Developing a theme for a training program is like naming a baby. Although many choices are available, you really only have one chance to get it right. This article proposes to ignite your thinking and get you on the right track. At length, you will create an appropriate theme that distinguishes your youth leadership program.
* Review your goals.
The theme should relate to your goals. Therefore, begin by reviewing your goals, and if you have not established goals, now is the time to do so. What does the leadership program aim to do for youth? Is it designed to address a particular problem or need?
* Examine your philosophy.
Take a few minutes to write down your thoughts about leadership. Why is it important? Moreover, why do think youth need leadership training? What are your beliefs? I, for example, believe that leaders should have a strong foundation in the basics. Equally important, I believe that great leaders constantly seek improvement.
* Connect the dots.
List all of the components of your program on a blank sheet of paper. Include the key buzzwords, like internships, educational seminars, mentoring, etc. Then, step back, and let the theme emerge.
* Be creative.
Take the gloves off, and unleash your creativity. One company, for example, used the acronym O.L.Y.M.P.I.C.S as the theme for its training program; the organization wanted a theme that expressed its commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development.
* Avoid mixed messages.
The theme conveys a message. Hence, the content of the program must support the theme. If it does not, make the necessary adjustments. Do not send mixed messages by advertising something that you are not delivering.
* Get others involved.
Discover a way to get others involved in the process. Holding a contest is one fun option. Reward people for participating.
In brief, the ideas mentioned in this article require you to look within and to answer key questions. While other techniques exist for creating a theme, these have helped me over the years. I believe they will help you produce themes that are exciting and on target too.
