The Challenge of Leadership

“There were strong cross-cultural interactions with other leaders, valuable time spent with the cohort, and a creative and professional atmosphere, learning from professors and managers with proven experience and knowledge. I learned to listen to my peers and interact with them more strongly than I had before. Understanding this leverage has increased the possibilities of developing my organisation further – and in a smarter way – than in the past. Understanding my impact, my power to influence, and the way I behave to consciously drive human developments and corporate developments is the biggest insight from the programme. I use this at work every day.”

''The RSM Advanced Management and Leadership Programme covers all the topics relevant for my personal development. This, combined with RSM’s high ranking and undisputed reputation, made RSM the best choice!

The Challenge of Leadership for me was an eye-opener since this module addressed most of the topics and challenges I encounter in my leadership role. The break-room sessions certainly add value, as these allow for interaction on a much deeper level between the candidates from different companies who encounter practically the same challenges. Various sessions covering different topics create an open environment where direct feedback is provided, which I found to be of great value for building more confidence in my appearance,  as well as in my leadership style. This is something that I can directly apply and further improve in everyday life.''

I got great support in choosing the programme that best fitted my needs, and it was much more dynamic and interactive than I expected. The openness and eagerness for learning in the group pushed me to get everything possible from it and I enjoyed the interactivity, the assignments over the four days, and the combination of teaching and coaching from the skilled team. 

I could immediately implement a better level of listening – it gave me new insights on the spot. Addressing issues faster and taking the time with your team opens up the discussion for everyone and brings more insights. It encourages a growth mindset and enables everyone’s potential. 

I’m now keen to execute the valuable feedback I received from the group, take action and implement the lessons I learned – like combining different levels of listening, being the best version of myself and therefore the best authentic leader I can be. It’s important for me to address and understand my behavioural patterns so people can better understand what I can do to help. 

''RSM’s The Challenge of Leadership taught me how to reflect on my behaviour in stress situations. The programme is an inspirational and challenging way to learn current management theories, and to understand yourself better. There’s a variety of theory and practice. With the professional guidance of a coach and a professor, I learned inspiring ways of looking at my own management style. For me this was really an eye-opener.''

''My recent experience with the Challenge of Leadership program at RSM was truly transformative. I chose RSM because of its global reputation for combining academic excellence with practical insights, particularly in leadership. What stood out to me was the interactive nature of the sessions, where real-life scenarios were explored in depth, allowing me to reflect on my own leadership style.
Throughout the programme, I gained a deeper understanding of emotional intelligence and how it plays a crucial role in effective leadership. The programme equipped me with tools to better navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, and I now feel more confident in driving innovation and collaboration within my team.  The insights I gathered will allow me to inspire and motivate those around me to not only achieve their goals but to also embrace positive change. This programme has reinforced my commitment to continuous learning, and I’m eager to apply these new perspectives to create a more resilient and adaptable organization.''

"My experience of the five-day Challenge of Leadership programme at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM) was both enriching and highly relevant to my development path at TenneT. I chose RSM because of its clear, well-structured course design and its reputation for academic excellence as part of the Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR). The programme’s English-language delivery was inclusive and accessible, which is particularly important for me as a non-native speaker.
What stood out most was the programme’s comprehensive and practical approach to leadership development. The sessions were thoughtfully structured and covered a broad range of leadership challenges, combining real-world scenarios with self-awareness training. I especially valued the opportunity to work closely with other participants and experienced coaches, which deepened my learning and encouraged meaningful reflection.
Key takeaways included the four levels of listening, which I now apply regularly, and a deeper understanding of the goal, reality, options and way forward or ‘GROW’ coaching model, which has helped me to better identify the nature of challenges. I also learnt to approach leadership issues through three simple yet powerful questions. These insights have strengthened my leadership capabilities, improved collaboration, and enabled me to foster a more supportive and engaged work environment."