Intellectual humility
“Intellectual humility”, often related to open-mindedness, is linked to four key leadership characteristics: respect for other viewpoints; not being intellectually overconfident; separating one’s ego from one’s intellect; and willingness to revise one’s own viewpoint. However, philosophers argue the most effective leaders have one additional characteristic – “openness to experience”, which makes them curious enough to…
Unpaid Interns
Many sport organizations rely on unpaid interns to provide valuable workplace opportunities to students and young professionals, and boost capacity during busy times. However, some unpaid intern positions are contrary to employment laws in Canada. On #ThrowbackThursday, learn more in this “old but good” 2014 blog from the Sport Law & Strategy Group.
Communities of character
A values-based approach to sport supports the development of “communities of character” where athletes, coaches, officials, parents and other stakeholders work together to create a welcoming, safe, athlete-centred environment. Learn more about values-based sport and creating communities of character in the SIRCuit.
Resolving Conflict
In the world of sport we often praise a tough-skinned approach to any challenge. But what effect does this have in the workplace? In today’s SIRC blog, Olympian-turned-communications coach Claire Carver-Dias wonders, “Is it possible that sport’s aggressive, win-at-all-costs mentality has squeezed out space for peaceful conflict resolution between sport colleagues?” and provides tips to…
Resolving Conflict: The Power of Dialogue and Authentic Apology
Healthy conflict is an important part of productive work relationships, but the moment that conflict morphs into something more insidious, issues ensue. In the world of sport we often praise a win-at-all-costs approach to any challenge. When a prospective opponent faces us, we put up our fists, ready to defend our territory. Has this mentality…
Cannabis Webinar Insights
In November, Julia Dales, Associate Lawyer with Dentons, joined SIRC through a webinar to discuss cannabis laws in Canada. The webinar was designed to increase understanding of the law and where cannabis use and possession is permitted and not permitted; and to provide insight to help sport organizations create policies to govern how cannabis is treated…
Competently Courageous
Courage is an important trait for change agents. Being “competently courageous” can create the right conditions for action, whether your goal is to implement a new team selection process, or address workplace harassment. Key to success is a set of attitudes and behaviours that include building a good reputation, becoming a master of good timing,…
Travelling for Work
While many are concerned with reducing the negative effects of travelling on athletes, relatively less attention is paid to the effects for sport administrators, coaches and support staff. Research indicates travelling for work is bad for your health, increasing your risk of physical and mental health issues. Making healthy eating choices and sticking to an…
Can we better Retain Sport Officials by Asking Them to Do More? The Opportunity of “Stage-appropriate Officiating”
Having and keeping enough qualified officials is a challenge for many sport organizations. Could we retain them by asking them to do more? It may seem counter-intuitive, but research into the challenges faced by sport officials and what motivates them suggests “stage-appropriate officiating” may provide an opportunity to retain officials while supporting quality sport experiences…
Workplace Wellness
According to research by the Conference Board of Canada, workplace health and wellness was estimated to be a booming $6 billion industry and set to permeate 78% of workplaces in 2016. This trend has continued to grow throughout 2017 with workplaces exploring various ways to ensure the well-being of their employees. And while creating a…