What is a T-Group?

A T-Group is an experiential learning group in which facilitators and participants engage in conversations that provide the opportunity to learn about themselves and each other and practice interpersonal skills. Participants set their own goals, often related to more effective communication, giving feedback or conflict skills. Over time the participants in the group build trust and intimacy and may progress to engage in deeper substantive issues. There is no predetermined agenda for a T-Group so it is left to the participants to decide how to use their time and to determine group norms.

Who should attend?

This workshop is geared toward executives and other leaders seeking to increase their influence and impact and improve their communication and relationship skills. 

This experience is for you if:

• You are committed to growing as a leader and as a person

• You believe interpersonal influence moves the needle

• You’re willing to challenge yourself and be challenged by others

No prior T-Group experience is necessary, though we welcome Stanford GSB alums who would like to re-visit their T-Group experience.

What can I expect?

Every T-Group is unique, but you can expect that if you show up ready to experiment, connect and learn, you will be met by your fellow participants who will earnestly engage with you on your learning journey. You can expect to receive feedback about your impact on others, which may not always match your intent. You will be given the opportunity to engage in difficult conversations and to repair when you or someone else makes a misstep. You can also expect that your facilitators will do their utmost to support the group in creating a supportive, challenging, and safe learning environment. 

While T-Group is not therapy, it can bring up sensitive emotions and experiences. Our facilitators are well-equipped and experienced in supporting people in these situations, but they are not therapists. Please self-reflect on whether this is an appropriate context and time in your life to engage in this work. You are the best person to assess this.

What is the logistical rundown?

The Executive Influence workshop takes place over the weekend of Nov 15-17, 2024, on Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. Cost is $2500 per person. There is an early-bird discount of 10% for applications received by September 20th. Lodging and meals are not included though light snacks will be provided. Financial assistance is available. Upon acceptance to the weekend, we will send you additional details so you can book accommodations and travel, if necessary.

What if I can’t attend one of the sessions?

Attendance at all of the sessions is required for participation. If you can’t make them all, wait for our next weekend and sign up!

What if I’m interested but these dates or this location doesn’t work for me?

No problem! We will be hosting future weekends. Let us know here that you’re interested and what does work for you and we’ll keep you posted about future weekends and will take your preferences into account when planning.

Also, we are also not the only shop in town! Check out these awesome programs from respected colleagues:

• Intro T-Group Weekend from Stanford’s Graduate School of Business

• Intro T-group for Startup Founders and Leaders from coach Anamaria Nino-Murcia

What are some of the skills I will have the opportunity to practice?

• Building connection with others

• Engaging in difficult conversations

• Raising and resolving conflict

• Expressing appreciation

• Cultivating and expressing empathy

• Listening actively

• Expressing vulnerability

• Speaking up for your needs and advocating for yourself

• Supporting and allying with others

• Articulating your values

• Giving feedback so that the receiver can hear it

• Managing your own defensiveness

• Identifying and articulating your own emotions

• Self-compassion

• Understanding your own influence

• Expressing yourself and being known

• Connecting across differences

• Observing and understanding group dynamics

• Playing different roles in a group

What can I expect from the facilitators?

You can expect your facilitators to do their utmost to ensure a productive and safe learning environment for the group. While open TGroup time is unstructured, Hanna and Mo have created a structure for selected learning modules to support skill development. Their role is not of traditional “leader” and yet they can function as guard rails, role models and in some cases as coaches to help you build specific skills. They will also participate in the group as facilitator-members. Hanna and Mo are not therapists.

Have other questions or curiosities?

Feel free to email Mo (mo@chispallc.com) or Hanna (hanna@hannahartleadership.com).

We will also be hosting Info Sessions to answer any questions that you may have live. Sign up here.