Putting together an instructional, continuous improvement…but also fun staff in-service training can be a challenging task.  Standardly, you have a variety of age groups, people in different employment areas of the company/organization and a little bit of an attitude that conveys: “Oh yeah we are going to have another REQUIRED staff in-service…I wonder what they will come up with now?”  Well because I enjoy “changing-it-up”, how about if we try a “SHARK-TANKING TO THE EXTREME DAY!” as a new option?!

The “SHARK-TANKING TO THE EXTREME DAY!” would be totally dedicated to new idea generation for your business, school, human service agency, development organization…whatever.  You would create your own rules regarding teams, time allowed to present and format for debate.  No one would be allowed to opt-out of participation.

Think about the potential.  What if the following “SHARK-TANKING TO THE EXTREME DAY!” parameters were set:

• Everyone would be a presenter/co-presenter and a SHARK…and would get to listen to all IDEA pitches.
• Non-traditional staff partnerships would be supported.
• Questions and debate could only be framed in a “why not?” …instead of “no way!” method.
• One, two or three IDEAS would be cooperatively selected as programs to be adopted…products to be invested in…or processes for continuous staff/organization improvements.

I understand that with every new initiative there will be a list of additional considerations I haven’t addressed.  Also, I can hear some already responding to this concept: “That would never work!” … “Staff would never take it serious!” … “It would be a wasted day!”.  Well to all with these thoughts…I suggest you continue to do what you have always done…and you will continue to be what you have always been.

Is that why you have staff in-service trainings?