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Leading Edge: January introduction from John Withers CMgr FIML, Chair of the Board

Welcome to the January edition of Leading Edge and of course into 2021.

For many managers and leaders, this year represents I expect not only challenges, but also hope and a fresh start. It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge that 2020 thoroughly challenged how we work, lead and live. However I start the year confident, knowing that many of us flourished despite the difficulties. That’s why in the first edition of Leading Edge this year, I’d like to update you on some of the exciting changes and improvements we’re introducing.

As our society’s paradigm of the ideal workplace shifts, IML ANZ continues to move with agility to deliver valuable products, services and resources to our Members. Of course in response to government and health guidelines, all our Member Lounges remain closed. But we understand the importance of keeping Members connected, which is why we will continue to deliver virtual Member Connect events in 2021. These virtual events present opportunities to bring professionals from across Australia and New Zealand closer despite the distance. It remains a vital part of our Membership offering as physical distancing requirements persist in many regions.

In 2021, we’re continuing to help leaders deep-dive into crucial topics that deal directly with the challenges of the time. Expect to see more of our highly successful Virtual Development Days in 2021. Last year, thousands of participants benefited from these sessions at a time when managers needed sound guidance the most. So keep an eye out for your invitation to the next Virtual Development Day.

The events of 2020 had helped leaders to rethink the merit of agility in so many ways. We’ve had to reflect on it too, particularly when it comes to the way we keep our Membership informed, engaged and energised by the latest ideas in leadership. We have decided to change the way we deliver Leadership Matters content. Instead of a quarterly magazine, I’m excited to announce that you will now receive Leadership Matters as a monthly newsletter. In addition, we are looking forward to launching our brand-new podcast in 2021. The popularity of podcasts has skyrocketed as it has become a pragmatic way to take in knowledge, information and new ideas. Our goal is to provide you with the leadership thinking you need, in a format that best suits our modern lifestyles.

I know some of you may miss the magazine’s print version, while others may welcome the environmental benefits of the new approach. On weighing the benefits of a more frequent and timely newsletter and podcast, we decided that if 2021 is about nothing else, it’s about fresh perspectives and trying new things. Keep an eye out for Leadership Matters in its new forms – and, as always, if you would like to contribute to the newsletter, then contact us via leadershipmatters@managersandleaders.com.au.    

Our membership offering has never been stronger because many professionals now recognise that leadership matters, especially in tough times. So, despite the extraordinary events of 2020 we had more Membership renewals than any other year in our history. We also saw New Zealand post the highest Member retention rate. I look forward to welcoming more managers and leaders into the IML ANZ community this year.

I hope that you’ve all had a much-needed summer break and reflected on how the challenges of 2020 has made you a better manager or leader. Let’s all look ahead to 2021 and continue to achieve much more for the management and leadership profession.

I believe we begin this year more resilient, wiser, confident and better equipped for new challenges the future might bring.

John Withers CMgr FIML

Chair of the Board

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