Complete Story
09/25/2024
That's a Wrap on the 2024 ENCORE Leadership Conference!
We were thrilled to host a day full of insightful discussions focused on emerging industry trends and the evolving role of leadership in today's dynamic environment at our 2024 ENCORE Leadership Conference. Our esteemed speakers delivered impactful presentations that not only highlighted the importance of fostering innovation but also explored strategies for creating lasting leadership influence. They shared valuable insights on navigating challenges and leveraging opportunities, encouraging attendees to embrace a forward-thinking mindset. We hope everyone left the event feeling inspired, equipped with fresh perspectives and new ideas to implement within their organizations. The energy and enthusiasm in the room were high, and we look forward to seeing how these discussions will translate into positive change and growth in the industry.
La's first presentation focused on the role of inclusive leadership. Empowering and engaging those around you involves actively listening to their needs and treating them the way they wish to be treated. It’s essential to create pathways for others and meet leaders where they are to help elevate them. Your leadership directly shapes the company culture, making it crucial to model the behavior of an ideal leader. Remember, everyone matters, and fostering an inclusive environment is key to collective growth and success.
After a delicious lunch of building our own pasta bowls, Lachandra was eagerly welcomed back to the stage for her third and final presentation, which focused on leading with empathy and emotional intelligence. While we all experience emotions, it’s important not to let them control us; effective leadership begins with understanding ourselves first. Trust can be situational, and empathy must be reciprocal, as the outcomes we desire may not align with those of others. It’s essential to comprehend your own emotions, pinpoint their causes and ensure that emotions do not overshadow intelligence.
Following Lachandra, we welcomed back a previous conference presenter, David Mauro of NetGain IT, who took the stage to address a particularly concerning topic: AI, Insider Risk and Cyber Hygiene. David presented real-world examples of cyber breaches, illustrating how these incidents are increasingly feasible and believable due to emerging threats such as deep fakes, extortion, social engineering and phishing. He emphasized the critical need for organizations to find effective ways to protect themselves and integrate security measures into their operations, as well as on a personal level for their own networks and devices. As the landscape of cybersecurity continues to evolve, it is vital for companies to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their assets and information.
The day concluded with a special presentation from Gary Walton of the Cincinnati Type & Print Museum. In his session, Gary encouraged printing companies to integrate printed electronics into traditional printing operations, highlighting this as a vital innovation for maintaining competitiveness in the rapidly evolving industry. He discussed various opportunities currently available, including calculators, phone components and solar panels. Gary elaborated on strategies for introducing this technology to your existing customers and transforming your business to enable the production of these electronic products. He wrapped up his presentation by showcasing real-world examples of companies that have successfully implemented printed electronics, providing inspiration for attendees to explore these advancements in their own operations.
