Before we started our first job, we dreamt about what career we wanted to have when we grew up.  We started the journey to find the job we wanted and discovered ways to make it happen.  But finding the dream job is only half the battle.  Once we land the job, we have to figure out ways to not only stay in it, but to excel in it.

Course Outline

INTRODUCTION
Course Objectives

MODULE 1
What is Initiative?
Definition
Benefits, Personal, and Professional
Why People Do Not Take Initiative
Make Initiative a Priority
Knowledge Check

MODULE 2
Take a Chance
Be Open Minded
Be Adaptable
Making Decisions
Take Responsibility
Knowledge Check

MODULE 3
Recognize When You Can Step In
Know Your Strengths and Skills
Go the Extra Mile
Listen Carefully
Fill in the Gaps
Knowledge Check

MODULE 4
Recognize When You Can Go Outside the Normal
Consider Culture and Values Before Acting
Is It in the Scope of Your Authority?
Communicate Ideas
Act on Solutions
Knowledge Check

MODULE 5
Weighing the Consequences
Ask Questions
Risk, Impact, or Cost Analysis
Is Authorization Necessary?
When Risks Are Too High
Knowledge Check

MODULE 6
Good or Bad
The Good
The Bad
Develop Judgment
Avoid Acting on Emotion
Knowledge Check

MODULE 7
Confidence
Are You Confident?
Build Confidence
Positive Thinking
Visualization
Knowledge Check

MODULE 8
Find Opportunities
Internal Opportunities
External Opportunities
Apply Core Competencies
What Problems Exist, and Will They Grow?
Knowledge Check

MODULE 9
Be Persistent
Handle Setbacks
Manage Change
Modify Ideas When Necessary
Move Forward
Knowledge Check

MODULE 10
Balance Initiative and Restraint
Consider the Work Involved in an Idea
Develop Emotional Intelligence
Know the Buy-in of Stakeholders
Do Not Push All Ideas Forward
Knowledge Check

ASSESSMENT
Post Test