A continuing and iterative process for even the most skilled of board members.
1. What inspired you to join this programme, and what did you hope to achieve?
Interestingly, I was introduced to the IDP-C programme through a friend who had just enrolled in it themselves. Even though I too was serving on two boards, I had never given it any thought as to how a formal governance programme such as this could bring real value. I felt I already had what I needed via experience alone – and how wrong I was... Fortunately for me, I took the plunge, dedicated the time, and listened to the advice of my friend who was already convinced of its importance and relevance, both to himself and to my own professional world. Upon arriving for the first session in Fontainebleau, and unbeknownst to me, the magic was just about to happen…
2. In what ways has the programme shifted your perspective or influenced your approach to work?
Having a quick look around the room on the very first day of the IDP-C programme, I was humbled by the fact that each and every one of my peers were highly experienced, sophisticated, and refined participants. My curiosity had peaked as to why they had come to this programme. In due course, I discovered that it was a desire to learn, to become better, and to pursue personal excellence in governance. This shifted my perspective fundamentally as I realised we can never be perfect board members, but we can learn the skills and processes to implement, reflect upon, and improve our performance continually. To embrace shortcomings and celebrate successes. A continuing and iterative process for even the most skilled of board members.
3. Which aspects of the experience stood out most for you (faculty, peers, content, format)?
It quickly became apparent that this was not just another lecture to attend or certificate to acquire. It was a shift in perspective, an exercise in inward reflection, a safe space to share experiences and vulnerabilities with others, and experimentation backed up by data and research. The lecturers – world-class, charismatic, articulate, and engaging. Mesmerising to the point you forgot you ever owned a smartphone.
- The content – revealing and backed by science.
- The immersion – a simulation at a deeper level.
The IDP-C course has been refined, it seems, over several iterations and operates seamlessly. Apart from the content, the IDP-C course has attracted amazing individuals and the networking opportunities, either organised by INSEAD or through themed events and dinners, enabled our cohort to form strong bonds among each other.
4. Can you describe a moment or insight that particularly resonated with you?
Most outstanding were the outcomes of carefully staged exercises that demonstrated, to my amazement, the subtle influences and biases we can be subjected to without even knowing it – a real eye-opener. And in particular, the final coaching session and board simulation near the end of the IDP-C course was meaningfully prepared and surprised all of us, as was the exceptional selection of INSEAD life coaches observing and cultivating our individual personality traits.
5. Would you recommend this programme to others? If so, what makes it meaningful to you?
Not only would I recommend it, I have been proudly bragging about it since completing the course. And apart from the inspiring, thought-provoking IDP-C course material and delivery, the most enduring aspect of the programme has been the strong bonds we have formed in our cohort (IDP-65) which has evolved into a community of IDP-certified peers that continue to meet, discuss, and share common values and interests long after the completion of the course, around the world, and with unparalleled enthusiasm – a true privilege and gift for all of us who made the IDP-C choice.
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