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Published on 2nd September 2024

A Sneak Peek into ‘WUN Drive’ our bespoke Management Skills Programme for Women in Utilities

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We are thrilled to announce the launch of ‘WUN Drive’ our bespoke Management Skills Programme. This virtual development opportunity has been created recognising the unique challenges women face in management roles. It’s modular and designed to equip women with the essential skills and confidence needed to excel as managers in utilities. 

Why This Programme is Essential 

The utilities industry has long been male-dominated and this lack of diversity not only limits opportunities for talented women but also deprives organisations of the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table. We want to bridge this gap by providing tailored training to address the specific needs and challenges women face in the utilities sector, and to support them to support others around them. 

Programme Overview 

Our programme is based on our own experiences in utilities and built on feedback that senior women gave us. It is entirely virtual, offering easier accessibility for busy professionals and is structured around six key modules, each focusing on important aspects of line management and leadership: 

Module 1: Management Foundations 

The first module will welcome you to the programme and set the scene for the exciting things to come. We’ll think about our learning objectives and how to manage the challenges of life as a woman at work. 

We’ll also quickly get stuck into the content  – starting with psychological safety. We’ll  explain how to get comfortable not having all the answers, and how to create a work environment where your team feel safe to express ideas, try new things and voice concerns without fear of negative consequences.  

Module 2: Speaking Up & Leaning In 

In this module, we will focus on learning strategies to build and maintain confidence in a variety of situations – including when you are the only woman in the room. We will explore the skills needed to present yourself assertively, handle difficult conversations, and make decisions with conviction. 

You will explore the roots of imposter syndrome, learn techniques to overcome it, and develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence, as well as understanding what other women around you may be experiencing. 

Module 3: Impactful Conversations 

This module introduces communication and coaching techniques that you can use to support your team members’ growth and development. You’ll learn how to use the techniques to ask the right questions, and to create an environment that encourages self-reflection and personal development. We’ll also take the time to think about the benefits of coaching and how it can support your own career. 

Module 4: Performance Management 

This module covers the essentials of setting clear expectations, providing constructive and actionable feedback, and conducting performance reviews.  We’ll also discuss techniques to get the best out of your people through engagement and involvement, as well as how to reflect on your own performance at work. 

Module 5: Navigating Careers 

Setting career goals, identify opportunities for growth, and creating actionable plans to achieve your aspirations are the focus of this session.  We’ll also loop back to module two to think about managing the different life challenges that women face alongside a busy and rewarding career. We’ll be looking at this through the lens of participants and those around them. 

Module 6: Commercial Savviness & Close 

In this final module, we’ll get stuck into some bite sized skills needed as you climb the career ladder. You’ll focus on topics such as influencing, stakeholder engagement, decision making and financial awareness, through the lens of the changing utilities landscape. 

Then we’ll take some time to reflect on our WUN Drive journey ! 

 Join us on this transformative journey – why choose WUN ? 

  • Designed by women in utilities, for women in utilities  
  • More than just a training course—a comprehensive development journey designed to empower women in utilities.  
  • Working with a supportive network of peers to create long lasting relationships in the sector 
  • Sector relevant – with insight and examples that are rooted in relevance for women in the sector 

 More details on registration and programme start dates are coming in September. Together, let’s build a future where women manage and lead with confidence, purpose, and impact in the utilities sector.