Prospective attendee:
I can't say enough good things about this course. It's such a hackneyed expression but in this case it really is true. Having spent the better part of the last decade as a problem solver - compensated to predict where something might go wrong and prevent it - I was admittedly skeptical about applying an appreciative approach to a bunch of accountants and tax advisors.
I attended Executive Edge's Experience AI last fall and I can enthusiastically endorse this course for anyone who wants to get an immersion in Appreciative Inquiry and then supercharge it with a dose of Experiential Learning. Coming from an environment where results, not intentions, are valued, I am very pleased to report that the time spent in this course was an exceptional use of my time. Jim Willis and Miriam Ricketts are supportive and competent instructors, beyond their obvious value as subject matter experts in both fields represented. They created an environment that fostered creative thought, tangible outcomes and a healthy dose of fun.
In two and a half days, I went from being a cautiously optimistic novice to a proponent and supporter of the use of AI techniques. During the course, Miriam and Jim were completely willing to work with each of the participants to apply the concepts learned to their own particular projects. More than that, I have gone back and implemented components of what I learned in real-life senior leadership strategy session with great results. The detailed design of this session was almost entirely developed during the course. I highly recommend coming to this session with a project in mind, although even if you don't, after a few minutes of collective brainstorming, everyone should be able to find a direct application for what they will learn.
Another notable benefit of the course was the high quality of the participants who each brought with them unique experiences that added to the flavor and texture of the experience.
At the completion of the course, Jim and Miriam offered their counsel to any of us that needed it as we moved off on our own paths. I don't know if anyone else took advantage of their offer but four months after the class I found the Executive Edge team to be as collaborative and supportive as they were the day I walked into the course. These are people that really care about your success and I was amazed at the level of access that I had to them and their sincere commitment to a continuing relationship.
Sincerely,
Adam Krajchir
Senior Manager, PricewaterhouseCoopers
This was the single most important investment in my professional development since starting my company seven years ago. I feel honoured to have spent such quality time – such close time –with both of you. I loved being in the company of your family and your team. This is very important to me – to connect at more than just a business level.
Not only was my trip home a silken ride, but I was also in a very appreciative space – reflecting, re-living, and absolutely thrilled with what I had just experienced. I had to pinch myself a few times.
I learned much, tried on much, and felt that I made many new friends. What
a treat to be in such an “intensive environment” with your team for so many
days. I felt that I got everything that I wished for, and then more...to have developed a friendship with all of you; to have “applied my learning to a specific proposal”, and to have laughed, dined, and wined (all things important to me). In addition, meeting and working with the other participants was great!
As a team, you are very good....including the experiential, the spatial and conceptual, the pedagogy, the facts, and many many examples. Your love and passion for the discipline showed. Thank you. Your Respect and trust for each other also showed...great stuff!”
Celes Davar,
President, Earth Rhythms Inc.
