Leading Across Difference

Leading Across Difference is a management course designed to help leaders navigate the real complexity of today’s workforce, and how differences in age, experience, career path, and training shape day-to-day management challenges such as communication, performance, collaboration, and retention. Through practical frameworks and applied tools, managers learn how to set clear expectations, support effective teamwork, and create conditions where employees from all backgrounds can perform well and stay engaged.

This is not a passive e-learning course. It is a structured, applied leadership development experience designed to produce real change in how you lead. The course is organized into eight modules that address common workforce dynamics managers encounter and emphasizes actionable strategies that managers can apply immediately to strengthen effectiveness, reduce friction, and support both organizational goals and employee wellbeing. Every module is paired with practical exercises, real workplace tools, and reflective assignments that ask you to apply what you’re learning directly to your team, your decisions, and your day-to-day practice. To complete the course, you must work together with a supervisor or accountability partner to implement changes based on the modules.

What you will walk away with:

• A deeper understanding of how difference shows up on your team
• Practical frameworks for communication, feedback, and decision-making across difference
• The ability to examine and advocate for more equitable and inclusive systems and practices in your organization
• A certificate of completion issued through United Way of Southern Maine
• 12h of continuing education credits available for certain fields. Inquire to learn more.

Who it’s for: Entry to Mid-level managers and team leads in small to mid-sized organizations who are ready to lead with more intention.

Format: Self-paced e-learning | 8 modules | 12+ hours of content and practice | Complete in 2–6 months

Leading Across Difference is offered through the United Way Southern Maine Workforce Initiative in partnership with Integrative Inquiry Consulting.