The LGHN Central Texas Chapter's webinar series offers inspiring topics to our members, providing valuable resources and guidance for their professional growth and development.

Webinar 2 

“SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO”

Our latest webinar, moderated by Jorge Morales, featured a distinguished panel discussing career transitions and challenges in local government. The session began with an overview of the importance of professional development, especially in the context of public service, which is currently facing scrutiny and challenges. Panelists shared personal experiences about defining moments that prompted career changes, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and the courage to pursue new opportunities.

Recording link: “Should I Stay or Should I Go"

Password: 0324LGHNwebinar

Key Takeaways:

The significance of aligning personal values with organizational beliefs, as highlighted by Jane Bais-DiSessa, who noted the challenges of working in environments where political affiliations clash with personal ethics.

Patrick Ibarra stressed the importance of chasing impact rather than money, suggesting that those who focus solely on financial gain often find themselves dissatisfied.

Practical Applications: The panelists also discussed the differences between local government and the private sector, noting that public service roles come with heightened visibility and scrutiny. They encouraged attendees to advocate for themselves and seek out opportunities for growth, even if it means taking on roles that may initially seem like a step back.

Conclusion: The panel emphasized the importance of community, support, and continuous learning in navigating career paths within local government, inviting attendees to reach out for further guidance and mentorship.

Recording link: “Should I Stay or Should I Go"

Password: 0324LGHNwebinar

Webinar 1 

“Leading through Crisis and Limited Resources”

Hear from two dynamic CTX LHGN leaders, Ana Bradshaw (Assistant Director, Economic Development, San Antonio) and Jorge Morales (Director, Watershed Protection Department, Austin) about “Leading through Crisis and Limited Resources”.

Recording link: “Leading through Crisis and Limited Resources”

Password: DcjyXJp2.

Key takeaways:

Importance of Authentic Leadership: Being authentic and vulnerable as a leader fosters trust and connection with teams. Leaders should not feel pressured to have all the answers; instead, they should encourage open communication and collaboration.

Crisis Management Strategies: Effective crisis management requires a proactive approach. Leaders should anticipate challenges and prepare their organizations for potential crises. Utilize a "safe to fail" mindset, allowing teams to innovate and learn from failures without fear.

Communication Techniques: Regular and transparent communication is vital during crises. Leaders should engage with their teams through various channels, including videos and direct calls, to maintain morale and provide updates. Building relationships with stakeholders and community members is essential for effective crisis response.

Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership: Diverse leadership teams bring varied perspectives that enhance decision-making, especially during crises. Leaders should intentionally create diverse teams to reflect the community they serve.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Leaders should commit to ongoing professional development, including training in crisis management and communication skills. This preparation allows them to respond effectively to unexpected challenges.

Community Engagement: Engaging the community in planning and decision-making processes ensures that diverse voices are heard and considered, particularly in crisis situations.

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Understanding and addressing the emotional needs of team members is crucial. Leaders should recognize the personal challenges their employees face and provide support accordingly. "If we're going to be a high-performing organization, we must focus on equity, efficiency, and effectiveness while leading with empathy." Jorge L. Morales

Practical Applications

• Implement regular check-ins with team members to gauge morale and provide support.
• Foster an environment where team members feel safe to share ideas and concerns.
• Develop a crisis communication plan that includes various communication methods to reach all stakeholders effectively.

Conclusion: Effective leadership during crises hinges on authenticity, proactive strategies, open communication, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. By fostering a supportive environment and continuously adapting to changing circumstances, leaders can navigate challenges more successfully.

Recording link: “Leading through Crisis and Limited Resources”

Password: DcjyXJp2.