Steve joined MCG’s Connected Leadership Programme wanting to understand not just how he leads, but what tools he could use to improve the way he leads. What he found was a space for honest reflection — and a shift in how he shows up for his team every day.
“Stepping into management for the first time can be both exciting and challenging. My decision to join MCG’s Connected Leadership Programme was driven by a clear motivation: a desire to grow as a leader and develop the skills and knowledge to excel in the role. Having developed my leadership style organically over the years, I wanted to build stronger foundations and better understand what tools I could use to lead more effectively.
What surprised me most about the programme was not so much the content, but the depth of personal reflection it required. Through practical group exercises and open discussions, I was encouraged to look closely at my own behaviours, both the strengths and the weaknesses that needed refining. One particularly powerful moment came during a listening exercise, which highlighted how much more meaningful conversations become when leaders are fully present and truly listening, without interruption or distraction. I have since made a conscious effort to give people my full attention — pausing tasks and removing distractions.
This focus on self-reflection led to a tangible shift in how I lead today. The programme reinforced a key insight: good leadership is not necessarily about having all the answers it’s about creating an environment where others feel trusted, empowered, and confident to make decisions.
Beyond day-to-day leadership, the experience has shaped how I think about my future at MCG. The tools and perspectives gained through the programme have helped me approach challenges differently and strengthened my confidence to lead at a higher level when opportunities arise.
Reflecting on the journey, three words capture what this programme unlocked for me: self-reflection, self-awareness, and confidence. Together, they represent not just personal development, but the kind of leadership mindset that supports growth — both for individuals and for the organisation as a whole.”
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