Voice of Business Blog

What's required when leadership becomes bigger than relying on your technical skills or leading a team?

Many leaders are recognized and promoted because of their expertise, strong performance, and ability to deliver results. As responsibilities expand, success depends on more than technical knowledge or effective team management. Leaders are increasingly challenged to influence across the organization, align stakeholders, drive change in a rapidly evolving environment, navigate new technologies and ways of working, and help others understand where the organization is headed and why it matters.

Research from Gallup found that only 21% of employees strongly agree that their organization's leaders communicate effectively throughout the organization. Leadership today requires more than overseeing work and people. It requires the ability to help others understand what matters most, why it matters, and how their work contributes to broader organizational goals.

As leaders advance in their careers, their focus shifts from executing today's priorities to shaping tomorrow's success. Strategic leaders see beyond immediate challenges, identify emerging opportunities, and position people, resources, and talent for long-term impact.

They step back to see the bigger picture, lead with intention, and create clarity in situations where the path forward isn't always obvious. Rather than relying on authority alone, they create the conditions for people and teams to perform, grow, and thrive.

The 2027 Program - Intentional Leadership: From Operational Focus to Strategic Impact is designed for leaders who are ready to:

- Strengthen self-awareness and better understand how they show up and impact others
- Influence effectively up, across, and throughout the organization
- Create alignment through shared purpose, priorities, and values
- Foster accountability, feedback, and high performance
- Expand their network of peers and collaborative problem-solvers
- Develop others while leading with greater confidence and intention
- Lead through change, navigate complexity, and adapt to evolving technologies and ways of working

If you're ready to broaden your impact beyond day-to-day operations and strengthen your ability to influence, communicate, and think strategically, consider joining the next cohort beginning February 9, 2027.

Space is limited to 15 participants to foster meaningful discussion, connection, and growth. Each interested applicant will complete a brief application to ensure the program is the right fit and to support a strong cohort experience.

Click here for more information or to download the participant application.

Offset the cost with training grant funds! Did you know that incumbent worker training grant funds are currently available through RochesterWorks? Click here for more information including details on eligibility requirements. Monroe County businesses can receive up to 90% matching reimbursement for preapproved, training-related costs, up to a maximum of $10,000. Training must be completed within six (6) months of approval. Grant application review may take 30-45 days due to high interest, so please plan accordingly! All 4 of the Greater Rochester Chamber training courses, including Intentional Leadership, are eligible for this grant!

Check out all of our upcoming events and other trainings here.

Questions? Contact Kathy Richmond, Sr. Director, HR Services at (585) 256-4618.