From Chaotic to Charismatic: Harnessing Type B Energy for High‑Impact Extension Programming
Early Career Development
Kati Lawson
Sebring
Abstract
The role of an Extension agent is dynamic and ever-changing, but the need to develop high-impact programs is constant. Type B agents excel in this restless environment but often stumble when it comes to maintaining a structured approach to program design, execution, documentation, follow-up, and event management.
Presentation Objective – Equip Extension agents who naturally gravitate toward the dynamic, improv-heavy world of outreach with practical, structured strategies to elevate their program design, execution, and impact.
Methods/Delivery- To honor the nature of Extension agents who process information quickly and benefit from hands-on learning, the presentation will be split into four micro sessions, with each session focusing on how to improve a specific problem area type B agents encounter. Each micro session will teach agents how to create systems that work with his/her natural rthyms and processes rather than trying and failing to conform to traditional linear processes. Agents will be able to apply a technique from each session to help them manage their workload when they return to the office. Micro session:1) Time management through time-mapping and time audits, 2) Relationship management through automation, 3) Non-linear organizational processes , and 4) Event management using visual walkthroughs.
Presentation Take away: The goal of this presentation is to provide agents with non-linear thought patterns strategies to thrive in a linear, systems-driven environment.
Authors: Kati Lawson
-
Kati Lawson County Extension Director, 4-H Agent II , University of Florida , Florida, 33875