Overview:

It is our nature to think-we all do it. However, a good share of our thinking is biased, distorted, or incomplete. Critical thinking is an essential skill for both managers and employees. Few of us are effective critical thinkers though research suggests that leaders believe they think quite well.

Critical thinking ensures we pose the right questions, view other's viewpoints with merit, and challenge assumptions in strategic thinking, decision making and problem solving. Non-critical thinkers shoot down ideas before they are understood, or take action based on faulty assumptions resulting in a business disaster. Teams, as well as individuals, must learn to think critically which requires a work atmosphere that is conducive to challenging others’ perspectives. Critical thinking enables teams to develop positive insights and ideas that lead to effective action. It focuses on reframing and rethinking issues so that the right problems are addressed, and requires challenging conventional wisdom. Using the process of critical thinking leads to reasoned conclusions, better decisions, fewer mistakes, and improves collaboration among team members.

There is not a consistent definition of critical thinking. The American Academy of Advanced Thinking defines "Critical thinking as the systematic approach to dissecting and analyzing problems, and developing solutions through benchmarking best practices." Critical thinking involves the abiity to not simply accept all arguments and perspectives.

Why should you Attend:
New research has discovered that college graduates do not possess the necessary Critical Thinking skills employers are searching for. Pick up almost any trade journal, magazine or newspaper and they are filled with articles about new graduates (and even seasoned employees) missing the mark in exhibiting critical thinking in their jobs. A 2014 study found that job postings listing critical thinking skills as a requirement for a position had doubled since 2009. The study found that 21,000 healthcare and 6700 management job postings referenced critical thinking as a requirement for the position.

Areas Covered in the Session:

• Define critical thinking
• List characteristics of critical thinkers
• Examine the critical thinking process
• Explore the elements of reasoning
• Discuss critical thinking techniques
• Identify organizational, team, and individual critical thinking barriers

• Senior Managers
• Middle Managers
• Project Leaders
• Directors
• Supervisors
• Professionals in all Industries