significantly more effective and enjoy the process even more. Participating in the LDS will allow members to gain a myriad of core skills critical to their volunteer involvement in ACS as well as in their industrial, research, and academic positions. The LDS will give you core skills to:

•     manage projects more effectively,
•     conduct meetings for greater results and efficiency,
•     develop a collaborative environment for greater productivity,
•     involve volunteers with the right skills for the right projects,
•     gain cooperation when you don’t have formal authority,
•     coach and provide feedback for increased performance,
•     challenge traditional methods and stimulating innovative approaches,
•     work collaboratively across boundaries, and
•     lead change efforts and manage resistance.

Imagine having these skills at your fingertips the next time you lead a team meeting that is going off track. What if you need to influence management to buy into a new project? What if you chair a committee and you need volunteers with the right skills to achieve the committee’s goals? Wouldn’t your job be easier and more enjoyable, and wouldn’t you be a more effective leader?

Now is the time to give your career and your skill set the same attention you give your research, teaching, and manufacturing. Enroll in a course today. Learn more.

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