What people are saying

This is a great course for becoming a better UX writer and a better co-worker in any organization. It's the perfect reminder of our job's purpose: it connects UX design (why we design for our users) to Content practice (decision-making and managing pushback). And Michael's talks and the exercises give us time to practice improving our processes and reflect on the kind of co-worker we want to be.

- Cyril

This workshop has changed the way I look at the idea of leadership. The path isn't always clear for individual contributors, particularly those working in content design/UX writing. But this workshop helped me understand that there are many ways to lead and many opportunities to lead even if you don't have the word "manager" or "lead" in your job title.

- Florence

The workshop provided helpful tools and methods that I can use directly into my own work. It helped me realize that I, too, can be a leader, even as an IC.

- Anne

How it works

We’ll have a mix of teaching, hands-on activities, and discussion. We'll have several short breaks (5-10 mins) throughout the day and one longer break (20-30 mins) about halfway through.

Each workshop is limited to 24 attendees to make sure small group activities and discussions are valuable for everyone. There will also be a second facilitator helping the instructor with logistics, activities, and any support you may need.

Who it’s for

While this workshop has been created with content pros in mind, it's beneficial to anyone who works with teams to design and build things. You'll find it especially helpful if you...

• feel like you're being left out of important conversations or getting brought into a project too late

• want to take more of a leadership role in your work but aren't sure what that looks like

• find that the conversations you're having with your team aren't getting the results you're looking for

• aren't sure how to push back thoughtfully and effectively on decisions you disagree with

Topics we’ll cover

• Practicing your own leadership: Finding a way to be a leader that reflects who you want to be and what you value

• Facilitation as a leadership skill: How a co-worker's experience affects the customer’s experience

• Collaborative journey mapping: Helping a team identify gaps and opportunities

• Practicing pushback: Voicing your concerns while showing people you're on their side

• Templates and worksheets: Leading your team through collaborative problem-solving

Technology and tools we’ll use

We’ll use a few different tools to create an interactive, hands-on learning environment. A computer that you can install Slack and Zoom on should be all you need to participate.

• A Zoom call with breakout rooms. We’ll use a main room for lectures and discussions, and smaller breakout rooms for hands-on activities. Video is welcome, but not required. Participate however you’re comfortable.

• Miro for activities. This virtual whiteboard will be where we practice the different methods we’re teaching. We’ll share the Miro board templates with you after the class so you can adapt them to your own work.

• Slack for communication. We’ll use Slack to keep everyone apprised of what’s happening during the workshop, and as a way to share resources and links.

Scholarships you can apply for

I offer four equity scholarships to this workshop. These scholarships are intended to give people from historically underrepresented groups the opportunity to attend at no cost.

If the date you’re hoping for doesn’t show up in the application, scholarship slots for that date are full.

Apply for an equity scholarship

Refunds and transfers

Due to the time-sensitive nature of live workshops, I can’t offer refunds. However, if you’re not able to attend and want to transfer your ticket to someone else, just let me know.

Code of conduct

This workshop is provided by Metts Strategy LLC, the business behind Leading Like You. We’re dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone. We do not tolerate harassment of participants in any form. All attendees must adhere to the Metts Strategy Code of Conduct.

Certificates of completion

If you or your employer would like me to send a certificate saying you’ve completed the workshop giving an overview of what you learned, I’m happy to do so. Just let me know.

About the instructor

Michael Metts is the founder of Leading Like You, and has long been passionate about helping other people find their own ways to influence and lead. He began his career as a writer and content pro, and is the co-author of Writing is Designing: Words and the User Experience. He is a maker and teacher who has done dozens of workshops and speaking engagements all over the world. He lives with his family on the south side of Chicago.