A consistent approach to leadership

With respect for individual differences

Good leadership starts with understanding what people need. Particularly in a manufacturing environment, where employees with different backgrounds, experiences and personalities work together every day. That is why, at BOAL Extrusion, we have invested in developing our team leaders through the practical training programme Performing Through Collaboration.

At our production site in De Lier, team leaders play an important role. They ensure that operations run smoothly, commitments are met and colleagues can work together effectively in a positive working environment. This requires technical knowledge and organisational skills, but communication and interpersonal skills are equally important.

So how do you provide clear leadership to a team where people differ in language, culture, work experience and personality? And how do you ensure a consistent approach to leadership while recognising and respecting individual needs?

From understanding to practical action

Recently, 17 team leaders and deputy team leaders took part in two days of practical training as part of Performing Through Collaboration, a programme developed by Paul Slangen.

Guided by the trainers, participants worked on effective communication, giving and receiving feedback, addressing behaviour and agreed expectations, and handling difficult conversations. They also learned to recognise different behavioural and communication styles and how to adapt their own approach accordingly.

The training combined theory with group exercises and real-life workplace scenarios. The focus was not only on leading others, but also on developing a better understanding of one another.

Learning together strengthens teamwork

“A team is a group of people who have decided to learn together.” This principle was a key part of the training.

The two days of practical training gave participants the opportunity to step away from their daily production environment, share experiences, tackle challenges together and get to know their colleagues in a different way.

This was also reflected in their feedback. Participants described the training as both informative and valuable, particularly appreciating the new insights gained and the opportunity to connect with one another.

Investing in people

According to Production Manager Jan Morien and HR Manager Joyce Bruggeling, the training sessions were well received. The main objective was to equip every participant with practical tools and techniques they could apply directly in their day-to-day work.

With this training, we are taking another step in developing our team leaders. After all, clear expectations and mutual understanding form the foundation of a working environment where people can collaborate effectively, take responsibility and continue to develop.