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Hello Im Gandhi

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  1. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from Baxsaa in Recruiting Workshop: (Updated 08/02/18)   
    Recruiting Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant or an officer it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit. Depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division, this can be done by hosting or co-hosting recruiting parties. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Note: This workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information, and find the best way to deliver it, just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What was your recruitment experience when being brought into KSI? What do you remember most about it? Did you have any questions that your recruiter wasn't able to answer at the time? Knowing the requirements to be eligible to be recruited into KSI, do you believe the standards are too high, or not high enough? (Gamer-score, amount of friends, etc..) ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The topics listed below represent the information most critical to Sergeants and Officers within KSI. Throughout the workshop you will cover a wide range of topics from the Code of Conduct, blacklisted communities, and required settings. While it is important you cover the topics below in detail, it's also important to read the room, and know your audience. Keep that in mind, and make sure that the way your present this workshop, and the way that you go about hosting it, still allow for a fun, collaborative, and open learning environment.
    Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
     
    1. How to find a recruit
    These are the 5 different ways you can recruit new members into KSI. Please remember that these are just the methods you can use but in no way does it guarantee you new recruits. This will depend on your ability to excite the member into giving KSI a try.
    Friend Zoned: This is the tried and true way of finding new members, to simply become their friend. Whether you find people throughout game lobbies and befriend them over several games or even days, you can slow pitch the idea of joining while also keeping an eye on how they play and act. You can also tap members of your squad for referrals that allow you to recruit people who might already have an idea of how KSI works due to their mutual friendship.
     
    New Phone, Who Dis?: It is as simple as this. Play games and send out a mass message. This recruiting style has been around for a long time and does have it’s benefits. Normally, the message will look something like these examples:
     
    Gone Fishing: An Xbox One recruiter’s best friend, Looking For Groups aka LFGs. This can be done via the Xbox or via the smart glass application on your phone. While this is very similar to the previous way, the difference here is you can be specific using “tags” to support your message to help weed out any unwanted responses such as mix required or a custom tag like “Recruiting”.
     
    Welcome to the Thunderdome – This can be a go-to, bread and butter, whatever you want to call it because its effectiveness is solely based on your abilities as oppose to the other methods. All you need to do this is a game, and depending on the size of parties each game allows, enough people to allow for a full party, minus 2 empty spaces for recruits. You simply fill out those empty spots with potential recruits, whether it is through others’ friends lists or loading up with a few randoms. As you’re playing, you can do some things to make recruitment easier such as security checking the members friends list, or paying attention to how they act and react to various stages of the game.
    Note: You can also do this on a wider scale by setting up teams of two or three in multiple parties, as long as each party has a recruiter present.
     
    The Coliseum: The one of a kind event where you pit people against each other to determine who is the better gamer. It can bring out the best in people and the worst in so many ways, but ultimately, it is a tool you as a recruiter can use to bring in people. Basically you run this in a basic format, 5 KSI members vs 5 non-KSI members and even incorporate a cash prize to “sweeten the pot.” This will show that being a member of your squad comes with the perks of competitive contests. That is appealing for many people because it can help them become better or simply hone their craft. However, micromanaging the parties can go tricky and you will need to be careful making sure the toxic and negative atmosphere does not take over the party.
     
    2. Recruiting Process on the Xbox One
    Security Check:
    The Security Check is normally performed while you are in a party chatting with your possible RCT. As you are chatting about KSI look through the friends list and clubs. Check friends list for multiple gamertags with same prefixes. Examples: KSI, MEA, DBD, TSB, J2H, XGN, XGC. Check clubs for other clans/communities and blacklisted clans/communities. Blacklisted Communities: J2H, GRM, MEA, XDG  Minimum age of 15, no maximum. Minimum Gamer-score of 500. Minimum of 20 friends. Mic Required Note: Watch out for people with 20,000 or higher gamer-score as well as people with multiple people with similar name; recruits are allowed to have up to three different individuals in different clans/communities. Explain that a Blacklisted community pertains to all of KSI and a Security Risked individual or community is divisional or squad based.
     
    3. Blacklisted Communities:
    Blacklisted Communities are communities that KSI has no affiliation with. The following are KSI's Blacklisted Communities. 
    J2H GRM MEA XDG If any of these communities are found on a friends list during security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Never recruit or associate with anyone with these members on their friends list. If ever contacted by any of these groups screenshot the message and contact a 7 or the highest rank officer online at the time.
    Security Threat Communities: If any these communities are found on a friends list during the security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Be very cautious of members associated with these clan/communities. You are not allowed to have these people on your friends list. The following is KSI's Security Risked Community.
    TSB  
    4. Explain what KSI stands for:
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. Be sure to repeat that KSI means Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity a few different times throughout your recruitment.
     
    5. Read the Code of Conduct:
    As you’re reading the Code of Conduct, stop periodically and explain what each rule means.
     
    6. Go Over Privacy and Profile Settings:
    Privacy Settings:
    Go to “Account” Select “Privacy and Online Safety” Xbox Live Privacy Go to “View Details & Customize” Go to “Profile” Others Can See Your Xbox Profile Change to “Everyone” Press B to go back one time. Go to “Friends and Clubs” Others Can See Your Friends List Change to “Everyone” Profile Settings:
    Go to Dashboard and press the home button. Go to Profile Image Select “My Profile” Select “Customize Profile” Edit Location to reflect: KSI (SQUAD/DIVISION) RCT Edit Bio to reflect as follows: Referred by ____________ (Only if it applies) Recruited by (Your gamertag) on (insert appropriate date) Hit "Done" to apply all changes.  
    7. Recruit Club/Tag Additions:
    All new recruits must be added to the recruit club or the recruit tag upon their initial recruitment.
    Recruit Club:
    Select their profile Select "Invite" Scroll downward to "Invite to club" Select your Divisions recruiting club Recruit Tag:
    Explain to the recruit that they will be adding the Division's recruit tag, and that all new members go through the tag at one point. Have the recruit add the tag. Send a message to the leader that holds the recruit tag regarding that you have recruited (insert gamertag here). Send a message to the leadership of the squad the member was recruited for. Note: Make sure you can see the friends list so it can be added to the recruit club and they have removed and not added back anyone that needed to be removed. When all of this is done, go back and check their profile to make sure the bio and location read correctly.
     
    8. Welcoming
    Send out a mass message to all KSI members welcoming the recruit, and ask them to send the new recruit a friend request. Doing this not only lets your squad, but also the division and the community as a whole, know there is a new member in KSI.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    Is there anything you would change about the recruitment process? Was there anything that you didn't fully understand, or still have questions about? Why do you think it is important to bring new members into KSI?
  2. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSIxAsuma 77 in Divisional Leadership Workshop (Gen-Div): (Updated 05/09/18)   
    Divisional Leadership Workshop: Management Characteristics & Ensuring Success
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is intended for those members of the community that have attained the rank of Co-Founder (CO-FO) through Division Leader, (DIV), and have now become part of the “7's staff”, or divisional leadership team for their respective division. The goal of this workshop is to explore, in depth the duties and descriptions of divisional leadership ranks. The characteristics and core principles expected of divisional leaders, and the steps to ensuring a cohesive and united leadership. Finally, this workshop will also cover how to create, maintain, and sustain divisional growth. The importance of strong leadership on the 7's level can not be understated. As you have heard in previous workshops, squads form the heart of this community. While that remains true, the leaders that overlook those squads, and help guide the members, and leaders within them can make or break their success. While there are certainly outliers, a squad will have trouble thriving in a division that struggles, and visa versa. They depend on one another, and that means theretheir must be leaders on both levels that can live up to, and exceed, the requirements of their positions. 
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department. 
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What do you think it takes to be successful in a Divisional leadership position? How do you define what a successful division is? What about a successful squad? What does it mean to be a good leader? What are the characteristics that make up good leadership? Is divisional growth more important, or divisional sustainment? In your mind, what would effective short term goals, and long term goals look like for a division? How would you structure an officer staff? How would you deal with officers who are not performing up to par? Before beginning, you can let attendees know that this workshop will share a similar format to the Train the Trainer workshop. At the core of it's curriculum, the same seven principles, some slightly different, but many the same, will be used to address what effective divisional leadership is. To answer the questions above, we will examine them through the lens of the “7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader”:
    Be knowledgeable in every area of your duties Control the room Energize your members Encourage Conversation Be an active listener Help your members find their “why?” Challenge yourself, and others, to do more _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The most important thing to recognize when becoming part of divisional leadership, and achieving the honor of placing a 7 in your name, is the knowledge that your rank is not for you, nor does it define you. The most common pitfall for new and rising leaders is their ability to fall victim to their own ego, and the idea that they are now above that of the squad level members, and are entitled to respect because of their rank. This idea is very far from the truth, and is often one of the many gateways to poor leadership, negative stigmas, and poor divisional structure. In fact, when transitioning from squad level leadership (General) to the rank of Co-Founder or higher, you are agreeing to devote your time and service to the well-being of the entire division rather than just one squad. Your entire focus and goal is to lead and serve those members and leaders you are over, as they are this community's life blood, and the future that will follow once you have moved on. This type of leadership requires a trust and respect that is gained, not by a title or rank, but by the actions, words, and commitment displayed by that particular leader. 
     
    The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader: Divisional Leadership Edition
    1. Be Knowledgeable in Every Area of Your Duties

    Upon becoming a full member of KSI, especially after climbing the rank to become an officer, and eventually a member of divisional leadership, it becomes very apparent just how much information and knowledge is both needed and provided. From clan-operations to web-operations, there are many important processes, formats, and standard operating procedures that are of critical importance for members to learn in order to fully partake in, and receive a wholesome KSI experience. As divisional leadership, it is important to not only personally attain this knowledge and information, but then in turn, be able to relay this information down the chain of command in a clear and repeatable way. From the standard recruitment process and Code of Conduct, to posting attendance on the forums and applying for departments and roles, extensive knowledge will help you to lead members, as well as answer the questions they are bound to have.

     2. Control the Room
    As a member of divisional leadership, there will be numerous occasions and situations to where you will find yourself “center stage” and with all eyes on you. Hosting divisional or Generals meetings, PO and Leadership workshops, regaining order in rambunctious parties, and disciplinary meetings are but a few examples where the flow and outcome of situations is determined by your actions and words. What these situations have in common is that a successful outcome is determined on your ability to “control the room,”, or maintain order. It's very easy to say that to attain this, all one would have to do is be louder than everyone, be aggressive, and simply assert your rank. While this can gain you attention and sometimes gain you control of the situation, the end results are nearly always negative as you end up looking like “the bad guy” and although the situation may be resolved, the results are not productive.
    Three of the most important tips in regards to controlling the room are listed below. For more tips and tricks, check out the Train the Trainer Workshop.
    Stay calm, and keep a steady tone of voice Maintain emotional control at all times Uphold a neutral, and professional position, regardless of personal feelings Regardless of what situation you’re facing, your tone of voice goes a long way in controlling the room. There is never a need to scream or yell, rather speak with confidence and a tone of firm assurance. Regarding emotion, it is crucial to keep yours controlled and in check, especially when whomever you’re speaking to is upset. Lastly, in issues involving two opposite sides or conflicts between members, keeping a neutral and open-minded perspective will ultimately produce the best outcome for all parties involved, including yourself. As a leader you will undoubtedly deal with situations that are difficult on a personal level. In those times, it is critical that you remember, and adhere to the ideas listed above. 
    3. Energize Your Members
    The task of keeping all your members focused, happy, and involved in community events hosted over the span of a couple months, to even years, has proven itself time and time again to be extremely difficult, no matter how good of a leader you are. However, if you can keep your members excited and energized, you are bound to have a successful and vibrant division, which in turn means a successful and vibrant KSI experience for both you, and your members. To achieve this, one of the many duties of leadership is to relay all relevant information to their members about current, and upcoming events, and tournaments on a regular basis. By doing this you can help to ensure that your members have every possible opportunity to be involved, and invested in the community.
    Some examples of these important events are as follows:
    Signature of the Week So You Think You Can Write? Weekend Warfare Montage Competitions OTM and OTY Nomination Periods This act alone serves as a huge way to energize members and appeal to every interest they could potentially have. Hosting events such as recruitment challenges, prize giveaways, and inter-divisional tournaments can also play a large part in motivating members and giving them a sense of purpose. When it comes down to it, your most important job is not hosting meetings, or even workshops, but rather making sure that the members in your division are having a good time, and want to be here. Use the tips listed above, as well as your own to make this a reality. 
    4. Encourage Conversation
    The goal of being a leader in this community and training others to become one as well, is not so we can simply “talk at” or lecture members so that they can in turn do the same to their subordinates, but rather promote conversation and a dialogue. Leadership cannot be simplified to one style, format, or idea. It is a complex idea that is unique to each individual person. While they may derive certain characteristics from your teachings, ultimately, the questions they ask and the conversations they have with those above them is what will shape their style. So, it is important to not only encourage conversation, but facilitate it as well.
    5. Be an Active Listener
    Out of all the core principles listed so far, being an active listener may seem to be one of the most simple characteristics, yet if taken seriously, can be of monumental importance to successful divisional leadership. Taking the time to listen to your members, regardless of their current rank or situation, can grant insight into members feelings, needs, and thought processes that can be used to ensure a happier and more productive atmosphere. People tell you exactly what they want or need whether they mean to or not, it’s up to divisional leadership to be listening for this and utilize the information gained.
     
    6. Help Your Members Find Their “Why?”
    Although most of our members join for the initial reason of gaming with other people on Xbox, and possibly gaining friends, the vast array of opportunities presented during one’s membership to KSI often changes their purpose , or  the reason “why” they are in the community. While some may be content with just attending game nights and getting assistance in the games they play, others may further their experience by taking up a position as an officer, or in leadership position, and in turn, making that their purpose. Even more so, some members may find that their passion lies in one of the several departments we have in Wweb Oops. Whether your member is the active gamer who just wants to play, the member who aspires to be on the Board of Directors in, or the next department head, it is crucial to help your members find their purpose and help guide them to their goal. Help them find their "Why?".
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do more
    Plain and simple, one of the strongest core principles of a good divisional leader is the constant self-motivation to better yourself and push above the standard, as well as promoting the other members, and leaders around you to do the same. No one is perfect, and there are always ways to better oneself. Increasing knowledge, bettering situation analysis, improving your decision making, or just being more kind to people in general, are all things that can require constant upkeep and enhancement. Complacency is the number one pitfall for leaders, and can end up crippling a division, and its squads if not handled appropriately. If there is a time where you believe that everything is finished and there is nothing to do, then you aren’t doing your job properly. Constantly reflect on your performance, and find new ways to improve.
     
     
    Divisional Leadership Breakdown
    Now that we’ve covered a more detailed perspective into the core principles of great divisional leadership, it is important to understand each rank as well as the individual breakdown of duties and responsibilities. You will find them listed below:
    Division Leader:
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Division Leaders who may become eligible for a promotion after 28 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Division Leader rank for at least a month’s time, maintaining a division by ensuring positive growth in numbers and member retention. Appointed for promotion by a Director and approved by a Senior Director.
    Duties: The Division Leaders must be able to exercise patience as they will be called upon to make many tough decisions that will affect the members in their division. They are the supreme rank of a Division; therefore they are role models to all the members in their division. Division Leaders are expected to uphold the Code of Conduct and show a professional and positive attitude at all times to all the ranks in their divisions. They oversee promoting and demoting within the division but cannot promote or demote to or within their own rank. They should stay active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section while encouraging others to do the same.
    Comments: The title comes with the responsibilities of running the entire division with good guidance and judgment. Also they are responsible for advising the division’s upper leadership through operational procedures, and expectations. They must attempt to participate in division meetings and communicate with the Directors and Senior Directors to ensure a good gaming experience for everyone.
    Abbreviation: Div L
     
     
    Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Founders who may become eligible for a promotion after 20 weeks of training and experience in KSI. This is also the position that starts any new division, whether it is a division split or a new division starting from scratch.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Founder Rank for at least a month’s time.
    Duties: Founders will oversee all the squads of the division, make sure all the positions below them are doing their jobs correctly, solving any problem the Co-Founder might bring to them, staying active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section. The founder rank is the lowest rank in the Division that can request to be a mod over their division section on the forums. They are responsible for giving permission to a General or Co-Founder to start a new squad. They are responsible to ensure the Division has a Recruit Training Program and that is being operated properly. Also makes sure his leaders are using the FTLA and other Leadership programs that KSI has to offer.
    Abbreviation: Fo
     
    Co-Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Generals who may become eligible for a promotion after 16 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the General position for at least a month. They must prove to have performed exceptional work as general and have growth in their squads.
    Duties: Co-Founders oversee 2 to 4 Squads in a Division. Co-Founders are to coordinate with all positions below them and ensure everyone is doing their job correctly. They have to be fully trained in the Code of Conduct, recruiting techniques, background checks, squad list management and basic problem-solving abilities. Co-Founders are to ensure that the Generals are running their squads in accordance with KSI policies and procedures. They are to be sure there is some form of officer training program in place to assist with the growth and knowledge of their squads. The Co-Founder should make sure his squads are keeping the clan management system up to date and all squad tags are being handled correctly. They are to confirm information is being passed down to the squads via their generals. They are also to work with the general on ANY and ALL officer promotions within their squads.
    Comments: They are encouraged to work closely with the Founder and Co-Division Leader to keep the division running smoothly.
    Abbreviation: Co-Fo
     
    CAP: Three Tips to Ensure Successful Leadership
    The last important aspect of being a part of a division's leadership team is that regardless of your rank, at the end of the day, you are still just a part of one larger team that works together to better your collective home.  From Co-Founders to Division Leaders, it is extremely important to work cohesively as a singular unit; each carrying their weight/workload, while striving to make the best decisions possible that will then impact the division in the most positive, and beneficial way. If you cannot manage to put forth a united front in terms of conflict resolution, decision making, and leadership, or if members of the team don’t carry their weight by fulfilling their duties, it can not only hurt the division, but cause leaders to feel “burned-out”, or in many cases, lose their will to perform. To ensure successful divisional leadership and cohesive teamwork, there are three major characteristics that you must keep an eye on:
    Communication Accountability Professionalism These characteristics can also be referred to as "CAP". The following is a breakdown of these characteristics which, if maintained, can help to ensure cohesive and productive leadership.

    1. Communication
    Being able to effectively communicate among one another when it comes to needs, wants, concerns, issues, or possible improvements, is an extremely valuable attribute to any successful team. The most important part of communication which is commonly overlooked however, is the ability to do so proactively. This means that rather than addressing things right before certain situations occur, or even after the fact, they are instead addressed ahead of time., This is the best way to avoid mistakes , and to be prepared in advance for any unavoidable circumstances. This is especially needed for times when you know ahead of time you will not be able to be present or fulfill specific duties on time. Notifying your fellow staff of upcoming absences or issues you may be having, will allow them to mitigate and help share your responsibilities, rather than frantically adjusting last minute which leads to sloppy and non-productive results. Communication is key.
    2. Accountabilit
    Accountability for yourself, your respective squads, and your division are extremely important when it comes to ensuring success. Of these three, personal accountability ranks the highest in importance, as you are the one who decides what role you will play in your division. If you do not hold yourself accountable for the duties and tasks of your position, you set a precedent for those who follow you, who in turn, will do the same. Another aspect of accountability is upholding your word. If you agree to something or tell your fellow members or subordinates you will do something, it is imperative that you follow through. Keeping yourself accountable for your actions, words, and prior commitments establishes a network of trust and respect, both of which are needed to be viewed as a leader and role model, rather than just a title.
    3. Professionalism
    A high degree of both control, and professionalism are needed for a variety of reasons when you are a member of leadership in this community. As a divisional leader, you set the tone, and are a role model for the actions, behaviors, and language used in your division. It is impossible to ask members to do something that you yourself are not willing to do yourself, hence the expectation of leading by example. The way you speak to people, your ability to control your emotions during tense situations, as well as your views and opinions all have a lasting and reciprocated effect on your division. Specifically, handling frustrations and who you choose to express those feelings to is a large part of professionalism. Rule of thumb, never vent down the rank structure. It is not uncommon to become frustrated with tasks, problems, or your position in general. However, these feelings are to be vocalized to members ranking above you, or of your equal position, not below. When you vent down, what you say spreads to the unwanted ears of members. Not only does your word spread, it is reinterpreted time and time again portraying things that may be completely opposite of what you said initially, especially when taken out of context. This can promote negative ideas and beliefs for members, especially newer ones, that can then create a negative atmosphere, and gaming experience for others. Keeping yourself professional at all times negates this issue and maintains high spirits and morale at the same time.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you, or that you didn't agree with? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve your overall leadership? Which of the "7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader" stick out to you as most important, considering your own leadership style? Which of the three areas of "CAP" do you believe you are strongest in? Weakest? Where do you see yourself in a year's time? Has it changed since the last time you took a workshop?
  3. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Gosuko in Divisional Leadership Workshop (Gen-Div): (Updated 05/09/18)   
    Divisional Leadership Workshop: Management Characteristics & Ensuring Success
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is intended for those members of the community that have attained the rank of Co-Founder (CO-FO) through Division Leader, (DIV), and have now become part of the “7's staff”, or divisional leadership team for their respective division. The goal of this workshop is to explore, in depth the duties and descriptions of divisional leadership ranks. The characteristics and core principles expected of divisional leaders, and the steps to ensuring a cohesive and united leadership. Finally, this workshop will also cover how to create, maintain, and sustain divisional growth. The importance of strong leadership on the 7's level can not be understated. As you have heard in previous workshops, squads form the heart of this community. While that remains true, the leaders that overlook those squads, and help guide the members, and leaders within them can make or break their success. While there are certainly outliers, a squad will have trouble thriving in a division that struggles, and visa versa. They depend on one another, and that means theretheir must be leaders on both levels that can live up to, and exceed, the requirements of their positions. 
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department. 
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What do you think it takes to be successful in a Divisional leadership position? How do you define what a successful division is? What about a successful squad? What does it mean to be a good leader? What are the characteristics that make up good leadership? Is divisional growth more important, or divisional sustainment? In your mind, what would effective short term goals, and long term goals look like for a division? How would you structure an officer staff? How would you deal with officers who are not performing up to par? Before beginning, you can let attendees know that this workshop will share a similar format to the Train the Trainer workshop. At the core of it's curriculum, the same seven principles, some slightly different, but many the same, will be used to address what effective divisional leadership is. To answer the questions above, we will examine them through the lens of the “7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader”:
    Be knowledgeable in every area of your duties Control the room Energize your members Encourage Conversation Be an active listener Help your members find their “why?” Challenge yourself, and others, to do more _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The most important thing to recognize when becoming part of divisional leadership, and achieving the honor of placing a 7 in your name, is the knowledge that your rank is not for you, nor does it define you. The most common pitfall for new and rising leaders is their ability to fall victim to their own ego, and the idea that they are now above that of the squad level members, and are entitled to respect because of their rank. This idea is very far from the truth, and is often one of the many gateways to poor leadership, negative stigmas, and poor divisional structure. In fact, when transitioning from squad level leadership (General) to the rank of Co-Founder or higher, you are agreeing to devote your time and service to the well-being of the entire division rather than just one squad. Your entire focus and goal is to lead and serve those members and leaders you are over, as they are this community's life blood, and the future that will follow once you have moved on. This type of leadership requires a trust and respect that is gained, not by a title or rank, but by the actions, words, and commitment displayed by that particular leader. 
     
    The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader: Divisional Leadership Edition
    1. Be Knowledgeable in Every Area of Your Duties

    Upon becoming a full member of KSI, especially after climbing the rank to become an officer, and eventually a member of divisional leadership, it becomes very apparent just how much information and knowledge is both needed and provided. From clan-operations to web-operations, there are many important processes, formats, and standard operating procedures that are of critical importance for members to learn in order to fully partake in, and receive a wholesome KSI experience. As divisional leadership, it is important to not only personally attain this knowledge and information, but then in turn, be able to relay this information down the chain of command in a clear and repeatable way. From the standard recruitment process and Code of Conduct, to posting attendance on the forums and applying for departments and roles, extensive knowledge will help you to lead members, as well as answer the questions they are bound to have.

     2. Control the Room
    As a member of divisional leadership, there will be numerous occasions and situations to where you will find yourself “center stage” and with all eyes on you. Hosting divisional or Generals meetings, PO and Leadership workshops, regaining order in rambunctious parties, and disciplinary meetings are but a few examples where the flow and outcome of situations is determined by your actions and words. What these situations have in common is that a successful outcome is determined on your ability to “control the room,”, or maintain order. It's very easy to say that to attain this, all one would have to do is be louder than everyone, be aggressive, and simply assert your rank. While this can gain you attention and sometimes gain you control of the situation, the end results are nearly always negative as you end up looking like “the bad guy” and although the situation may be resolved, the results are not productive.
    Three of the most important tips in regards to controlling the room are listed below. For more tips and tricks, check out the Train the Trainer Workshop.
    Stay calm, and keep a steady tone of voice Maintain emotional control at all times Uphold a neutral, and professional position, regardless of personal feelings Regardless of what situation you’re facing, your tone of voice goes a long way in controlling the room. There is never a need to scream or yell, rather speak with confidence and a tone of firm assurance. Regarding emotion, it is crucial to keep yours controlled and in check, especially when whomever you’re speaking to is upset. Lastly, in issues involving two opposite sides or conflicts between members, keeping a neutral and open-minded perspective will ultimately produce the best outcome for all parties involved, including yourself. As a leader you will undoubtedly deal with situations that are difficult on a personal level. In those times, it is critical that you remember, and adhere to the ideas listed above. 
    3. Energize Your Members
    The task of keeping all your members focused, happy, and involved in community events hosted over the span of a couple months, to even years, has proven itself time and time again to be extremely difficult, no matter how good of a leader you are. However, if you can keep your members excited and energized, you are bound to have a successful and vibrant division, which in turn means a successful and vibrant KSI experience for both you, and your members. To achieve this, one of the many duties of leadership is to relay all relevant information to their members about current, and upcoming events, and tournaments on a regular basis. By doing this you can help to ensure that your members have every possible opportunity to be involved, and invested in the community.
    Some examples of these important events are as follows:
    Signature of the Week So You Think You Can Write? Weekend Warfare Montage Competitions OTM and OTY Nomination Periods This act alone serves as a huge way to energize members and appeal to every interest they could potentially have. Hosting events such as recruitment challenges, prize giveaways, and inter-divisional tournaments can also play a large part in motivating members and giving them a sense of purpose. When it comes down to it, your most important job is not hosting meetings, or even workshops, but rather making sure that the members in your division are having a good time, and want to be here. Use the tips listed above, as well as your own to make this a reality. 
    4. Encourage Conversation
    The goal of being a leader in this community and training others to become one as well, is not so we can simply “talk at” or lecture members so that they can in turn do the same to their subordinates, but rather promote conversation and a dialogue. Leadership cannot be simplified to one style, format, or idea. It is a complex idea that is unique to each individual person. While they may derive certain characteristics from your teachings, ultimately, the questions they ask and the conversations they have with those above them is what will shape their style. So, it is important to not only encourage conversation, but facilitate it as well.
    5. Be an Active Listener
    Out of all the core principles listed so far, being an active listener may seem to be one of the most simple characteristics, yet if taken seriously, can be of monumental importance to successful divisional leadership. Taking the time to listen to your members, regardless of their current rank or situation, can grant insight into members feelings, needs, and thought processes that can be used to ensure a happier and more productive atmosphere. People tell you exactly what they want or need whether they mean to or not, it’s up to divisional leadership to be listening for this and utilize the information gained.
     
    6. Help Your Members Find Their “Why?”
    Although most of our members join for the initial reason of gaming with other people on Xbox, and possibly gaining friends, the vast array of opportunities presented during one’s membership to KSI often changes their purpose , or  the reason “why” they are in the community. While some may be content with just attending game nights and getting assistance in the games they play, others may further their experience by taking up a position as an officer, or in leadership position, and in turn, making that their purpose. Even more so, some members may find that their passion lies in one of the several departments we have in Wweb Oops. Whether your member is the active gamer who just wants to play, the member who aspires to be on the Board of Directors in, or the next department head, it is crucial to help your members find their purpose and help guide them to their goal. Help them find their "Why?".
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do more
    Plain and simple, one of the strongest core principles of a good divisional leader is the constant self-motivation to better yourself and push above the standard, as well as promoting the other members, and leaders around you to do the same. No one is perfect, and there are always ways to better oneself. Increasing knowledge, bettering situation analysis, improving your decision making, or just being more kind to people in general, are all things that can require constant upkeep and enhancement. Complacency is the number one pitfall for leaders, and can end up crippling a division, and its squads if not handled appropriately. If there is a time where you believe that everything is finished and there is nothing to do, then you aren’t doing your job properly. Constantly reflect on your performance, and find new ways to improve.
     
     
    Divisional Leadership Breakdown
    Now that we’ve covered a more detailed perspective into the core principles of great divisional leadership, it is important to understand each rank as well as the individual breakdown of duties and responsibilities. You will find them listed below:
    Division Leader:
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Division Leaders who may become eligible for a promotion after 28 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Division Leader rank for at least a month’s time, maintaining a division by ensuring positive growth in numbers and member retention. Appointed for promotion by a Director and approved by a Senior Director.
    Duties: The Division Leaders must be able to exercise patience as they will be called upon to make many tough decisions that will affect the members in their division. They are the supreme rank of a Division; therefore they are role models to all the members in their division. Division Leaders are expected to uphold the Code of Conduct and show a professional and positive attitude at all times to all the ranks in their divisions. They oversee promoting and demoting within the division but cannot promote or demote to or within their own rank. They should stay active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section while encouraging others to do the same.
    Comments: The title comes with the responsibilities of running the entire division with good guidance and judgment. Also they are responsible for advising the division’s upper leadership through operational procedures, and expectations. They must attempt to participate in division meetings and communicate with the Directors and Senior Directors to ensure a good gaming experience for everyone.
    Abbreviation: Div L
     
     
    Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Founders who may become eligible for a promotion after 20 weeks of training and experience in KSI. This is also the position that starts any new division, whether it is a division split or a new division starting from scratch.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Founder Rank for at least a month’s time.
    Duties: Founders will oversee all the squads of the division, make sure all the positions below them are doing their jobs correctly, solving any problem the Co-Founder might bring to them, staying active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section. The founder rank is the lowest rank in the Division that can request to be a mod over their division section on the forums. They are responsible for giving permission to a General or Co-Founder to start a new squad. They are responsible to ensure the Division has a Recruit Training Program and that is being operated properly. Also makes sure his leaders are using the FTLA and other Leadership programs that KSI has to offer.
    Abbreviation: Fo
     
    Co-Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Generals who may become eligible for a promotion after 16 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the General position for at least a month. They must prove to have performed exceptional work as general and have growth in their squads.
    Duties: Co-Founders oversee 2 to 4 Squads in a Division. Co-Founders are to coordinate with all positions below them and ensure everyone is doing their job correctly. They have to be fully trained in the Code of Conduct, recruiting techniques, background checks, squad list management and basic problem-solving abilities. Co-Founders are to ensure that the Generals are running their squads in accordance with KSI policies and procedures. They are to be sure there is some form of officer training program in place to assist with the growth and knowledge of their squads. The Co-Founder should make sure his squads are keeping the clan management system up to date and all squad tags are being handled correctly. They are to confirm information is being passed down to the squads via their generals. They are also to work with the general on ANY and ALL officer promotions within their squads.
    Comments: They are encouraged to work closely with the Founder and Co-Division Leader to keep the division running smoothly.
    Abbreviation: Co-Fo
     
    CAP: Three Tips to Ensure Successful Leadership
    The last important aspect of being a part of a division's leadership team is that regardless of your rank, at the end of the day, you are still just a part of one larger team that works together to better your collective home.  From Co-Founders to Division Leaders, it is extremely important to work cohesively as a singular unit; each carrying their weight/workload, while striving to make the best decisions possible that will then impact the division in the most positive, and beneficial way. If you cannot manage to put forth a united front in terms of conflict resolution, decision making, and leadership, or if members of the team don’t carry their weight by fulfilling their duties, it can not only hurt the division, but cause leaders to feel “burned-out”, or in many cases, lose their will to perform. To ensure successful divisional leadership and cohesive teamwork, there are three major characteristics that you must keep an eye on:
    Communication Accountability Professionalism These characteristics can also be referred to as "CAP". The following is a breakdown of these characteristics which, if maintained, can help to ensure cohesive and productive leadership.

    1. Communication
    Being able to effectively communicate among one another when it comes to needs, wants, concerns, issues, or possible improvements, is an extremely valuable attribute to any successful team. The most important part of communication which is commonly overlooked however, is the ability to do so proactively. This means that rather than addressing things right before certain situations occur, or even after the fact, they are instead addressed ahead of time., This is the best way to avoid mistakes , and to be prepared in advance for any unavoidable circumstances. This is especially needed for times when you know ahead of time you will not be able to be present or fulfill specific duties on time. Notifying your fellow staff of upcoming absences or issues you may be having, will allow them to mitigate and help share your responsibilities, rather than frantically adjusting last minute which leads to sloppy and non-productive results. Communication is key.
    2. Accountabilit
    Accountability for yourself, your respective squads, and your division are extremely important when it comes to ensuring success. Of these three, personal accountability ranks the highest in importance, as you are the one who decides what role you will play in your division. If you do not hold yourself accountable for the duties and tasks of your position, you set a precedent for those who follow you, who in turn, will do the same. Another aspect of accountability is upholding your word. If you agree to something or tell your fellow members or subordinates you will do something, it is imperative that you follow through. Keeping yourself accountable for your actions, words, and prior commitments establishes a network of trust and respect, both of which are needed to be viewed as a leader and role model, rather than just a title.
    3. Professionalism
    A high degree of both control, and professionalism are needed for a variety of reasons when you are a member of leadership in this community. As a divisional leader, you set the tone, and are a role model for the actions, behaviors, and language used in your division. It is impossible to ask members to do something that you yourself are not willing to do yourself, hence the expectation of leading by example. The way you speak to people, your ability to control your emotions during tense situations, as well as your views and opinions all have a lasting and reciprocated effect on your division. Specifically, handling frustrations and who you choose to express those feelings to is a large part of professionalism. Rule of thumb, never vent down the rank structure. It is not uncommon to become frustrated with tasks, problems, or your position in general. However, these feelings are to be vocalized to members ranking above you, or of your equal position, not below. When you vent down, what you say spreads to the unwanted ears of members. Not only does your word spread, it is reinterpreted time and time again portraying things that may be completely opposite of what you said initially, especially when taken out of context. This can promote negative ideas and beliefs for members, especially newer ones, that can then create a negative atmosphere, and gaming experience for others. Keeping yourself professional at all times negates this issue and maintains high spirits and morale at the same time.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you, or that you didn't agree with? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve your overall leadership? Which of the "7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader" stick out to you as most important, considering your own leadership style? Which of the three areas of "CAP" do you believe you are strongest in? Weakest? Where do you see yourself in a year's time? Has it changed since the last time you took a workshop?
  4. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi reacted to I am FuzzyMeep™ in Mentor Nomination   
    Nate has taught me quite a bit during out decade long friendship. We have worked many projects and divisions together and he has always been the type of person to push my perspectives and ideas to the next level. His leadership skills and adhd level of thinking has taught me How to absorb 35 different pieces of information in a short and over stimulating amount of time. He generlly has taught me to think forward, coming up with some ideas we plan on implementing in the forums soon, almost 3 years ago. His approach to the performance operations aspect of the community has definitely taught me about expanding on what we already know and redesigning an old idea.
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    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI DaKeech in The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader   
    The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader
     
    The 7: An Philosophy Explained
    The 7 in KSI doesn't just represent a sign of authority, experience, or rank, it represents a philosophy of leadership. Regardless of your division, your time in KSI, or your own personal journey, the 7 is something that all members notice as unique, and special. Beyond a piece of our gamertag, it also represents the core principles that all members of KSI, leaders or not, should strive to exhibit in their everyday duties. Whether you come or go in this community, you will always in some way, shape, or form identify with this symbol. It doesn't represent any one person, group of people, or division. It is all of ours, and together we ensure that our leaders uphold the seven core principles it represents to the best of their abilities. Any less is unacceptable. 
     
    The 7 Core Principle of an Effective Leader
    Be knowledgable, and know what you are selling Control the room Energize your members Encourage conversation, and keep people engaged Be an active listener Help your members find their "Why?" Challenge yourself, and others, to do more
  6. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSIxAsuma 77 in Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop: (Updated 03/06/20)   
    Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is designed as both a training and refresher course for all members of KSI that are in a position where they are responsible for training the future leaders of this community. Before beginning, it's important to acknowledge that there is never a right or wrong answer as to how to train. What may work for me, may not work for you, and vice versa. Nevertheless, it's become apparent that one of our biggest shortcoming as a community has been preparing the next generation of leaders that will ensure KSI remains relevant in the world of online gaming for years to come. This isn't necessarily the fault of any one person or any group of people, but the result of years of practices that have lead us to this point. The simple fact is this; we are not producing enough leaders to sustain ourselves. It is our intention that this workshop on training itself can begin to help minimize some of those issues. In this workshop you will find several tried, tested, and true tips for how to ensure that both your leadership and training is of the highest quality possible. Additionally, this workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information and find the best way to deliver it. Just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. As will be mentioned later, it's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What does effective training-in KSI look like? Is it entirely dependent on the trainer, or is it also dependent on the person being trained? Does training in KSI currently reflect that? If you could change one thing about the way training works in KSI, what would it be? If you had to implement one of your personal, squad, or divisional policies on a community wide basis to better the standard of leadership, and training what would it be and why? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. Nevertheless, they can be vague, and at times, hard to follow. Because of this, we have developed seven key principles that all leaders, and trainers, should strive to exhibit. The number 7 in KSI doesn't just represent a sign of authority, experience, or rank, it represents a philosophy of leadership. Regardless of your division, your time in KSI, or your own personal journey, the 7 is something that all members notice as unique, and special. Beyond a piece of our gamertag and collective identity, it also represents the core principles that all members of KSI, leaders or not, should strive to exhibit in their everyday duties.
           The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader:
      Be knowledgeable, and know what you are selling   Control the room   Energize your members   Encourage conversation and keep people engaged   Be an active listener   Help your members find their "Why?"   Challenge yourself, and others, to do more 1. Be Knowledgeable and Know What You Are Selling
    The basis of any effective workshop, is a well trained, trainer. To fulfill that role, you have to be comfortable, and knowledgeable about what you are teaching. It can't be the first time you've gone over the material. You have to understand the heart of the information, the key points, and the takeaways, as well as how to convey all of that in a way that is engaging, interactive, and informative. If necessary, have a copy of the information next to you. Be careful though, because you don't just want to read off of a script. If you do, it seems forced, and can often times be harder for members to get through, as well as understand. Look through your training notes, make comments, highlight important pieces of information, and create questions. We have to look at them as tasks that need to be done, and need to be done well. What makes sense to you? Make a note of it. Did a question pop into your head while you were reading through it? Make a note of it. As you've probably heard before, if you have a question, so does everyone else. That fact is amplified 10 fold when you are the person doing the training. No matter what the topic you are teaching for that workshop is, find passion in it. You demonstrating passion for a subject, no matter how trivial it may be, will spread that passion to those being trained. You've heard it before; learning is contagious. We can't look at training and workshops just as tasks that need doing.
    Key Point: Know what you are selling: You can't expect someone to buy into what you are teaching, if you haven't even bought into it yourself.
    2. Control the Room
    Holding an informative and inclusive workshop first begins by establishing an effective platform for learning and teaching. Quite simply, this refers to your party. If your party is too noisy, too crazy, or too unorganized, no productive activity can occur. We all know this. Think about how you host a divisional or squad meeting. Is everyone talking at once? Are there crazy echoes? Are random people popping in and out every five seconds? The answer to all of those questions should be no. As the party leader and the trainer for that workshop, you should be in total control of your room. Basic steps can be taken to make sure this occurs:
    Invite Only Party Politely remove any non-essential guests or members. Make sure everyone knows the ground rules of the party, and its' purpose. Make sure the only person who has an active mic, is the person who has the floor. Come up with a way to signal questions, and or comments (i.e posting in the party chat, on KiK, or by private message). Random outbursts lead to unnecessary chaos. Give ample opportunity for interactive comments, questions, and discussion. The more active the party as a whole while still being structured, the better the learning experience will be. Make sure that the party atmosphere is enjoyable. Ultimately everyone in the party is there to learn, and to progress through their KSI career. Realize though, that people are less likely to do that if they feel like the environment around them is too much like a prison, and too little like a forum for learning. Key Point: When it comes down to it, everyone has a different style of leadership, which also means a different style of hosting parties. No one can make you do it any one way. Regardless, these seven points above will ensure that you have taken the best possible steps towards ensuring that the environment you are creating is the environment to promote success.
    3. Energize your members
    As a trainer, you have to buy into what you are teaching. At the same time, your members have to want to buy into what you are teaching as well. In fact, this doesn't just apply to workshops. It applies to every part of KSI, whether it be leadership, recruiting, game nights, or any other duty/activity you might think of. There is no one correct way to energize members, or people in general. Everyone has different needs and desires. At the same time, there are several steps you can take to try and bring an energy that might be missing from the group. Below you will find several suggestions.
    Give equal ownership in the group: Make members feel like they are truly a part of what is going on, and not just bystanders to the process.  Giving ownership to all members doesn't mean giving up your position or responsibility. Whether it be in terms of a workshop, a squad meeting, or a decision, make members feel like their opinion counts. Hear them out, engage with their ideas, comments, and questions. Take their input to heart, and help it inform your decision making process. Give everyone a voice, and a way to use it productively. Model enthusiasm and desire, even when it's hard: As a leader, and as a trainer, sometimes it is necessary for you to model the behavior that your members need to be exhibiting. If times are tough, sometimes it's up to us to lead by example and set the standard for what something should look like. The hardest part of this is doing it even when you don't feel like it's genuine. In reality, those moments are when it's most important. Members need to see that their leaders can put aside the difficulties and drama when necessary for the benefit of the group. Spend time engaging: We've all been there. We host a workshop, or a meeting, get the important info out of the way, and then go our separate ways for the rest of the day without ever engaging again. Sometimes that works. More often than not though, it doesn't. Your members need to feel like they aren't just another number. They need to feel like you genuinely care about them as people, and not just as subordinates. Whether it be during a workshop or a meeting, set aside some time to talk to everyone about something that isn't the focus of the day.  Get to know the people you work with. In the long run, it will be a benefit to you, them, and the community. Honor individual members: Everyone likes to be recognized, even for the smallest of reasons. Whether it's during the training itself, or through the course of your daily duties and interactions, take time to recognize the little things. During your workshop did someone have an excellent answer to a question? If so, point it out and praise it. Did someone ask a thought provoking question? If so, point it out and praise it. Over the course of the week, did a SGT help officers in the squad bring in new recruits, or perhaps helped to host a workshop or a game night? If so, point it out and praise it. Take the time to make it a part of your regular routine to single out those moments. Honor their achievements, and they will honor the faith you put in them. Celebrate the little things: Much like the previous point, take the time to find the little things in both KSI, and life to point out. Celebrate them. Maybe you grew five members in a week. Maybe you had 100% completion of a certain workshop. These are the positive and uplifting things that members, and the community at large need to hear about. They might seem trivial to you at the time, but a small action such as that might make the world of difference in the development of a leader,  the growth of a division, or the success of the community. Ask questions: No moment where you are a leader, whether it be a workshop, a meeting, or a recruiting party should be one sided. Building off of what has already been mentioned, make sure that you take the time to also be a participant. Ask members questions, and truly hear out their answers. Ask members their opinions on issues, or for their ideas. Ask them for their comments and their input, and strive to incorporate them in any way that might be possible. Again, make them feel like equal members of the group. Have fun: It doesn't matter if it's a workshop, squad meeting, recruiting party, or game night, you need to make sure that you, and your members are having fun . If it's always all business, then for the majority of people, there's nothing to really look forward to. Only a select few members enjoy the day to day grind. For most, this community is an opportunity to find an amazing group of people to spend time, and game with. While doing that though, they also naturally take their place in this community, whether it be as a SGT, or as a Senior Director. If you're hosting a workshop, or maybe even a squad meeting, don't be afraid to take a break or two to chat, or play a game.  Again, in the larger sense, make sure you are staying on topic and getting done what needs to be done, but at the same time, don't let the job become more important than the reason we are all here. Key Point: There is no one way to energize members. Part of that comes down to your leadership and training style. However, the most important thing we all need to realize is that, no matter our ranks, we are all in this community for the same reason. If someone feels like they aren't valued, then they don't value the community around them. The seven strategies above can help you to make sure that your members, regardless of setting, are energized and willing to move forward as productive members of KSI.
    4. Encourage Conversation and Keep Members Engaged
    We already touched on this above, but as a trainer and a leader, it's imperative to encourage conversation at all times. Through this you will find that by and large, members are more engaged, and interested in the community around them.  Naturally, creating an environment that encourages open conversation doesn't come easily to everyone. In many cases, it is a skill that has to be learned over time, and through practice. With that in mind, it is still a skill that must be learned, and put into practice if you hope to be the best trainer and leader possible. Again, like most of the items listed above, this can be implemented in any part of your KSI life, or life in general. Below you will find several tricks listed that can help you begin to create an environment of healthy conversation.
    Ask a simple question, no matter the topic. Ask open ended questions that foster larger conversation. Inquire about their interests, Xbox or not. Come up with conversation starters ahead of time. Invite conversation, but don't require it. Be the facilitator, and direct the conversation. Don't give up if conversation doesn't come easy, keep at it. Key Point: Engagement is the key to any successful venture, whether it be a workshop, the building of a squad, or the community at large. The basis of an engaged community are members who are are actively involved with the world around them. Conversation is perhaps the most critical piece of the puzzle that promotes this kind of engagement, therefore it is absolutely critical that as leaders, mentors, and trainers we take very possible opportunity to encourage it.
    5. Be An Active Listener
    If all goes to plan, you've taken the steps necessary to get your members talking. Now it's time to listen, and one of the hardest things for any person to do is actively listen. The definition of active listening means that the listener fully concentrates, understands, and analyzes what is being said. This means that when your members are communicating you have to fully engage with what they are saying by listening, responding, and participating with them. Beyond that, being an active listener means just being there to lend and ear when needed. You want your members to be actively engaged, and communicating, but part of that also means being willing to hear what they are saying.
    Key Point: Encourage your members to be actively engaged and communicate, but make sure you as a leader and trainer are lending an open ear to truly hear, and understand what is being said.
    6. Help Your Members Find Their "Why?"
    Why are you in KSI? That's the question that lies at the center of this community. When we were initially recruited, we all were sold by one point, or another of the community. It might have been the tournaments, the organized structures, or the endless people to game with. In many ways, we join KSI twice. Our initial recruitment becomes blurry with time, but the moment where you decide what path you are going to take moving forward sticks with you for as long as your association with the community, and beyond. If you ask any leader in the community about why they are here, they would give you a different answer each time. Some are here because they believe in providing a safe and constructive online gaming environment, while others are just here to have fun. As trainers and leaders, one of the biggest jobs you have is to help your members find their "Why?". Not all of them are going to continue on to become leaders themselves. Some of them might end up leaving, while others might decide to just hang out and game. Others still will choose the path that takes them up the ladder of leadership. Regardless of their choice, it's imperative to ensure that you take every possible opportunity to help them find their drive in this community.
    Key Point: We all have our "Why". Help your members find theirs.
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do More
    "Be the change you want to be in KSI".
    Many of us have heard this quote, and many more of you will hear it in the future. How many of us actually take it to heart? KSI, like any community, is only as strong as its' members. Unfortunately, like in life, we sometimes get stuck in our routine. It becomes dull, and we start to just go through the paces, day after day. Even though it may be difficult, as leaders it is important that you strive to make sure that doesn't happen. Each day you need to challenge not only others, but yourself to do more. Reflect on the past, and try to improve on it. Is there something that you only put 50% effort into? Is there a workshop that you didn't put your whole heart into? If so, learn from it, and push yourself to do better. Do the same for the members around you. If you see someone putting in minimal effort, challenge them to take it up a notch. Don't get comfortable. Challenge yourself, and others to do more, every day, no matter the circumstances.
    Key Point: Progress happens with or without you. The question is, do you want to be a part of shaping the future?
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
     
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? Analyzing your own training, and leadership style, do you see anything that you need to change? Perhaps anything you need to work on, or adjust? If not, what do you think makes your style of leadership and training strong? Is there anything that others can take from you? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve both your training, and overall leadership? What is at least one thing you can, and will change, in terms of your leadership, and training moving forward?
  7. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Muffin77 in Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop: (Updated 03/06/20)   
    Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is designed as both a training and refresher course for all members of KSI that are in a position where they are responsible for training the future leaders of this community. Before beginning, it's important to acknowledge that there is never a right or wrong answer as to how to train. What may work for me, may not work for you, and vice versa. Nevertheless, it's become apparent that one of our biggest shortcoming as a community has been preparing the next generation of leaders that will ensure KSI remains relevant in the world of online gaming for years to come. This isn't necessarily the fault of any one person or any group of people, but the result of years of practices that have lead us to this point. The simple fact is this; we are not producing enough leaders to sustain ourselves. It is our intention that this workshop on training itself can begin to help minimize some of those issues. In this workshop you will find several tried, tested, and true tips for how to ensure that both your leadership and training is of the highest quality possible. Additionally, this workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information and find the best way to deliver it. Just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. As will be mentioned later, it's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What does effective training-in KSI look like? Is it entirely dependent on the trainer, or is it also dependent on the person being trained? Does training in KSI currently reflect that? If you could change one thing about the way training works in KSI, what would it be? If you had to implement one of your personal, squad, or divisional policies on a community wide basis to better the standard of leadership, and training what would it be and why? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. Nevertheless, they can be vague, and at times, hard to follow. Because of this, we have developed seven key principles that all leaders, and trainers, should strive to exhibit. The number 7 in KSI doesn't just represent a sign of authority, experience, or rank, it represents a philosophy of leadership. Regardless of your division, your time in KSI, or your own personal journey, the 7 is something that all members notice as unique, and special. Beyond a piece of our gamertag and collective identity, it also represents the core principles that all members of KSI, leaders or not, should strive to exhibit in their everyday duties.
           The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader:
      Be knowledgeable, and know what you are selling   Control the room   Energize your members   Encourage conversation and keep people engaged   Be an active listener   Help your members find their "Why?"   Challenge yourself, and others, to do more 1. Be Knowledgeable and Know What You Are Selling
    The basis of any effective workshop, is a well trained, trainer. To fulfill that role, you have to be comfortable, and knowledgeable about what you are teaching. It can't be the first time you've gone over the material. You have to understand the heart of the information, the key points, and the takeaways, as well as how to convey all of that in a way that is engaging, interactive, and informative. If necessary, have a copy of the information next to you. Be careful though, because you don't just want to read off of a script. If you do, it seems forced, and can often times be harder for members to get through, as well as understand. Look through your training notes, make comments, highlight important pieces of information, and create questions. We have to look at them as tasks that need to be done, and need to be done well. What makes sense to you? Make a note of it. Did a question pop into your head while you were reading through it? Make a note of it. As you've probably heard before, if you have a question, so does everyone else. That fact is amplified 10 fold when you are the person doing the training. No matter what the topic you are teaching for that workshop is, find passion in it. You demonstrating passion for a subject, no matter how trivial it may be, will spread that passion to those being trained. You've heard it before; learning is contagious. We can't look at training and workshops just as tasks that need doing.
    Key Point: Know what you are selling: You can't expect someone to buy into what you are teaching, if you haven't even bought into it yourself.
    2. Control the Room
    Holding an informative and inclusive workshop first begins by establishing an effective platform for learning and teaching. Quite simply, this refers to your party. If your party is too noisy, too crazy, or too unorganized, no productive activity can occur. We all know this. Think about how you host a divisional or squad meeting. Is everyone talking at once? Are there crazy echoes? Are random people popping in and out every five seconds? The answer to all of those questions should be no. As the party leader and the trainer for that workshop, you should be in total control of your room. Basic steps can be taken to make sure this occurs:
    Invite Only Party Politely remove any non-essential guests or members. Make sure everyone knows the ground rules of the party, and its' purpose. Make sure the only person who has an active mic, is the person who has the floor. Come up with a way to signal questions, and or comments (i.e posting in the party chat, on KiK, or by private message). Random outbursts lead to unnecessary chaos. Give ample opportunity for interactive comments, questions, and discussion. The more active the party as a whole while still being structured, the better the learning experience will be. Make sure that the party atmosphere is enjoyable. Ultimately everyone in the party is there to learn, and to progress through their KSI career. Realize though, that people are less likely to do that if they feel like the environment around them is too much like a prison, and too little like a forum for learning. Key Point: When it comes down to it, everyone has a different style of leadership, which also means a different style of hosting parties. No one can make you do it any one way. Regardless, these seven points above will ensure that you have taken the best possible steps towards ensuring that the environment you are creating is the environment to promote success.
    3. Energize your members
    As a trainer, you have to buy into what you are teaching. At the same time, your members have to want to buy into what you are teaching as well. In fact, this doesn't just apply to workshops. It applies to every part of KSI, whether it be leadership, recruiting, game nights, or any other duty/activity you might think of. There is no one correct way to energize members, or people in general. Everyone has different needs and desires. At the same time, there are several steps you can take to try and bring an energy that might be missing from the group. Below you will find several suggestions.
    Give equal ownership in the group: Make members feel like they are truly a part of what is going on, and not just bystanders to the process.  Giving ownership to all members doesn't mean giving up your position or responsibility. Whether it be in terms of a workshop, a squad meeting, or a decision, make members feel like their opinion counts. Hear them out, engage with their ideas, comments, and questions. Take their input to heart, and help it inform your decision making process. Give everyone a voice, and a way to use it productively. Model enthusiasm and desire, even when it's hard: As a leader, and as a trainer, sometimes it is necessary for you to model the behavior that your members need to be exhibiting. If times are tough, sometimes it's up to us to lead by example and set the standard for what something should look like. The hardest part of this is doing it even when you don't feel like it's genuine. In reality, those moments are when it's most important. Members need to see that their leaders can put aside the difficulties and drama when necessary for the benefit of the group. Spend time engaging: We've all been there. We host a workshop, or a meeting, get the important info out of the way, and then go our separate ways for the rest of the day without ever engaging again. Sometimes that works. More often than not though, it doesn't. Your members need to feel like they aren't just another number. They need to feel like you genuinely care about them as people, and not just as subordinates. Whether it be during a workshop or a meeting, set aside some time to talk to everyone about something that isn't the focus of the day.  Get to know the people you work with. In the long run, it will be a benefit to you, them, and the community. Honor individual members: Everyone likes to be recognized, even for the smallest of reasons. Whether it's during the training itself, or through the course of your daily duties and interactions, take time to recognize the little things. During your workshop did someone have an excellent answer to a question? If so, point it out and praise it. Did someone ask a thought provoking question? If so, point it out and praise it. Over the course of the week, did a SGT help officers in the squad bring in new recruits, or perhaps helped to host a workshop or a game night? If so, point it out and praise it. Take the time to make it a part of your regular routine to single out those moments. Honor their achievements, and they will honor the faith you put in them. Celebrate the little things: Much like the previous point, take the time to find the little things in both KSI, and life to point out. Celebrate them. Maybe you grew five members in a week. Maybe you had 100% completion of a certain workshop. These are the positive and uplifting things that members, and the community at large need to hear about. They might seem trivial to you at the time, but a small action such as that might make the world of difference in the development of a leader,  the growth of a division, or the success of the community. Ask questions: No moment where you are a leader, whether it be a workshop, a meeting, or a recruiting party should be one sided. Building off of what has already been mentioned, make sure that you take the time to also be a participant. Ask members questions, and truly hear out their answers. Ask members their opinions on issues, or for their ideas. Ask them for their comments and their input, and strive to incorporate them in any way that might be possible. Again, make them feel like equal members of the group. Have fun: It doesn't matter if it's a workshop, squad meeting, recruiting party, or game night, you need to make sure that you, and your members are having fun . If it's always all business, then for the majority of people, there's nothing to really look forward to. Only a select few members enjoy the day to day grind. For most, this community is an opportunity to find an amazing group of people to spend time, and game with. While doing that though, they also naturally take their place in this community, whether it be as a SGT, or as a Senior Director. If you're hosting a workshop, or maybe even a squad meeting, don't be afraid to take a break or two to chat, or play a game.  Again, in the larger sense, make sure you are staying on topic and getting done what needs to be done, but at the same time, don't let the job become more important than the reason we are all here. Key Point: There is no one way to energize members. Part of that comes down to your leadership and training style. However, the most important thing we all need to realize is that, no matter our ranks, we are all in this community for the same reason. If someone feels like they aren't valued, then they don't value the community around them. The seven strategies above can help you to make sure that your members, regardless of setting, are energized and willing to move forward as productive members of KSI.
    4. Encourage Conversation and Keep Members Engaged
    We already touched on this above, but as a trainer and a leader, it's imperative to encourage conversation at all times. Through this you will find that by and large, members are more engaged, and interested in the community around them.  Naturally, creating an environment that encourages open conversation doesn't come easily to everyone. In many cases, it is a skill that has to be learned over time, and through practice. With that in mind, it is still a skill that must be learned, and put into practice if you hope to be the best trainer and leader possible. Again, like most of the items listed above, this can be implemented in any part of your KSI life, or life in general. Below you will find several tricks listed that can help you begin to create an environment of healthy conversation.
    Ask a simple question, no matter the topic. Ask open ended questions that foster larger conversation. Inquire about their interests, Xbox or not. Come up with conversation starters ahead of time. Invite conversation, but don't require it. Be the facilitator, and direct the conversation. Don't give up if conversation doesn't come easy, keep at it. Key Point: Engagement is the key to any successful venture, whether it be a workshop, the building of a squad, or the community at large. The basis of an engaged community are members who are are actively involved with the world around them. Conversation is perhaps the most critical piece of the puzzle that promotes this kind of engagement, therefore it is absolutely critical that as leaders, mentors, and trainers we take very possible opportunity to encourage it.
    5. Be An Active Listener
    If all goes to plan, you've taken the steps necessary to get your members talking. Now it's time to listen, and one of the hardest things for any person to do is actively listen. The definition of active listening means that the listener fully concentrates, understands, and analyzes what is being said. This means that when your members are communicating you have to fully engage with what they are saying by listening, responding, and participating with them. Beyond that, being an active listener means just being there to lend and ear when needed. You want your members to be actively engaged, and communicating, but part of that also means being willing to hear what they are saying.
    Key Point: Encourage your members to be actively engaged and communicate, but make sure you as a leader and trainer are lending an open ear to truly hear, and understand what is being said.
    6. Help Your Members Find Their "Why?"
    Why are you in KSI? That's the question that lies at the center of this community. When we were initially recruited, we all were sold by one point, or another of the community. It might have been the tournaments, the organized structures, or the endless people to game with. In many ways, we join KSI twice. Our initial recruitment becomes blurry with time, but the moment where you decide what path you are going to take moving forward sticks with you for as long as your association with the community, and beyond. If you ask any leader in the community about why they are here, they would give you a different answer each time. Some are here because they believe in providing a safe and constructive online gaming environment, while others are just here to have fun. As trainers and leaders, one of the biggest jobs you have is to help your members find their "Why?". Not all of them are going to continue on to become leaders themselves. Some of them might end up leaving, while others might decide to just hang out and game. Others still will choose the path that takes them up the ladder of leadership. Regardless of their choice, it's imperative to ensure that you take every possible opportunity to help them find their drive in this community.
    Key Point: We all have our "Why". Help your members find theirs.
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do More
    "Be the change you want to be in KSI".
    Many of us have heard this quote, and many more of you will hear it in the future. How many of us actually take it to heart? KSI, like any community, is only as strong as its' members. Unfortunately, like in life, we sometimes get stuck in our routine. It becomes dull, and we start to just go through the paces, day after day. Even though it may be difficult, as leaders it is important that you strive to make sure that doesn't happen. Each day you need to challenge not only others, but yourself to do more. Reflect on the past, and try to improve on it. Is there something that you only put 50% effort into? Is there a workshop that you didn't put your whole heart into? If so, learn from it, and push yourself to do better. Do the same for the members around you. If you see someone putting in minimal effort, challenge them to take it up a notch. Don't get comfortable. Challenge yourself, and others to do more, every day, no matter the circumstances.
    Key Point: Progress happens with or without you. The question is, do you want to be a part of shaping the future?
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
     
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? Analyzing your own training, and leadership style, do you see anything that you need to change? Perhaps anything you need to work on, or adjust? If not, what do you think makes your style of leadership and training strong? Is there anything that others can take from you? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve both your training, and overall leadership? What is at least one thing you can, and will change, in terms of your leadership, and training moving forward?
  8. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI HARLEY 7 in Recruiting Workshop: (Updated 08/02/18)   
    Recruiting Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant or an officer it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit. Depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division, this can be done by hosting or co-hosting recruiting parties. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Note: This workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information, and find the best way to deliver it, just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What was your recruitment experience when being brought into KSI? What do you remember most about it? Did you have any questions that your recruiter wasn't able to answer at the time? Knowing the requirements to be eligible to be recruited into KSI, do you believe the standards are too high, or not high enough? (Gamer-score, amount of friends, etc..) ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The topics listed below represent the information most critical to Sergeants and Officers within KSI. Throughout the workshop you will cover a wide range of topics from the Code of Conduct, blacklisted communities, and required settings. While it is important you cover the topics below in detail, it's also important to read the room, and know your audience. Keep that in mind, and make sure that the way your present this workshop, and the way that you go about hosting it, still allow for a fun, collaborative, and open learning environment.
    Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
     
    1. How to find a recruit
    These are the 5 different ways you can recruit new members into KSI. Please remember that these are just the methods you can use but in no way does it guarantee you new recruits. This will depend on your ability to excite the member into giving KSI a try.
    Friend Zoned: This is the tried and true way of finding new members, to simply become their friend. Whether you find people throughout game lobbies and befriend them over several games or even days, you can slow pitch the idea of joining while also keeping an eye on how they play and act. You can also tap members of your squad for referrals that allow you to recruit people who might already have an idea of how KSI works due to their mutual friendship.
     
    New Phone, Who Dis?: It is as simple as this. Play games and send out a mass message. This recruiting style has been around for a long time and does have it’s benefits. Normally, the message will look something like these examples:
     
    Gone Fishing: An Xbox One recruiter’s best friend, Looking For Groups aka LFGs. This can be done via the Xbox or via the smart glass application on your phone. While this is very similar to the previous way, the difference here is you can be specific using “tags” to support your message to help weed out any unwanted responses such as mix required or a custom tag like “Recruiting”.
     
    Welcome to the Thunderdome – This can be a go-to, bread and butter, whatever you want to call it because its effectiveness is solely based on your abilities as oppose to the other methods. All you need to do this is a game, and depending on the size of parties each game allows, enough people to allow for a full party, minus 2 empty spaces for recruits. You simply fill out those empty spots with potential recruits, whether it is through others’ friends lists or loading up with a few randoms. As you’re playing, you can do some things to make recruitment easier such as security checking the members friends list, or paying attention to how they act and react to various stages of the game.
    Note: You can also do this on a wider scale by setting up teams of two or three in multiple parties, as long as each party has a recruiter present.
     
    The Coliseum: The one of a kind event where you pit people against each other to determine who is the better gamer. It can bring out the best in people and the worst in so many ways, but ultimately, it is a tool you as a recruiter can use to bring in people. Basically you run this in a basic format, 5 KSI members vs 5 non-KSI members and even incorporate a cash prize to “sweeten the pot.” This will show that being a member of your squad comes with the perks of competitive contests. That is appealing for many people because it can help them become better or simply hone their craft. However, micromanaging the parties can go tricky and you will need to be careful making sure the toxic and negative atmosphere does not take over the party.
     
    2. Recruiting Process on the Xbox One
    Security Check:
    The Security Check is normally performed while you are in a party chatting with your possible RCT. As you are chatting about KSI look through the friends list and clubs. Check friends list for multiple gamertags with same prefixes. Examples: KSI, MEA, DBD, TSB, J2H, XGN, XGC. Check clubs for other clans/communities and blacklisted clans/communities. Blacklisted Communities: J2H, GRM, MEA, XDG  Minimum age of 15, no maximum. Minimum Gamer-score of 500. Minimum of 20 friends. Mic Required Note: Watch out for people with 20,000 or higher gamer-score as well as people with multiple people with similar name; recruits are allowed to have up to three different individuals in different clans/communities. Explain that a Blacklisted community pertains to all of KSI and a Security Risked individual or community is divisional or squad based.
     
    3. Blacklisted Communities:
    Blacklisted Communities are communities that KSI has no affiliation with. The following are KSI's Blacklisted Communities. 
    J2H GRM MEA XDG If any of these communities are found on a friends list during security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Never recruit or associate with anyone with these members on their friends list. If ever contacted by any of these groups screenshot the message and contact a 7 or the highest rank officer online at the time.
    Security Threat Communities: If any these communities are found on a friends list during the security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Be very cautious of members associated with these clan/communities. You are not allowed to have these people on your friends list. The following is KSI's Security Risked Community.
    TSB  
    4. Explain what KSI stands for:
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. Be sure to repeat that KSI means Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity a few different times throughout your recruitment.
     
    5. Read the Code of Conduct:
    As you’re reading the Code of Conduct, stop periodically and explain what each rule means.
     
    6. Go Over Privacy and Profile Settings:
    Privacy Settings:
    Go to “Account” Select “Privacy and Online Safety” Xbox Live Privacy Go to “View Details & Customize” Go to “Profile” Others Can See Your Xbox Profile Change to “Everyone” Press B to go back one time. Go to “Friends and Clubs” Others Can See Your Friends List Change to “Everyone” Profile Settings:
    Go to Dashboard and press the home button. Go to Profile Image Select “My Profile” Select “Customize Profile” Edit Location to reflect: KSI (SQUAD/DIVISION) RCT Edit Bio to reflect as follows: Referred by ____________ (Only if it applies) Recruited by (Your gamertag) on (insert appropriate date) Hit "Done" to apply all changes.  
    7. Recruit Club/Tag Additions:
    All new recruits must be added to the recruit club or the recruit tag upon their initial recruitment.
    Recruit Club:
    Select their profile Select "Invite" Scroll downward to "Invite to club" Select your Divisions recruiting club Recruit Tag:
    Explain to the recruit that they will be adding the Division's recruit tag, and that all new members go through the tag at one point. Have the recruit add the tag. Send a message to the leader that holds the recruit tag regarding that you have recruited (insert gamertag here). Send a message to the leadership of the squad the member was recruited for. Note: Make sure you can see the friends list so it can be added to the recruit club and they have removed and not added back anyone that needed to be removed. When all of this is done, go back and check their profile to make sure the bio and location read correctly.
     
    8. Welcoming
    Send out a mass message to all KSI members welcoming the recruit, and ask them to send the new recruit a friend request. Doing this not only lets your squad, but also the division and the community as a whole, know there is a new member in KSI.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    Is there anything you would change about the recruitment process? Was there anything that you didn't fully understand, or still have questions about? Why do you think it is important to bring new members into KSI?
  9. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Banked in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  10. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from xKami in Recruiting Workshop: (Updated 08/02/18)   
    Recruiting Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant or an officer it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit. Depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division, this can be done by hosting or co-hosting recruiting parties. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Note: This workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information, and find the best way to deliver it, just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What was your recruitment experience when being brought into KSI? What do you remember most about it? Did you have any questions that your recruiter wasn't able to answer at the time? Knowing the requirements to be eligible to be recruited into KSI, do you believe the standards are too high, or not high enough? (Gamer-score, amount of friends, etc..) ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The topics listed below represent the information most critical to Sergeants and Officers within KSI. Throughout the workshop you will cover a wide range of topics from the Code of Conduct, blacklisted communities, and required settings. While it is important you cover the topics below in detail, it's also important to read the room, and know your audience. Keep that in mind, and make sure that the way your present this workshop, and the way that you go about hosting it, still allow for a fun, collaborative, and open learning environment.
    Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
     
    1. How to find a recruit
    These are the 5 different ways you can recruit new members into KSI. Please remember that these are just the methods you can use but in no way does it guarantee you new recruits. This will depend on your ability to excite the member into giving KSI a try.
    Friend Zoned: This is the tried and true way of finding new members, to simply become their friend. Whether you find people throughout game lobbies and befriend them over several games or even days, you can slow pitch the idea of joining while also keeping an eye on how they play and act. You can also tap members of your squad for referrals that allow you to recruit people who might already have an idea of how KSI works due to their mutual friendship.
     
    New Phone, Who Dis?: It is as simple as this. Play games and send out a mass message. This recruiting style has been around for a long time and does have it’s benefits. Normally, the message will look something like these examples:
     
    Gone Fishing: An Xbox One recruiter’s best friend, Looking For Groups aka LFGs. This can be done via the Xbox or via the smart glass application on your phone. While this is very similar to the previous way, the difference here is you can be specific using “tags” to support your message to help weed out any unwanted responses such as mix required or a custom tag like “Recruiting”.
     
    Welcome to the Thunderdome – This can be a go-to, bread and butter, whatever you want to call it because its effectiveness is solely based on your abilities as oppose to the other methods. All you need to do this is a game, and depending on the size of parties each game allows, enough people to allow for a full party, minus 2 empty spaces for recruits. You simply fill out those empty spots with potential recruits, whether it is through others’ friends lists or loading up with a few randoms. As you’re playing, you can do some things to make recruitment easier such as security checking the members friends list, or paying attention to how they act and react to various stages of the game.
    Note: You can also do this on a wider scale by setting up teams of two or three in multiple parties, as long as each party has a recruiter present.
     
    The Coliseum: The one of a kind event where you pit people against each other to determine who is the better gamer. It can bring out the best in people and the worst in so many ways, but ultimately, it is a tool you as a recruiter can use to bring in people. Basically you run this in a basic format, 5 KSI members vs 5 non-KSI members and even incorporate a cash prize to “sweeten the pot.” This will show that being a member of your squad comes with the perks of competitive contests. That is appealing for many people because it can help them become better or simply hone their craft. However, micromanaging the parties can go tricky and you will need to be careful making sure the toxic and negative atmosphere does not take over the party.
     
    2. Recruiting Process on the Xbox One
    Security Check:
    The Security Check is normally performed while you are in a party chatting with your possible RCT. As you are chatting about KSI look through the friends list and clubs. Check friends list for multiple gamertags with same prefixes. Examples: KSI, MEA, DBD, TSB, J2H, XGN, XGC. Check clubs for other clans/communities and blacklisted clans/communities. Blacklisted Communities: J2H, GRM, MEA, XDG  Minimum age of 15, no maximum. Minimum Gamer-score of 500. Minimum of 20 friends. Mic Required Note: Watch out for people with 20,000 or higher gamer-score as well as people with multiple people with similar name; recruits are allowed to have up to three different individuals in different clans/communities. Explain that a Blacklisted community pertains to all of KSI and a Security Risked individual or community is divisional or squad based.
     
    3. Blacklisted Communities:
    Blacklisted Communities are communities that KSI has no affiliation with. The following are KSI's Blacklisted Communities. 
    J2H GRM MEA XDG If any of these communities are found on a friends list during security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Never recruit or associate with anyone with these members on their friends list. If ever contacted by any of these groups screenshot the message and contact a 7 or the highest rank officer online at the time.
    Security Threat Communities: If any these communities are found on a friends list during the security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Be very cautious of members associated with these clan/communities. You are not allowed to have these people on your friends list. The following is KSI's Security Risked Community.
    TSB  
    4. Explain what KSI stands for:
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. Be sure to repeat that KSI means Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity a few different times throughout your recruitment.
     
    5. Read the Code of Conduct:
    As you’re reading the Code of Conduct, stop periodically and explain what each rule means.
     
    6. Go Over Privacy and Profile Settings:
    Privacy Settings:
    Go to “Account” Select “Privacy and Online Safety” Xbox Live Privacy Go to “View Details & Customize” Go to “Profile” Others Can See Your Xbox Profile Change to “Everyone” Press B to go back one time. Go to “Friends and Clubs” Others Can See Your Friends List Change to “Everyone” Profile Settings:
    Go to Dashboard and press the home button. Go to Profile Image Select “My Profile” Select “Customize Profile” Edit Location to reflect: KSI (SQUAD/DIVISION) RCT Edit Bio to reflect as follows: Referred by ____________ (Only if it applies) Recruited by (Your gamertag) on (insert appropriate date) Hit "Done" to apply all changes.  
    7. Recruit Club/Tag Additions:
    All new recruits must be added to the recruit club or the recruit tag upon their initial recruitment.
    Recruit Club:
    Select their profile Select "Invite" Scroll downward to "Invite to club" Select your Divisions recruiting club Recruit Tag:
    Explain to the recruit that they will be adding the Division's recruit tag, and that all new members go through the tag at one point. Have the recruit add the tag. Send a message to the leader that holds the recruit tag regarding that you have recruited (insert gamertag here). Send a message to the leadership of the squad the member was recruited for. Note: Make sure you can see the friends list so it can be added to the recruit club and they have removed and not added back anyone that needed to be removed. When all of this is done, go back and check their profile to make sure the bio and location read correctly.
     
    8. Welcoming
    Send out a mass message to all KSI members welcoming the recruit, and ask them to send the new recruit a friend request. Doing this not only lets your squad, but also the division and the community as a whole, know there is a new member in KSI.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    Is there anything you would change about the recruitment process? Was there anything that you didn't fully understand, or still have questions about? Why do you think it is important to bring new members into KSI?
  11. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from xKami in New Member Workshop: (Updated 07/09/18)   
    New Member Workshop: A Beginner's Guide to KSI
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is designed to provide trainers with the tools necessary to make every new member's introduction to KSI as successful as possible. Historically, when members are recruited, they are given the crash course to what this community is, what is does, and what their role in it could look like. Nevertheless, time has shown us that this has not always been sufficient, and at times, detrimental to the overall quality of our community. We hope that this new guide to membership in KSI will ensure that all community members start off on the right foot, with the knowledge that they will need to take their new environment by storm. The information that they will be introduced to throughout includes things such as the Code of Conduct, Rank Structure, elements of the Standard Operating Procedures, KSI's Open Door and Harassment Policies, the Forums, and the way departments function within the community. While there is an infinite amount of material that could have been included, this is perhaps the most important, and most relevant. In time, the hope is that much of the importance that has been placed on the initial recruitment can be moved to this workshop. A recruiters job is to promote our community, and the benefits it provides to potential members, and their friends. Once that has happened, it is also their job to bring them into the fold, while also giving them the tiniest slice of information necessary to let them proceed with membership. As a trainer, it is your job to build on that, training new recruits to the fullest extent possible on all of the information that is critical for our future members, leaders, and mentors. Additionally, this workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information, and find the best way to deliver it, just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department. 
    ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Before being recruited into KSI, had you ever had any experience with other gaming communities, or clans?  If you have had any experiences such as this, what were your communities, or clans, like? Why did you join KSI? How was your recruitment into KSI? What do you remember most about it? Does anything stick out in your mind? Did you have any questions that your recruiter wasn't able to answer at the time? Moving forward, what do you hope to get out of the community? What are your goals? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The topics listed below represent the information most critical to new members in KSI. Throughout the workshop you will cover a wide range of topics from the Code of Conduct, to how the forums function. At all times, keep in mind that the people you are talking to are still new arrivals to our community. While it is important you cover the topics below in detail, it's also important to read the room, and know your audience. In many ways these are still members who are still deciding if they want to be in KSI long term or not. Keep that in mind, and make sure that the way your present this workshop, and the way that you go about hosting it, still allow for a fun, collaborative, and open learning environment. Keep them interested, while at the same time sparking a lasting interest in KSI.
    Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process. 
     
    1. The KSI Code of Conduct, and Why It's Important
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills. This code of conduct clarifies our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.    
    The CoC can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
     
    2. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level   Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level   Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks. 
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
     Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
     
    3. KSI Clan Ops Structure
    As briefly touched on during the Rank Structure portion of this workshop, KSI is broken down into certain structures, and areas. As a new member of KSI, you are a part of what we call Clan Operations, or Clan Ops for short. Specifically, you are a member of a certain squad, which resides in a certain division. For example, you might be a RCT or PVT in the squad Icebound, which is part of the division Xero Degreez (XD). Clan Ops represents 1/3 of KSI, and is perhaps the most dynamic, and important piece of the community. It is where all current and future leaders are created, and without it, KSI could not exist. At a minimum, you should know what this looks like structurally, why it's important to you, and the key players in your particular squads and divisions. As a new member, it is expected that you know the rank structure from Recruit to Senior Director.
    The full breakdown of the Clan Ops Structure of KSI can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click to click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Further description of the structure of KSI can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/info/
     
    4. KSI's Harassment Policy
    K.S.I. will not tolerate harassment or intimidation of our members on any basis prohibited by but not limited to, the law, including race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, handicap, & disability. Harassment is governed by state laws, which vary by state, but is generally defined as a course of conduct which annoys, threatens, intimidates, alarms, or   puts a person in fear of their safety. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcome and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. Harassing behavior may include, but is not limited to, epithets, derogatory comments or slurs and lewd propositions, assault, impeding or blocking movement, offensive touching or any physical interference with normal work or movement, and visual insults, such as derogatory posters or cartoons. 
    KSI's Harassment Policy can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    5. KSI's Sexual Harassment Policy
    Any suggestions, or insinuations made towards any member of KSI for sexual favors may affect the terms and condition of membership with this community. Unwanted sexual advances, and inappropriate sexual behavior will strictly not be tolerated. It is the policy of K.S.I. that any harassment, including acts creating a hostile gaming environment or any other discriminatory acts directed against our members, will result in discipline, up to, and including blacklisting. K.S.I. will not tolerate any such harassment of our members by our affiliates. For purposes of this policy, sexual harassment is defined as any type of sexually-oriented conduct, whether intentional or not, that is unwelcome and has the purpose or effect of creating a gaming environment that is hostile, offensive or coercive. The following are examples of conduct that, depending upon the circumstances, may constitute sexual harassment: 
    Unwelcome sexual jokes, language, nicknames, advances or propositions   Written or oral abuse of a sexual nature, sexually degrading or vulgar words to describe an individual.   The display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, posters or cartoons   Unwelcome comments about an individual's body   Asking questions about sexual conduct   
    6. KSI's Open Door Policy
    The KSI Open Door Policy allows members to speak with Senior Community Leaders regarding a wide range of issues, from ideas, or concerns you might have with the community, to numerous other issues. We believe that in  keeping with KSI's philosophy of open communications, all gamers, affiliates, and members have the right, and are encouraged, to speak freely with leadership about their game related concerns. Nevertheless, members are encouraged to speak directly to the leaders in their chain of command when possible. One of the most important relationships gamers will develop in KSI is the relationship between themselves, and their leaders. However, should members need support from someone other than their leaders, the entire management team, the Seniors, and the Board of Directors are committed to resolving any issues,  listening to ideas, or answering questions that may arise. Topics may be addressed via the Open Door Policy include, but are not limited to: 
    Harassment Discrimination  Community Questions/Concerns  Innovative Ideas Recommendations Again, we urge you to go directly to your divisional leaders to discuss your game-related ideas, recommendations, concerns and other issues which are important to you. If, after talking with your leader, you feel the need for additional discussion, you are encouraged to speak with any Community Leaders, or members within the Human Resources Department. 
    KSI's Open Door Policy can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    7. Leave of Absence (LOA)
    A Leave of Absence within KSI is a period of time that one must be away from one's primary responsibility or rank, while still maintaining the status of their respective position. For L.O.A's it is standard that all members are required to inform the General of their respective squad, or their immediate superior, of their intention to take a small period of time away from KSI. Usually this period of time is for no more than about a week. If a longer L.O.A is needed, it is imperative that is discussed with the member's immediate superior officers. L.O.A's should not be denied, but an abuse of the system can, and will result in removal from a leadership position in KSI. Listed below are some of the more common reasons that someone may use to take a Leave of Absence: 
    Death of a relative/Close friend   Starting a new job/Adjusting to a new schedule   Family vacation   Wedding/Honeymoon   Moving/Loss of internet  Any other reason that may cause you to be unavailable for a period of a week or more KSI's Leave of Absence (L.O.A) Policy can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    8. Squad and Divisional Transfers
    Unfortunately, like in real life, things don't always work out in KSI. For one reason or another, you might find that the squad or division you are in just isn't the best potential fit for you. This could be due to a variety of factors, including game type incompatibility, personal issues, or issues with other members, or leaders in your squad or division. As a first course of action, we always encourage you to follow the chain of command, and try to resolve anything that might be affecting you. If that isn't possible, or nothing comes of it, then you may start the process of looking for a new home in KSI. After all, we would rather you find the place that is right for you within our community, instead of leaving it. Every single member of this community is vital, including you. Below you will find the process for Squad, and Division Transfers.
    Squad Transfers: As the member wishing to find a new home, you must be the one to request the transfer. No one can do it for you. To start the process, you must first contact your General to discuss the issue. He, or she, is going to ask you a series of questions, and try to find an in -house solution. If that isn't possible, and they approve the transfer, they will then contact the Co-Founder of the squad to discussion your intention. The Co-Founder will then talk it over with all of the Generals in the division to try and find you a new home. Once that has happened, the two Generals will then meet to sort out the details, such as a discussion on your professionalism, reason for transferring, etc. If everything checks out, your transfer will be approved. 
    Note: At any point in time during this process, any of the officers listed may deny your transfer.
    Divisional Transfers: Just like Squad Transfers, Divisional Transfers can occur when a member no longer feels like their current division is the best fit for them. Also just like Squad Transfers, the same criteria will apply. Always try to solve any problems in- house first before trying to find somewhere new to live. Without getting into the same repetitive detail, it's important to recognize that the process for Divisional Transfers is slightly different, and requires attention to detail. Just like with Squad Transfers, you must follow the correct chain of command when requesting a move. First speak to the General of your squad. If they agree to your transfer, they will then talk to the Highest Ranking Officer in the division to receive final approval. Once that happens, you will be directed to create a topic in the Divisional Transfer Section of the forums. Your Division Leader, and Director will then post their approval. If the division you desire to transfer to also approves of the move, the Director and Division Leader of the destination will also post their approval. It's important to note that when transferring divisions, you are not always guaranteed to keep your previous rank. 
    Note: At any point in time during this process, any of the officers listed may deny your transfer.
    Divisional Transfer Forums Area: http://www.ksiforums.org/forum/280-divisional-transfer-area/
     
    9. Departments within KSI
    Departments are a great way to get your name out there and meet new people, all while furthering your career in an area you already have interest in. Some of these are system based, while many are based on the forums, and in Web Operations. In an effort to improve participation and the overall quality of each department, there is a cap on how many departments a member can be a part of. Descriptions of each department can be found in the forums workshop.
    Not in Clan-Ops and not a Department Head/Co-Head: Max of 3 Departments Member of Clan-Ops and not a Department Head/Co-Head: Max of 2 Departments  Departments that count towards the cap are as follows: 
    AAP   Marketing News/History Team   Productions   Tournaments and Events  Apply for a department here (Make sure to read all posting guidelines first):  http://www.ksiforums.org/forum/316-join-a-department/
    10. KSI Social Media Outlets
    KSI has a presence on several social media pages, and messaging applications: 
    KSI Forums - www.ksiforums.org   Facebook - KSI Global @ksiglobalgaming Twitch - www.twitch.tv/ksilive and www.twitch.tv/ksilive2  
    11. KSI Messaging Applications
    Each division has their own way of communicating relevant information to each other. Squad game lobbies, meeting times, and other events are usually posted in the appropriate channels. The main applications KSI utilize are as follows: 
    Discord: Discord is available on PC/Mobile devices. Each division has their own server, and each squad has their own channel within said server. You must be invited by a current member to gain access to that division’s server, and usually Captains and above will be able to assign you the proper roles required. Departments, as well as other groups within KSI will also commonly use Discord to communicate.

     
    12. KSI Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information stored all in one convenient location. New members should be signing up for an account as they're being recruited in. Officers are required to sign on daily to update their divisional activity logs, and officer check-ins. Other helpful information that can be found is listed below and is explained in depth within the forums workshop: 
    Clan-Ops Information Center Division Transfer Area Divisional Sections Community Events Access to Department Areas Signups for events General Chat  
    13. New Member Certification
    Now that these members have completed the New Members Workshop, it is time for them to post notification in the AAP section to receive their New Member Certification. 
    You can find the AAP section of the forums here: http://www.ksiforums.org/forum/82-aap/
    In the quote box below are the steps that need to be taken to complete New Member Certification. To expand, and view the information, click on the arrow.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't fully understand or still have questions about? What are you most looking forward to with regards to your future in KSI? Do you plan to take advantage of any of the opportunities listed here? If so, which ones?
  12. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI nighmare in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  13. Thanks
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI xXsoldierXx in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  14. Thanks
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI DottZach in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  15. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSIAngryDave. in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  16. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Swag 77 in Divisional Leadership Workshop (Gen-Div): (Updated 05/09/18)   
    Divisional Leadership Workshop: Management Characteristics & Ensuring Success
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is intended for those members of the community that have attained the rank of Co-Founder (CO-FO) through Division Leader, (DIV), and have now become part of the “7's staff”, or divisional leadership team for their respective division. The goal of this workshop is to explore, in depth the duties and descriptions of divisional leadership ranks. The characteristics and core principles expected of divisional leaders, and the steps to ensuring a cohesive and united leadership. Finally, this workshop will also cover how to create, maintain, and sustain divisional growth. The importance of strong leadership on the 7's level can not be understated. As you have heard in previous workshops, squads form the heart of this community. While that remains true, the leaders that overlook those squads, and help guide the members, and leaders within them can make or break their success. While there are certainly outliers, a squad will have trouble thriving in a division that struggles, and visa versa. They depend on one another, and that means theretheir must be leaders on both levels that can live up to, and exceed, the requirements of their positions. 
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department. 
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What do you think it takes to be successful in a Divisional leadership position? How do you define what a successful division is? What about a successful squad? What does it mean to be a good leader? What are the characteristics that make up good leadership? Is divisional growth more important, or divisional sustainment? In your mind, what would effective short term goals, and long term goals look like for a division? How would you structure an officer staff? How would you deal with officers who are not performing up to par? Before beginning, you can let attendees know that this workshop will share a similar format to the Train the Trainer workshop. At the core of it's curriculum, the same seven principles, some slightly different, but many the same, will be used to address what effective divisional leadership is. To answer the questions above, we will examine them through the lens of the “7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader”:
    Be knowledgeable in every area of your duties Control the room Energize your members Encourage Conversation Be an active listener Help your members find their “why?” Challenge yourself, and others, to do more _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The most important thing to recognize when becoming part of divisional leadership, and achieving the honor of placing a 7 in your name, is the knowledge that your rank is not for you, nor does it define you. The most common pitfall for new and rising leaders is their ability to fall victim to their own ego, and the idea that they are now above that of the squad level members, and are entitled to respect because of their rank. This idea is very far from the truth, and is often one of the many gateways to poor leadership, negative stigmas, and poor divisional structure. In fact, when transitioning from squad level leadership (General) to the rank of Co-Founder or higher, you are agreeing to devote your time and service to the well-being of the entire division rather than just one squad. Your entire focus and goal is to lead and serve those members and leaders you are over, as they are this community's life blood, and the future that will follow once you have moved on. This type of leadership requires a trust and respect that is gained, not by a title or rank, but by the actions, words, and commitment displayed by that particular leader. 
     
    The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader: Divisional Leadership Edition
    1. Be Knowledgeable in Every Area of Your Duties

    Upon becoming a full member of KSI, especially after climbing the rank to become an officer, and eventually a member of divisional leadership, it becomes very apparent just how much information and knowledge is both needed and provided. From clan-operations to web-operations, there are many important processes, formats, and standard operating procedures that are of critical importance for members to learn in order to fully partake in, and receive a wholesome KSI experience. As divisional leadership, it is important to not only personally attain this knowledge and information, but then in turn, be able to relay this information down the chain of command in a clear and repeatable way. From the standard recruitment process and Code of Conduct, to posting attendance on the forums and applying for departments and roles, extensive knowledge will help you to lead members, as well as answer the questions they are bound to have.

     2. Control the Room
    As a member of divisional leadership, there will be numerous occasions and situations to where you will find yourself “center stage” and with all eyes on you. Hosting divisional or Generals meetings, PO and Leadership workshops, regaining order in rambunctious parties, and disciplinary meetings are but a few examples where the flow and outcome of situations is determined by your actions and words. What these situations have in common is that a successful outcome is determined on your ability to “control the room,”, or maintain order. It's very easy to say that to attain this, all one would have to do is be louder than everyone, be aggressive, and simply assert your rank. While this can gain you attention and sometimes gain you control of the situation, the end results are nearly always negative as you end up looking like “the bad guy” and although the situation may be resolved, the results are not productive.
    Three of the most important tips in regards to controlling the room are listed below. For more tips and tricks, check out the Train the Trainer Workshop.
    Stay calm, and keep a steady tone of voice Maintain emotional control at all times Uphold a neutral, and professional position, regardless of personal feelings Regardless of what situation you’re facing, your tone of voice goes a long way in controlling the room. There is never a need to scream or yell, rather speak with confidence and a tone of firm assurance. Regarding emotion, it is crucial to keep yours controlled and in check, especially when whomever you’re speaking to is upset. Lastly, in issues involving two opposite sides or conflicts between members, keeping a neutral and open-minded perspective will ultimately produce the best outcome for all parties involved, including yourself. As a leader you will undoubtedly deal with situations that are difficult on a personal level. In those times, it is critical that you remember, and adhere to the ideas listed above. 
    3. Energize Your Members
    The task of keeping all your members focused, happy, and involved in community events hosted over the span of a couple months, to even years, has proven itself time and time again to be extremely difficult, no matter how good of a leader you are. However, if you can keep your members excited and energized, you are bound to have a successful and vibrant division, which in turn means a successful and vibrant KSI experience for both you, and your members. To achieve this, one of the many duties of leadership is to relay all relevant information to their members about current, and upcoming events, and tournaments on a regular basis. By doing this you can help to ensure that your members have every possible opportunity to be involved, and invested in the community.
    Some examples of these important events are as follows:
    Signature of the Week So You Think You Can Write? Weekend Warfare Montage Competitions OTM and OTY Nomination Periods This act alone serves as a huge way to energize members and appeal to every interest they could potentially have. Hosting events such as recruitment challenges, prize giveaways, and inter-divisional tournaments can also play a large part in motivating members and giving them a sense of purpose. When it comes down to it, your most important job is not hosting meetings, or even workshops, but rather making sure that the members in your division are having a good time, and want to be here. Use the tips listed above, as well as your own to make this a reality. 
    4. Encourage Conversation
    The goal of being a leader in this community and training others to become one as well, is not so we can simply “talk at” or lecture members so that they can in turn do the same to their subordinates, but rather promote conversation and a dialogue. Leadership cannot be simplified to one style, format, or idea. It is a complex idea that is unique to each individual person. While they may derive certain characteristics from your teachings, ultimately, the questions they ask and the conversations they have with those above them is what will shape their style. So, it is important to not only encourage conversation, but facilitate it as well.
    5. Be an Active Listener
    Out of all the core principles listed so far, being an active listener may seem to be one of the most simple characteristics, yet if taken seriously, can be of monumental importance to successful divisional leadership. Taking the time to listen to your members, regardless of their current rank or situation, can grant insight into members feelings, needs, and thought processes that can be used to ensure a happier and more productive atmosphere. People tell you exactly what they want or need whether they mean to or not, it’s up to divisional leadership to be listening for this and utilize the information gained.
     
    6. Help Your Members Find Their “Why?”
    Although most of our members join for the initial reason of gaming with other people on Xbox, and possibly gaining friends, the vast array of opportunities presented during one’s membership to KSI often changes their purpose , or  the reason “why” they are in the community. While some may be content with just attending game nights and getting assistance in the games they play, others may further their experience by taking up a position as an officer, or in leadership position, and in turn, making that their purpose. Even more so, some members may find that their passion lies in one of the several departments we have in Wweb Oops. Whether your member is the active gamer who just wants to play, the member who aspires to be on the Board of Directors in, or the next department head, it is crucial to help your members find their purpose and help guide them to their goal. Help them find their "Why?".
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do more
    Plain and simple, one of the strongest core principles of a good divisional leader is the constant self-motivation to better yourself and push above the standard, as well as promoting the other members, and leaders around you to do the same. No one is perfect, and there are always ways to better oneself. Increasing knowledge, bettering situation analysis, improving your decision making, or just being more kind to people in general, are all things that can require constant upkeep and enhancement. Complacency is the number one pitfall for leaders, and can end up crippling a division, and its squads if not handled appropriately. If there is a time where you believe that everything is finished and there is nothing to do, then you aren’t doing your job properly. Constantly reflect on your performance, and find new ways to improve.
     
     
    Divisional Leadership Breakdown
    Now that we’ve covered a more detailed perspective into the core principles of great divisional leadership, it is important to understand each rank as well as the individual breakdown of duties and responsibilities. You will find them listed below:
    Division Leader:
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Division Leaders who may become eligible for a promotion after 28 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Division Leader rank for at least a month’s time, maintaining a division by ensuring positive growth in numbers and member retention. Appointed for promotion by a Director and approved by a Senior Director.
    Duties: The Division Leaders must be able to exercise patience as they will be called upon to make many tough decisions that will affect the members in their division. They are the supreme rank of a Division; therefore they are role models to all the members in their division. Division Leaders are expected to uphold the Code of Conduct and show a professional and positive attitude at all times to all the ranks in their divisions. They oversee promoting and demoting within the division but cannot promote or demote to or within their own rank. They should stay active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section while encouraging others to do the same.
    Comments: The title comes with the responsibilities of running the entire division with good guidance and judgment. Also they are responsible for advising the division’s upper leadership through operational procedures, and expectations. They must attempt to participate in division meetings and communicate with the Directors and Senior Directors to ensure a good gaming experience for everyone.
    Abbreviation: Div L
     
     
    Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Co-Founders who may become eligible for a promotion after 20 weeks of training and experience in KSI. This is also the position that starts any new division, whether it is a division split or a new division starting from scratch.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the Co-Founder Rank for at least a month’s time.
    Duties: Founders will oversee all the squads of the division, make sure all the positions below them are doing their jobs correctly, solving any problem the Co-Founder might bring to them, staying active on www.ksiforums.org and should contribute to their division section. The founder rank is the lowest rank in the Division that can request to be a mod over their division section on the forums. They are responsible for giving permission to a General or Co-Founder to start a new squad. They are responsible to ensure the Division has a Recruit Training Program and that is being operated properly. Also makes sure his leaders are using the FTLA and other Leadership programs that KSI has to offer.
    Abbreviation: Fo
     
    Co-Founder
    Description: This position is given to those Generals who may become eligible for a promotion after 16 weeks of training and experience in KSI.
    Requirements: Successful fulfillment of the General position for at least a month. They must prove to have performed exceptional work as general and have growth in their squads.
    Duties: Co-Founders oversee 2 to 4 Squads in a Division. Co-Founders are to coordinate with all positions below them and ensure everyone is doing their job correctly. They have to be fully trained in the Code of Conduct, recruiting techniques, background checks, squad list management and basic problem-solving abilities. Co-Founders are to ensure that the Generals are running their squads in accordance with KSI policies and procedures. They are to be sure there is some form of officer training program in place to assist with the growth and knowledge of their squads. The Co-Founder should make sure his squads are keeping the clan management system up to date and all squad tags are being handled correctly. They are to confirm information is being passed down to the squads via their generals. They are also to work with the general on ANY and ALL officer promotions within their squads.
    Comments: They are encouraged to work closely with the Founder and Co-Division Leader to keep the division running smoothly.
    Abbreviation: Co-Fo
     
    CAP: Three Tips to Ensure Successful Leadership
    The last important aspect of being a part of a division's leadership team is that regardless of your rank, at the end of the day, you are still just a part of one larger team that works together to better your collective home.  From Co-Founders to Division Leaders, it is extremely important to work cohesively as a singular unit; each carrying their weight/workload, while striving to make the best decisions possible that will then impact the division in the most positive, and beneficial way. If you cannot manage to put forth a united front in terms of conflict resolution, decision making, and leadership, or if members of the team don’t carry their weight by fulfilling their duties, it can not only hurt the division, but cause leaders to feel “burned-out”, or in many cases, lose their will to perform. To ensure successful divisional leadership and cohesive teamwork, there are three major characteristics that you must keep an eye on:
    Communication Accountability Professionalism These characteristics can also be referred to as "CAP". The following is a breakdown of these characteristics which, if maintained, can help to ensure cohesive and productive leadership.

    1. Communication
    Being able to effectively communicate among one another when it comes to needs, wants, concerns, issues, or possible improvements, is an extremely valuable attribute to any successful team. The most important part of communication which is commonly overlooked however, is the ability to do so proactively. This means that rather than addressing things right before certain situations occur, or even after the fact, they are instead addressed ahead of time., This is the best way to avoid mistakes , and to be prepared in advance for any unavoidable circumstances. This is especially needed for times when you know ahead of time you will not be able to be present or fulfill specific duties on time. Notifying your fellow staff of upcoming absences or issues you may be having, will allow them to mitigate and help share your responsibilities, rather than frantically adjusting last minute which leads to sloppy and non-productive results. Communication is key.
    2. Accountabilit
    Accountability for yourself, your respective squads, and your division are extremely important when it comes to ensuring success. Of these three, personal accountability ranks the highest in importance, as you are the one who decides what role you will play in your division. If you do not hold yourself accountable for the duties and tasks of your position, you set a precedent for those who follow you, who in turn, will do the same. Another aspect of accountability is upholding your word. If you agree to something or tell your fellow members or subordinates you will do something, it is imperative that you follow through. Keeping yourself accountable for your actions, words, and prior commitments establishes a network of trust and respect, both of which are needed to be viewed as a leader and role model, rather than just a title.
    3. Professionalism
    A high degree of both control, and professionalism are needed for a variety of reasons when you are a member of leadership in this community. As a divisional leader, you set the tone, and are a role model for the actions, behaviors, and language used in your division. It is impossible to ask members to do something that you yourself are not willing to do yourself, hence the expectation of leading by example. The way you speak to people, your ability to control your emotions during tense situations, as well as your views and opinions all have a lasting and reciprocated effect on your division. Specifically, handling frustrations and who you choose to express those feelings to is a large part of professionalism. Rule of thumb, never vent down the rank structure. It is not uncommon to become frustrated with tasks, problems, or your position in general. However, these feelings are to be vocalized to members ranking above you, or of your equal position, not below. When you vent down, what you say spreads to the unwanted ears of members. Not only does your word spread, it is reinterpreted time and time again portraying things that may be completely opposite of what you said initially, especially when taken out of context. This can promote negative ideas and beliefs for members, especially newer ones, that can then create a negative atmosphere, and gaming experience for others. Keeping yourself professional at all times negates this issue and maintains high spirits and morale at the same time.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you, or that you didn't agree with? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve your overall leadership? Which of the "7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader" stick out to you as most important, considering your own leadership style? Which of the three areas of "CAP" do you believe you are strongest in? Weakest? Where do you see yourself in a year's time? Has it changed since the last time you took a workshop?
  17. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi reacted to December in Performance Officer Guidelines (Updated 2/18/19)   
    Performance Officer Communication Guideline
    Guide Introduction: The purpose of the Performance Officer Communication Guideline is to equip Performance Officers with a basic understanding of how to conduct themselves when communicating with their assigned division's leadership. Remember that strong communication is key to the success of a Performance Officer. If we don’t communicate with the community, we lose the opportunity of changing the community.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Performance Officer Description, Requirements and Responsibilities
    Description: 
    Performance Officers are individuals within the community with exceptional leaderships skills who help maintain the performance of KSI.
    Requirements:
    1 Year of training & experience in KSI Achievement of at least a Co-Founder rank in Clan Ops Responsibilities:
    The responsibilities of a Performance Officer is to work with divisional leadership to help teach, create, and maintain strong foundations for lasting success. Performance Officers do this by providing their experience and knowledge as a leader within the community to help support their assigned division. Performance Officers are required to maintain strong communication with Divisional Leadership to provide support and they must communicate with fellow Performance Officers around common issues, and prevailing issues within the community. Performance Officers also ensure that the Community Education Program is being ran within the assigned division, as well as receiving feedback relation to the CEP. They must work with the Community Development Committee to update and maintain any and all workshops, guides, and information provided by PO & the CDC.
    Reports to:
    Chief Performance Officer Head of Performance Operations Senior Performance Officers Comments:
    As a Performance Officer you are expected to be an expert in KSI, especially as it pertains to the procedures and policies of the community. You are expected to be diligent, self determined, and confident in your leadership skills. Be open to learn more, and work constructively, always keep an open mind to new ideas. 
    ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
     
    Transparency
    Transparency means to be open and honest at all times. Simply put, say what you mean and mean what you say. Remember to be open minded with your assigned division's leadership about your goals as a Performance Officer and your goals as it concerns their division. Make sure they know you don't have a hidden agenda. You're not a spy, you're not there to "sneak around" or "get the dirt". Always remember that you're impacting divisions in a professional and official KSI capacity, we are here to raise divisions, not tear them down.
    Application: Don't use vague terms when communicating with your assigned division's leadership. Be to the point and clear. Remember that they have a lot on their plate. It forces them to try to figure out what you mean when you communicate. Lay it out there in laymen's terms and be ready to answer any questions they might have as simply as possible.
     
    Respect
    As a Performance Officer, you’re given the opportunity to work with selected divisional leaders in a very specific capacity. Be aware of the enormous amount of work that has already been put into divisions and you must always respect it. Understand that the people you’ll be communicating with care very deeply about the welfare of their division more than anyone else. Remember that you’re walking into an active situation and dynamics are already in place. There are histories, cliques, vibes, struggles, tensions, expectations currently in place and it’s your job to understand all of these over time. Never assume you know everything about your assigned division because simply put, you don’t.
    Application: Realize that you're never going to fully understand your assigned division and that's ok. Don't pretend to be an expert on another division, it's not your division after all. Don't speak about something unless you have a firm grasp on what you're talking about. If you're going to talk from experience, make sure it's warranted. Nothing is more annoying and less necessary than someone going on and on about how "they used to do this back in the day" when it has absolutely no bearing on the present situation.
     
    Confidentiality
    Never broadcast details or conversations you have with your assigned divisional leadership. Aside from reporting information and progress to Performance Operations staff leadership, no one else needs to know about the inner workings of your assigned division. That’s their business and it’s your responsibility to keep it that way.
    Application: Don't run your mouth. When you have discussions with your assigned division's leadership, don't volunteer to share that information unnecessarily. It's important to keep details confidential. This is not only for the protection of your assigned division but also for your own reputation. Leadership will be much less likely to trust a Performance Officer that runs their mouth.
     
    Empathy
    Realize that you may not fully understand the issues your assigned division is dealing with but remember that it IS your job to TRY to understand. You must attempt to put yourself in their shoes. Imagine what decisions you’d make if it was your place. Don’t discount or discredit the feelings of the divisional leadership. Factor them into the equation and use them when building a framework for progression and growth.
    Application: Be gracious and understanding in your communication. Validate the leadership’s feelings, whatever they may be. Positivity and optimism should always be encouraged. Negativity should be handled with a large degree of understanding. Take time, pay attention, let them know you’re listening and that you care. Having someone outside the division (you) show sincere interest can go a long way in establishing a strong future relationship.
     
    Humility
    You’re here to help the division mature and prosper. To achieve this goal you must advise, assist, and aid your assigned division. You’re not here to brag about your own accomplishments. In this equation, you are not important. Your assigned division’s health and growth is more important than your ego. Remember to stay humble, ask questions, make them the priority.
    Application: If humility is a foreign concept for you, you'll need to fix that. Greetings like "Welcome to the community! I'm EO's Performance Officer!" are completely unnecessary. Again, being a Performance Officer is not about flaunting your own accomplishments. It's about helping a division in as many ways as possible while letting them take all the credit for their accomplishments. Humility earns respect more quickly than just about anything else. If you want to be successful and respected as a Performance Officer, then you must put all your effort into helping your assigned division achieve its goals.
     
    Consistency
    Follow through. Say what you mean, mean what you say. Be to the point and be tactful. If you volunteer to assist in a tangible way, DO IT. If you’re asked for assistance, put yourself at your assigned division’s disposal. Be on time. Be ready with notes, details and ideas for improvement.
    Application: A big part of consistency is being punctual. When you make appointments with your division’s leadership, whether it’s via Xbox or Discord, make sure you show up. If your schedule changes and you need to adjust the time or date, communicate that as soon as possible. Try to avoid rescheduling repeatedly. When divisions are dealing with negative issues or circumstances, having a dependable Performance Officer can be a life-saver. Being a consistent PO is an easy way you can make a positive impact with you assigned division.
     
    Creativity
    One of the largest benefits of being a PO Officer is the chance to bring an outsider's opinion into the mix. You're a fresh set of eyes. This also means you have the added responsibility of being creative when it comes to assisting your division's leadership as they tackle problems and issues. Often times as PO’s, we’re hyper sensitive to the fact that we don’t BELONG in our assigned division. We’re an outsider. A guest. And this is normal. We’re not meant to be “included on the team”. That’s not our job. Use your “outsider-ness” to your advantage. Whether you realize it or not, you have the ability to look at your assigned division more objectively than its leadership. Be that accountability for them. Try to understand things from an objective perspective on their behalf. The raw numbers. Are goals being met? Are people following through on their commitments? Are duties being upheld?
    Application: While it’s not your job to hold your assigned division to standards, it IS your job to notice when those standards aren’t being upheld. Divisional leadership has a lot on their plate. Their time and energy is soaked up in RUNNING their division. Theirs is the big job. You have the opportunity to sit back and observe without stress, without expectations. Use that to their benefit. Communicate your perceptions to them so that they can have a broader understanding. Don’t confront or accuse but instead - ask questions, start discussions, draw their attention to things. Help THEM do their job better.
    ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
     
    Communication Checklist
    Discord Direct Message - Div Leader
    Purpose: The Discord Direct Message is the first form of contact. You will be contacting the highest ranking seven within your assigned division. Communicate on a professional level and directly. Let them know who you are and that you’re excited to begin working with them and learning about all the work they have done in their division. Make sure they know you want to learn about their goals, their achievements, the steps they are taking to further growth. While it is good to use discord as a communication tool to set up times that work for both parties to meet, conversations should be held on xbox to allow for in depth conversations.
    Frequency: You must contact this individual 1-2 times a week.
     
    Discord Group Message - Divisional Leadership
    Purpose: Creating a group chat with divisional leadership allows for the opinions of the entire staff to be heard versus the opinion of one person. While this can be achieved by making a group message with the entire divisional staff of your assigned division, the most effective way to maintain this is by requesting your assigned division to create a channel within their division’s discord server for PO. This allows you access not only to the leadership of your assigned division but also to their member base (for the purpose of CEP workshops and welcoming committees. This will also allow any subsequent Performance Officers to pick up where you left off instead of having to start from scratch.
    Frequency: You must contact this group of leaders once a week.
     
    Xbox Party Meetings
    Purpose: At the end of the day we are an Xbox gaming community so contact is expected to happen on this platform first and foremost. You need to set a time each week for you and the div lead of your assigned division to meet and chat on Xbox. Make sure you keep the conversation on task, productive, and positive. You are not there to criticize or correct, but to provide your services to improve the foundations of the division. Try to find a time that works for the division as well as you so that both parties are present and invested in the conversation.
    Frequency: You must speak to your division at least once a week.
     
    Communication with PO Leadership
    Purpose: To maintain accountability while working with your assigned division. Frequent communication with your designated Senior PO is meant to be an aid for Performance Officers as they seek to complete tasks on a day to day basis.
    Frequency: You must contact your Senior Performance Officer once a week to complete a check in.
     
    Weekly PO Meeting
    Purpose: Once a week there is a meeting for Performance Officers, you should do your best to attend 2/4 a month. This is to allow discussion among the staff, as well as recognizing emerging trends within the community. We will go over eval forms, a discussion topic, and any additional info that's relevant to that week.
    Frequency: You must attend at least 2 of the meetings a month, which happen once a week. If the meeting time does not meet your schedule, then you need to communicate that with your PO higher up.
  18. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Cherry 7 in DISCUSSION OF THE MONTH: Recruiting   
    Gamertag: Hello Im Gandhi
    Rank: Retired/Educational Advisory
    Time in KSI: 10 years

    Opinion:  Recruiting for me was always a love/hate relationship. When I first joined back in April of 2008, it was the bread and butter of KSI. Our free time was spent recruiting, recruiting, and recruiting some more. That's why you hear of a time when KSI had 20,000+ members. Now realistically, most of those members were fluff. At the time we had quotas to meet, usually set by division leaders. For my divisions I asked for 10 members added to each squad each week. We looked for growth of about 50 members a week. Unlike the current KSI, we did a really bad job at ensuring those members stayed in the community. We didn't have much member outreach, so our retention sucked. At that point in time it's fair to say that your promotions were directly tied to the amount of people you could recruit. I distinctly remember joining Xiled Kings on a division transfer when I was told by the director that I would be given my own squad and made general, but I only had a week to get it up to 50 members or I would have to find a new home. As you can imagine, the people I recruited weren't very quality.
    When I rejoined last summer, the paradigm had completely shifted. The focus was still partly on numbers, but it was also on quality recruits and member retention. While the community wasn't growing nearly as much as it used to, and the overall number in KSI had shrunk, it struck me as a much more sustainable practice. People don't want to join a community where all they are asked to do is recruit. They want to join somewhere they are going to be respected, and somewhere they are going to get to play games and meet other like minded people. It's now my opinion that the focus should entirely be on adding people to this community who want to be here, and that the overall member count doesn't matter one little bit. You could have 10,000 unhappy members that don't mean anything. You could have 500 happy and active members that make this the best community in the world.
    I don't have the answer, but I think the way we recruit needs an update. Skarz presented some awesome ideas. It shouldn't be another thing we have to do. It should be a byproduct of the things we are already doing, such as playing games. I think we are moving in the right direction, but ultimately still adapting to a new online gaming world.
  19. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from Nikki Cola in Basic Training Workshop (SGT & SSGT): (Updated 09/18/19)   
    Basic Training Workshop: Becoming a Leader in KSI
    Workshop Introduction: Sergeants and Staff Sergeants are the future of KSI. The quote “...today's recruit could be next years director..” means just that. The rank of Sergeant is the first step in moving forward towards that goal of being a career officer within the community. Not just that, it's also the first time where members truly get a taste for what it means to be an active member in just a gaming sense. While before they may have helped recruit, they will now be a part of the squad staff that is responsible for both bringing members in, and making sure they have the best experience possible. As a Sergeant you are responsible for having fun, and helping the squad in any way that you can. This includes hosting/co-hosting recruiting parties, game nights, workshops, and much more. While the position may not be as daunting as others, it is nonetheless important. A good core of sergeants can make or break a squad, which in turn can make or break a division. Because of this it is critical that you make sure the next generation of KSI leaders are as good as, if not better than the current group.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Performance Operations Department.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    Thinking back, what were your first days in KSI like? What was it like when you were first recruited? Are there any people, or moments that stick out to you? Why? How can you make sure that new members are as welcomed into the squad as possible? What do you think you can bring to the table to help better the squad? What do you think the main duties of a SGT should be/are? What does it mean to be an "effective member" within your squad? What do you hope to achieve during your career in KSI? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: Throughout this workshop you will be introduced to a variety of topics, including the daily responsibilities of both sergeants and staff sergeants. As we navigate this information, keep in mind that as a sergeant, you represent one of the most important positions in KSI. You are the link between its members, and its officers. Although you yourself are still relatively new to the community, you have the power to make or break an experience for a member, or potential members. In all of this, remember the following.
    KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. As a Sergeant, you should understand and be able to talk to others about what KSI stands for.
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Throughout your time here, you should try to gain as much knowledge as possible from those around you. Ask questions, take notes, memorize rank structure, and so much more. The more you know, the more you gain, and the better the leader you will be. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. You will uncover obstacles throughout your time in KSI. They may take the form of dwindling squad or division numbers, issues with members or officers, or personal problems that become more important than gaming. With each of these, never think they are too big to overcome. They aren't. Approach all problems at their base level. Focus on helping one, two, or three members before trying to tackle the problems of the world. Strong leaders create a strong community. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. If you promise to do something, or are entrusted with greater responsibilities, it is important that you follow through, and not only that, but that you follow through with them to the best of your abilities. Just because you move up in the community doesn't mean your work is over. In fact, it's just beginning. As a leader, and as an officer, members are going to count on you to carry out any number of tasks, from game nights to recruiting parties. It is vital that we don't let them down. Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SGT
    Introduction: As has already been mentioned, SGT's and SSGT's make up perhaps the most important part of this community. They are the link between our newer members, and the officers that make the decisions that affecteffect them on a daily basis. As a SGT, you are taking your first steps into the world of leadership. It is a world that can be difficult, frightening, and overwhelming, but also rewarding, fulfilling, and challenging. Below you will find listed several tips, tricks, and strategies that will help you be the best SGT possible for your squad, and for your division.
    1. Participation
    A strong division means a strong and active squad. For this to happen its members need to be actively participating in the events offered. It's only natural to state then that sergeants should always participate in game nights, learn from workshops, attend squad meetings, and be active within their squad. Game nights are a common squad activity that occurs throughout the week. Normally they  are hosted by officers, and on a common game known to, and played by a Division or Squad. Co-Hosting a game night as a Sergeant will allow you to interact with members within your squad. Workshops are held to help guide and educate members in the ways of KSI. Additionally, workshops are great for promoting officer interest in a squad by passing vital information to individuals who will then use it when they are promoted. Squad meetings are used to give information of the squad to all squad members. In fact, some of the standard information conveyed in a regular squad meeting may include game nights, workshops, promotions, as well as other squad and divisional information.
    2. Recruiting
    Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit, either by hosting, or co-hosting recruiting parties, depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Recruiting made easy:
    Enter a game alone or with a small team/group. Talk in the lobby and meet your fellow team members. Play by the Code of Conduct and represent KSI in a positive manner. During the match, communicate with the non-community gamers with a positive attitude, as well as your fellow community members to encourage interest in KSI. If you enjoy someone's personality and they seem interested, ask some questions, get to know one another and see if they would be a good fit for this community. Remember never recruit someone if you do not wish to be around them. If they decide they would like to just hang around a bit, feel free to invite them to game nights and some more matchmaking. If they then become interested in joining, begin the standard recruitment process which can be found listed below. Another excellent way to find people who you might enjoy gaming with is to create looking for group posts on Xbox Live. Remember though, in those posts you can tag clan recruiting, but more often than not people are just looking for a team. Keep this in mind and try not to be too pushy. Game with them for a while, get to know them, and develop a feel for what they want. If you think that they might be interested in joining the community, begin the standard recruitment process. KSI's Standard Recruitment Process can be found here: http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/handbook/
     
    3. Understanding the Code of Conduct
    The KSI Code of Conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms and responsibilities of an individual or organization. Each person recruited into KSI is expected to follow and uphold all principles and values, while developing their leadership skills, and self-identify as a member. This code of conduct clarifies and outlines our community's mission, and in doing so, defines the overall desired behavior of all current and future members.  Failure to uphold the standards of the code of conduct can often times lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension, dnh's, or even blacklistings. As a sergeant it is crucial that you understand these rules, demonstrate them in your duties, and help to translate them to the new members of this community.
    The C.o.C. can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/topic/35279-code-of-conduct/
    4. KSI Rank Structure
    In order to provide a more organized experience for those who join our community, KSI members are placed in a semi military fashioned rank structure, in which one's rank represents that member's status in this community. For all respective purposes, this rank structure is separated into a multi-tiered system in the following order, from highest rank to the lowest:  
    Multi-Divisional or Community Level Divisional Level   Multi-Squad Level   Squad Level Each of these tiers are then broken down into several ranks.
    The full breakdown of rank structure and organization can be found in the quote box below. All you need to do is click the arrow to expand the information inside.
    Descriptions and duties involved with each rank can be found here:  http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/http://www.ksiglobal.org/portfolio/rankstructure/
    How to recognize rank: The 7 suffix in gamer-tags refers to KSI Leaders who have attained the rank of Co-Founder or higher in the past, or present. However, we do have some leaders not currently in those leadership positions who hold a 7 in their name. In general, no member should have a 7 in their name unless they currently hold a position equal to Co-Founder or higher, or have previously held such as position.
    5. Your Future as a Leader of KSI
    As we have already discussed, sergeant is a critical rank in KSI. Not only does it help form the glue that keeps a squad together, it also represents a member's first experience with leadership. While the position itself is not time consuming, or difficult, it gives you the first taste of what it is like to be an officer in this community. Some members will decide to stay at the rank of sergeant and just be active gamers within the squad. Others still will decide that they have like the taste of responsibility they've received and wish to continue up the rank structure. In these cases the next rank that awaits for them is Staff Sergeant. It represents the first true officer position within the community, and the starting point for the next generation of KSI's leaders.
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Basics of an Effective SSGT
    Introduction: After successfully fulfilling the requirements of a SGT, you will be given the opportunity to take up your first true position as an officer in KSI. While not yet experienced enough to step into the positions of squad leadership, you will be given the opportunity to begin your training for that eventual change. With this, the hope is that when the time comes you will be able to be as effective as possible for your squad, and for your division. As a Staff Sergeant you will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that will seem similar to your eventual duties. As a SSGT you will primarily be tasked as acting like a mentor for the newer members and newer SGT's in your squad. They will look up to you for encouragement and knowledge, but also for someone to game with. While you may have more work to do, never lose sightsite of why you joined the community, and why other members did as well. Below you will see several of your duties listed, as well as tips, tricks, and suggestions that can help you be as successful as possible.
    1. Hosting game-nights
    Game nights are essential to a squads success. Not only do game nights unite a squad, but they also promote growth and team development. Game nights are normally hosted by an officer, and can be co-hosted by a Sergeant. Game nights are also played on a game that is well known by a specific squad or division. In an ideal world, game nights are hosted regularly in each squad, and each division. If that doesn't seem to be the case, take the initiative as a SSGT, and seek out an officer who would be willing to co-host with you. The more experience you get with organizing, hosting, and communicating with members you get, the better off you will be in the long run.
    2. Hosting workshops
    Workshops are used for passing knowledge down to lower ranking members. Squad workshops are required to be hosted at least once throughout the week. Specific information regarding their occurrence can be found on the Human Resources calendar for each individual division. It is our job to ensure that lower ranking members are taught correctly in order to perform their jobs effectively. Without effective training, theretheir is no future for our community. Each new generation has to be able to step up and replace the last when the time comes. As a SSGT, you can co-host several workshops, or at the very least, aid your officers in making sure they go off without a hitch. Once again, the more experience you get, the better.
    3. Keeping up with members
    Talking to members is extremely important. In fact, it may be the most important duty of any squad or division officer. If we don't continue to make new members feel like they are welcome in the community, then the possibility, or rather likelihood arises that they feel unwelcome within their squad and then decide to leave the community. We can help make sure this doesn't happen by regularly inviting them to parties, as well as anything squad related. This includes game nights, squad meetings, workshops, or any other KSI event. Out of all of your new duties as a SSGT, the most important will continue to be playing games, and playing games with as many members of the squad as possible. Without a happy squad, theretheir is no squad. Without a squad, theretheir are no officers.
    4. Training and Promotions
    As a Staff Sergeant, you are required to train recruits to  the rank of private, and promote individuals to the respective ranks of corporal and sergeant. Clearly, at first you will not do these alone. You will be trained on how to take members under your wing, and give them the necessary information and training needed to move up to their next position. In this role, you will act much more like a mentor than anything else. Remember what it was like for you when you first joined the community and filled those ranks. Relay that experience to them, and help make it as smooth as possible.  For the specifics on how to recruit, train, and promote, your general and squad officers will work with you. Be on the lookout for information from them.
    5. Forums
    The forums are KSI's main source of information,  stored in one convenient location. All officers, including staff sergeants are required to have a presence on the forums. Your division has its own section, and your squad will have its own topic, and/or topics. You will find that meeting signups, meeting notes, game night sign upssignups, and community events are communicated regularly through the site.  Other helpful topics that can be found are: Clan-Ops Information Center, Divisional Transfer Area, Divisional Sections, Community Events, Access to Department Areas, Signups for events, and General Chats. All of these areas are crucial to the smooth operation of the community. As a SSGT it is also a part of your duty to help new members sign up for accounts, and teach them how to use them appropriately, and effectively.
    KSI's Forums can be found here: http://www.ksiforums.org/
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop that will help you be the best SGT/SSGT possible? What does it mean to be aa a SGT? A SSGT? Why are those positions so important in the overall context of KSI? What can you do as a SSGT and SSGT to help make sure that your squad, and in turn, division run as smoothly, and effectively as possible? Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
  20. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from Nikki Cola in DISCUSSION OF THE MONTH: Recruiting   
    Gamertag: Hello Im Gandhi
    Rank: Retired/Educational Advisory
    Time in KSI: 10 years

    Opinion:  Recruiting for me was always a love/hate relationship. When I first joined back in April of 2008, it was the bread and butter of KSI. Our free time was spent recruiting, recruiting, and recruiting some more. That's why you hear of a time when KSI had 20,000+ members. Now realistically, most of those members were fluff. At the time we had quotas to meet, usually set by division leaders. For my divisions I asked for 10 members added to each squad each week. We looked for growth of about 50 members a week. Unlike the current KSI, we did a really bad job at ensuring those members stayed in the community. We didn't have much member outreach, so our retention sucked. At that point in time it's fair to say that your promotions were directly tied to the amount of people you could recruit. I distinctly remember joining Xiled Kings on a division transfer when I was told by the director that I would be given my own squad and made general, but I only had a week to get it up to 50 members or I would have to find a new home. As you can imagine, the people I recruited weren't very quality.
    When I rejoined last summer, the paradigm had completely shifted. The focus was still partly on numbers, but it was also on quality recruits and member retention. While the community wasn't growing nearly as much as it used to, and the overall number in KSI had shrunk, it struck me as a much more sustainable practice. People don't want to join a community where all they are asked to do is recruit. They want to join somewhere they are going to be respected, and somewhere they are going to get to play games and meet other like minded people. It's now my opinion that the focus should entirely be on adding people to this community who want to be here, and that the overall member count doesn't matter one little bit. You could have 10,000 unhappy members that don't mean anything. You could have 500 happy and active members that make this the best community in the world.
    I don't have the answer, but I think the way we recruit needs an update. Skarz presented some awesome ideas. It shouldn't be another thing we have to do. It should be a byproduct of the things we are already doing, such as playing games. I think we are moving in the right direction, but ultimately still adapting to a new online gaming world.
  21. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from AWOL in DISCUSSION OF THE MONTH: Recruiting   
    Gamertag: Hello Im Gandhi
    Rank: Retired/Educational Advisory
    Time in KSI: 10 years

    Opinion:  Recruiting for me was always a love/hate relationship. When I first joined back in April of 2008, it was the bread and butter of KSI. Our free time was spent recruiting, recruiting, and recruiting some more. That's why you hear of a time when KSI had 20,000+ members. Now realistically, most of those members were fluff. At the time we had quotas to meet, usually set by division leaders. For my divisions I asked for 10 members added to each squad each week. We looked for growth of about 50 members a week. Unlike the current KSI, we did a really bad job at ensuring those members stayed in the community. We didn't have much member outreach, so our retention sucked. At that point in time it's fair to say that your promotions were directly tied to the amount of people you could recruit. I distinctly remember joining Xiled Kings on a division transfer when I was told by the director that I would be given my own squad and made general, but I only had a week to get it up to 50 members or I would have to find a new home. As you can imagine, the people I recruited weren't very quality.
    When I rejoined last summer, the paradigm had completely shifted. The focus was still partly on numbers, but it was also on quality recruits and member retention. While the community wasn't growing nearly as much as it used to, and the overall number in KSI had shrunk, it struck me as a much more sustainable practice. People don't want to join a community where all they are asked to do is recruit. They want to join somewhere they are going to be respected, and somewhere they are going to get to play games and meet other like minded people. It's now my opinion that the focus should entirely be on adding people to this community who want to be here, and that the overall member count doesn't matter one little bit. You could have 10,000 unhappy members that don't mean anything. You could have 500 happy and active members that make this the best community in the world.
    I don't have the answer, but I think the way we recruit needs an update. Skarz presented some awesome ideas. It shouldn't be another thing we have to do. It should be a byproduct of the things we are already doing, such as playing games. I think we are moving in the right direction, but ultimately still adapting to a new online gaming world.
  22. Like
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from KSI Havoc 7 in DISCUSSION OF THE MONTH: Recruiting   
    Gamertag: Hello Im Gandhi
    Rank: Retired/Educational Advisory
    Time in KSI: 10 years

    Opinion:  Recruiting for me was always a love/hate relationship. When I first joined back in April of 2008, it was the bread and butter of KSI. Our free time was spent recruiting, recruiting, and recruiting some more. That's why you hear of a time when KSI had 20,000+ members. Now realistically, most of those members were fluff. At the time we had quotas to meet, usually set by division leaders. For my divisions I asked for 10 members added to each squad each week. We looked for growth of about 50 members a week. Unlike the current KSI, we did a really bad job at ensuring those members stayed in the community. We didn't have much member outreach, so our retention sucked. At that point in time it's fair to say that your promotions were directly tied to the amount of people you could recruit. I distinctly remember joining Xiled Kings on a division transfer when I was told by the director that I would be given my own squad and made general, but I only had a week to get it up to 50 members or I would have to find a new home. As you can imagine, the people I recruited weren't very quality.
    When I rejoined last summer, the paradigm had completely shifted. The focus was still partly on numbers, but it was also on quality recruits and member retention. While the community wasn't growing nearly as much as it used to, and the overall number in KSI had shrunk, it struck me as a much more sustainable practice. People don't want to join a community where all they are asked to do is recruit. They want to join somewhere they are going to be respected, and somewhere they are going to get to play games and meet other like minded people. It's now my opinion that the focus should entirely be on adding people to this community who want to be here, and that the overall member count doesn't matter one little bit. You could have 10,000 unhappy members that don't mean anything. You could have 500 happy and active members that make this the best community in the world.
    I don't have the answer, but I think the way we recruit needs an update. Skarz presented some awesome ideas. It shouldn't be another thing we have to do. It should be a byproduct of the things we are already doing, such as playing games. I think we are moving in the right direction, but ultimately still adapting to a new online gaming world.
  23. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from December in LAST STRIKE DIVISION CHAT   
    What's up LS? You guys need a forums banner that shows up!
  24. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from Nikki Cola in Recruiting Workshop: (Updated 08/02/18)   
    Recruiting Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: Learning how to recruit is an excellent way to bring your friends into an experience that you enjoy, and that you wish to share with others. Recruiting also provides growth within your squad, which means more people to play with. Finally, as a sergeant or an officer it is a standard duty that you should be helping to recruit. Depending on your level of qualifications, which may differ from division to division, this can be done by hosting or co-hosting recruiting parties. While finding new members to join the community may seem daunting, the steps listed below can help to make the process much more simple, and less frightening.
    Note: This workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information, and find the best way to deliver it, just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. It's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What was your recruitment experience when being brought into KSI? What do you remember most about it? Did you have any questions that your recruiter wasn't able to answer at the time? Knowing the requirements to be eligible to be recruited into KSI, do you believe the standards are too high, or not high enough? (Gamer-score, amount of friends, etc..) ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: The topics listed below represent the information most critical to Sergeants and Officers within KSI. Throughout the workshop you will cover a wide range of topics from the Code of Conduct, blacklisted communities, and required settings. While it is important you cover the topics below in detail, it's also important to read the room, and know your audience. Keep that in mind, and make sure that the way your present this workshop, and the way that you go about hosting it, still allow for a fun, collaborative, and open learning environment.
    Important Workshop Technical Note: This workshop will be interactive, meaning that as you go through the information, participants should follow along on both www.KSIGlobal.org and www.KSIForums.org. You will go over the information as listed below, but also direct them to where they might find it themselves in the future. Because of this, before beginning the workshop please walk your participants through signing up for the forums if they have not already done so. To get credit for completing this curriculum, they must be on the forums throughout the process.
     
    1. How to find a recruit
    These are the 5 different ways you can recruit new members into KSI. Please remember that these are just the methods you can use but in no way does it guarantee you new recruits. This will depend on your ability to excite the member into giving KSI a try.
    Friend Zoned: This is the tried and true way of finding new members, to simply become their friend. Whether you find people throughout game lobbies and befriend them over several games or even days, you can slow pitch the idea of joining while also keeping an eye on how they play and act. You can also tap members of your squad for referrals that allow you to recruit people who might already have an idea of how KSI works due to their mutual friendship.
     
    New Phone, Who Dis?: It is as simple as this. Play games and send out a mass message. This recruiting style has been around for a long time and does have it’s benefits. Normally, the message will look something like these examples:
     
    Gone Fishing: An Xbox One recruiter’s best friend, Looking For Groups aka LFGs. This can be done via the Xbox or via the smart glass application on your phone. While this is very similar to the previous way, the difference here is you can be specific using “tags” to support your message to help weed out any unwanted responses such as mix required or a custom tag like “Recruiting”.
     
    Welcome to the Thunderdome – This can be a go-to, bread and butter, whatever you want to call it because its effectiveness is solely based on your abilities as oppose to the other methods. All you need to do this is a game, and depending on the size of parties each game allows, enough people to allow for a full party, minus 2 empty spaces for recruits. You simply fill out those empty spots with potential recruits, whether it is through others’ friends lists or loading up with a few randoms. As you’re playing, you can do some things to make recruitment easier such as security checking the members friends list, or paying attention to how they act and react to various stages of the game.
    Note: You can also do this on a wider scale by setting up teams of two or three in multiple parties, as long as each party has a recruiter present.
     
    The Coliseum: The one of a kind event where you pit people against each other to determine who is the better gamer. It can bring out the best in people and the worst in so many ways, but ultimately, it is a tool you as a recruiter can use to bring in people. Basically you run this in a basic format, 5 KSI members vs 5 non-KSI members and even incorporate a cash prize to “sweeten the pot.” This will show that being a member of your squad comes with the perks of competitive contests. That is appealing for many people because it can help them become better or simply hone their craft. However, micromanaging the parties can go tricky and you will need to be careful making sure the toxic and negative atmosphere does not take over the party.
     
    2. Recruiting Process on the Xbox One
    Security Check:
    The Security Check is normally performed while you are in a party chatting with your possible RCT. As you are chatting about KSI look through the friends list and clubs. Check friends list for multiple gamertags with same prefixes. Examples: KSI, MEA, DBD, TSB, J2H, XGN, XGC. Check clubs for other clans/communities and blacklisted clans/communities. Blacklisted Communities: J2H, GRM, MEA, XDG  Minimum age of 15, no maximum. Minimum Gamer-score of 500. Minimum of 20 friends. Mic Required Note: Watch out for people with 20,000 or higher gamer-score as well as people with multiple people with similar name; recruits are allowed to have up to three different individuals in different clans/communities. Explain that a Blacklisted community pertains to all of KSI and a Security Risked individual or community is divisional or squad based.
     
    3. Blacklisted Communities:
    Blacklisted Communities are communities that KSI has no affiliation with. The following are KSI's Blacklisted Communities. 
    J2H GRM MEA XDG If any of these communities are found on a friends list during security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Never recruit or associate with anyone with these members on their friends list. If ever contacted by any of these groups screenshot the message and contact a 7 or the highest rank officer online at the time.
    Security Threat Communities: If any these communities are found on a friends list during the security check they must be removed before the recruitment process can begin. Be very cautious of members associated with these clan/communities. You are not allowed to have these people on your friends list. The following is KSI's Security Risked Community.
    TSB  
    4. Explain what KSI stands for:
    Knowledge: Knowledge is essential in every aspect of your membership in this community. Strength: Strength is needed to persevere through tough times and to continue moving forward. Integrity: Integrity is perhaps the most important trademark of a KSI leader. At the end of the day, it, and your actions are all that you have. Be sure to repeat that KSI means Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity a few different times throughout your recruitment.
     
    5. Read the Code of Conduct:
    As you’re reading the Code of Conduct, stop periodically and explain what each rule means.
     
    6. Go Over Privacy and Profile Settings:
    Privacy Settings:
    Go to “Account” Select “Privacy and Online Safety” Xbox Live Privacy Go to “View Details & Customize” Go to “Profile” Others Can See Your Xbox Profile Change to “Everyone” Press B to go back one time. Go to “Friends and Clubs” Others Can See Your Friends List Change to “Everyone” Profile Settings:
    Go to Dashboard and press the home button. Go to Profile Image Select “My Profile” Select “Customize Profile” Edit Location to reflect: KSI (SQUAD/DIVISION) RCT Edit Bio to reflect as follows: Referred by ____________ (Only if it applies) Recruited by (Your gamertag) on (insert appropriate date) Hit "Done" to apply all changes.  
    7. Recruit Club/Tag Additions:
    All new recruits must be added to the recruit club or the recruit tag upon their initial recruitment.
    Recruit Club:
    Select their profile Select "Invite" Scroll downward to "Invite to club" Select your Divisions recruiting club Recruit Tag:
    Explain to the recruit that they will be adding the Division's recruit tag, and that all new members go through the tag at one point. Have the recruit add the tag. Send a message to the leader that holds the recruit tag regarding that you have recruited (insert gamertag here). Send a message to the leadership of the squad the member was recruited for. Note: Make sure you can see the friends list so it can be added to the recruit club and they have removed and not added back anyone that needed to be removed. When all of this is done, go back and check their profile to make sure the bio and location read correctly.
     
    8. Welcoming
    Send out a mass message to all KSI members welcoming the recruit, and ask them to send the new recruit a friend request. Doing this not only lets your squad, but also the division and the community as a whole, know there is a new member in KSI.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    Is there anything you would change about the recruitment process? Was there anything that you didn't fully understand, or still have questions about? Why do you think it is important to bring new members into KSI?
  25. Upvote
    Hello Im Gandhi got a reaction from xBrownie VI in Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop: (Updated 03/06/20)   
    Train the Trainer Leadership Workshop
    Workshop Introduction: This workshop is designed as both a training and refresher course for all members of KSI that are in a position where they are responsible for training the future leaders of this community. Before beginning, it's important to acknowledge that there is never a right or wrong answer as to how to train. What may work for me, may not work for you, and vice versa. Nevertheless, it's become apparent that one of our biggest shortcoming as a community has been preparing the next generation of leaders that will ensure KSI remains relevant in the world of online gaming for years to come. This isn't necessarily the fault of any one person or any group of people, but the result of years of practices that have lead us to this point. The simple fact is this; we are not producing enough leaders to sustain ourselves. It is our intention that this workshop on training itself can begin to help minimize some of those issues. In this workshop you will find several tried, tested, and true tips for how to ensure that both your leadership and training is of the highest quality possible. Additionally, this workshop is not meant to be read word for word. As the trainer, you should read through it, take in the information and find the best way to deliver it. Just as will be stated throughout the information we are about to discuss.
    Workshop Occurrence: This workshop will be offered on a rotating basis. Specific dates and occurrences will be listed on the monthly workshop calendar created by the Human Resources Department.
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Before we Begin (Pre-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions may be used as a conversation starter before beginning your workshop. As will be mentioned later, it's important to make sure you begin by getting everyone thinking about the topic at hand.
    What does effective training-in KSI look like? Is it entirely dependent on the trainer, or is it also dependent on the person being trained? Does training in KSI currently reflect that? If you could change one thing about the way training works in KSI, what would it be? If you had to implement one of your personal, squad, or divisional policies on a community wide basis to better the standard of leadership, and training what would it be and why? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
    The Core of the Program (Workshop Topics, Progression, and Key Points)
    Workshop Curriculum Introduction: KSI stands for Knowledge, Strength, and Integrity. We all know this. We learned it the day we were recruited, and will remember it even after we have left the community. Those aren't just three words, but also principles that every single leader, member, and trainer must demonstrate in their daily duties. Nevertheless, they can be vague, and at times, hard to follow. Because of this, we have developed seven key principles that all leaders, and trainers, should strive to exhibit. The number 7 in KSI doesn't just represent a sign of authority, experience, or rank, it represents a philosophy of leadership. Regardless of your division, your time in KSI, or your own personal journey, the 7 is something that all members notice as unique, and special. Beyond a piece of our gamertag and collective identity, it also represents the core principles that all members of KSI, leaders or not, should strive to exhibit in their everyday duties.
           The 7 Core Principles of an Effective Leader:
      Be knowledgeable, and know what you are selling   Control the room   Energize your members   Encourage conversation and keep people engaged   Be an active listener   Help your members find their "Why?"   Challenge yourself, and others, to do more 1. Be Knowledgeable and Know What You Are Selling
    The basis of any effective workshop, is a well trained, trainer. To fulfill that role, you have to be comfortable, and knowledgeable about what you are teaching. It can't be the first time you've gone over the material. You have to understand the heart of the information, the key points, and the takeaways, as well as how to convey all of that in a way that is engaging, interactive, and informative. If necessary, have a copy of the information next to you. Be careful though, because you don't just want to read off of a script. If you do, it seems forced, and can often times be harder for members to get through, as well as understand. Look through your training notes, make comments, highlight important pieces of information, and create questions. We have to look at them as tasks that need to be done, and need to be done well. What makes sense to you? Make a note of it. Did a question pop into your head while you were reading through it? Make a note of it. As you've probably heard before, if you have a question, so does everyone else. That fact is amplified 10 fold when you are the person doing the training. No matter what the topic you are teaching for that workshop is, find passion in it. You demonstrating passion for a subject, no matter how trivial it may be, will spread that passion to those being trained. You've heard it before; learning is contagious. We can't look at training and workshops just as tasks that need doing.
    Key Point: Know what you are selling: You can't expect someone to buy into what you are teaching, if you haven't even bought into it yourself.
    2. Control the Room
    Holding an informative and inclusive workshop first begins by establishing an effective platform for learning and teaching. Quite simply, this refers to your party. If your party is too noisy, too crazy, or too unorganized, no productive activity can occur. We all know this. Think about how you host a divisional or squad meeting. Is everyone talking at once? Are there crazy echoes? Are random people popping in and out every five seconds? The answer to all of those questions should be no. As the party leader and the trainer for that workshop, you should be in total control of your room. Basic steps can be taken to make sure this occurs:
    Invite Only Party Politely remove any non-essential guests or members. Make sure everyone knows the ground rules of the party, and its' purpose. Make sure the only person who has an active mic, is the person who has the floor. Come up with a way to signal questions, and or comments (i.e posting in the party chat, on KiK, or by private message). Random outbursts lead to unnecessary chaos. Give ample opportunity for interactive comments, questions, and discussion. The more active the party as a whole while still being structured, the better the learning experience will be. Make sure that the party atmosphere is enjoyable. Ultimately everyone in the party is there to learn, and to progress through their KSI career. Realize though, that people are less likely to do that if they feel like the environment around them is too much like a prison, and too little like a forum for learning. Key Point: When it comes down to it, everyone has a different style of leadership, which also means a different style of hosting parties. No one can make you do it any one way. Regardless, these seven points above will ensure that you have taken the best possible steps towards ensuring that the environment you are creating is the environment to promote success.
    3. Energize your members
    As a trainer, you have to buy into what you are teaching. At the same time, your members have to want to buy into what you are teaching as well. In fact, this doesn't just apply to workshops. It applies to every part of KSI, whether it be leadership, recruiting, game nights, or any other duty/activity you might think of. There is no one correct way to energize members, or people in general. Everyone has different needs and desires. At the same time, there are several steps you can take to try and bring an energy that might be missing from the group. Below you will find several suggestions.
    Give equal ownership in the group: Make members feel like they are truly a part of what is going on, and not just bystanders to the process.  Giving ownership to all members doesn't mean giving up your position or responsibility. Whether it be in terms of a workshop, a squad meeting, or a decision, make members feel like their opinion counts. Hear them out, engage with their ideas, comments, and questions. Take their input to heart, and help it inform your decision making process. Give everyone a voice, and a way to use it productively. Model enthusiasm and desire, even when it's hard: As a leader, and as a trainer, sometimes it is necessary for you to model the behavior that your members need to be exhibiting. If times are tough, sometimes it's up to us to lead by example and set the standard for what something should look like. The hardest part of this is doing it even when you don't feel like it's genuine. In reality, those moments are when it's most important. Members need to see that their leaders can put aside the difficulties and drama when necessary for the benefit of the group. Spend time engaging: We've all been there. We host a workshop, or a meeting, get the important info out of the way, and then go our separate ways for the rest of the day without ever engaging again. Sometimes that works. More often than not though, it doesn't. Your members need to feel like they aren't just another number. They need to feel like you genuinely care about them as people, and not just as subordinates. Whether it be during a workshop or a meeting, set aside some time to talk to everyone about something that isn't the focus of the day.  Get to know the people you work with. In the long run, it will be a benefit to you, them, and the community. Honor individual members: Everyone likes to be recognized, even for the smallest of reasons. Whether it's during the training itself, or through the course of your daily duties and interactions, take time to recognize the little things. During your workshop did someone have an excellent answer to a question? If so, point it out and praise it. Did someone ask a thought provoking question? If so, point it out and praise it. Over the course of the week, did a SGT help officers in the squad bring in new recruits, or perhaps helped to host a workshop or a game night? If so, point it out and praise it. Take the time to make it a part of your regular routine to single out those moments. Honor their achievements, and they will honor the faith you put in them. Celebrate the little things: Much like the previous point, take the time to find the little things in both KSI, and life to point out. Celebrate them. Maybe you grew five members in a week. Maybe you had 100% completion of a certain workshop. These are the positive and uplifting things that members, and the community at large need to hear about. They might seem trivial to you at the time, but a small action such as that might make the world of difference in the development of a leader,  the growth of a division, or the success of the community. Ask questions: No moment where you are a leader, whether it be a workshop, a meeting, or a recruiting party should be one sided. Building off of what has already been mentioned, make sure that you take the time to also be a participant. Ask members questions, and truly hear out their answers. Ask members their opinions on issues, or for their ideas. Ask them for their comments and their input, and strive to incorporate them in any way that might be possible. Again, make them feel like equal members of the group. Have fun: It doesn't matter if it's a workshop, squad meeting, recruiting party, or game night, you need to make sure that you, and your members are having fun . If it's always all business, then for the majority of people, there's nothing to really look forward to. Only a select few members enjoy the day to day grind. For most, this community is an opportunity to find an amazing group of people to spend time, and game with. While doing that though, they also naturally take their place in this community, whether it be as a SGT, or as a Senior Director. If you're hosting a workshop, or maybe even a squad meeting, don't be afraid to take a break or two to chat, or play a game.  Again, in the larger sense, make sure you are staying on topic and getting done what needs to be done, but at the same time, don't let the job become more important than the reason we are all here. Key Point: There is no one way to energize members. Part of that comes down to your leadership and training style. However, the most important thing we all need to realize is that, no matter our ranks, we are all in this community for the same reason. If someone feels like they aren't valued, then they don't value the community around them. The seven strategies above can help you to make sure that your members, regardless of setting, are energized and willing to move forward as productive members of KSI.
    4. Encourage Conversation and Keep Members Engaged
    We already touched on this above, but as a trainer and a leader, it's imperative to encourage conversation at all times. Through this you will find that by and large, members are more engaged, and interested in the community around them.  Naturally, creating an environment that encourages open conversation doesn't come easily to everyone. In many cases, it is a skill that has to be learned over time, and through practice. With that in mind, it is still a skill that must be learned, and put into practice if you hope to be the best trainer and leader possible. Again, like most of the items listed above, this can be implemented in any part of your KSI life, or life in general. Below you will find several tricks listed that can help you begin to create an environment of healthy conversation.
    Ask a simple question, no matter the topic. Ask open ended questions that foster larger conversation. Inquire about their interests, Xbox or not. Come up with conversation starters ahead of time. Invite conversation, but don't require it. Be the facilitator, and direct the conversation. Don't give up if conversation doesn't come easy, keep at it. Key Point: Engagement is the key to any successful venture, whether it be a workshop, the building of a squad, or the community at large. The basis of an engaged community are members who are are actively involved with the world around them. Conversation is perhaps the most critical piece of the puzzle that promotes this kind of engagement, therefore it is absolutely critical that as leaders, mentors, and trainers we take very possible opportunity to encourage it.
    5. Be An Active Listener
    If all goes to plan, you've taken the steps necessary to get your members talking. Now it's time to listen, and one of the hardest things for any person to do is actively listen. The definition of active listening means that the listener fully concentrates, understands, and analyzes what is being said. This means that when your members are communicating you have to fully engage with what they are saying by listening, responding, and participating with them. Beyond that, being an active listener means just being there to lend and ear when needed. You want your members to be actively engaged, and communicating, but part of that also means being willing to hear what they are saying.
    Key Point: Encourage your members to be actively engaged and communicate, but make sure you as a leader and trainer are lending an open ear to truly hear, and understand what is being said.
    6. Help Your Members Find Their "Why?"
    Why are you in KSI? That's the question that lies at the center of this community. When we were initially recruited, we all were sold by one point, or another of the community. It might have been the tournaments, the organized structures, or the endless people to game with. In many ways, we join KSI twice. Our initial recruitment becomes blurry with time, but the moment where you decide what path you are going to take moving forward sticks with you for as long as your association with the community, and beyond. If you ask any leader in the community about why they are here, they would give you a different answer each time. Some are here because they believe in providing a safe and constructive online gaming environment, while others are just here to have fun. As trainers and leaders, one of the biggest jobs you have is to help your members find their "Why?". Not all of them are going to continue on to become leaders themselves. Some of them might end up leaving, while others might decide to just hang out and game. Others still will choose the path that takes them up the ladder of leadership. Regardless of their choice, it's imperative to ensure that you take every possible opportunity to help them find their drive in this community.
    Key Point: We all have our "Why". Help your members find theirs.
    7. Challenge Yourself, and Others, to do More
    "Be the change you want to be in KSI".
    Many of us have heard this quote, and many more of you will hear it in the future. How many of us actually take it to heart? KSI, like any community, is only as strong as its' members. Unfortunately, like in life, we sometimes get stuck in our routine. It becomes dull, and we start to just go through the paces, day after day. Even though it may be difficult, as leaders it is important that you strive to make sure that doesn't happen. Each day you need to challenge not only others, but yourself to do more. Reflect on the past, and try to improve on it. Is there something that you only put 50% effort into? Is there a workshop that you didn't put your whole heart into? If so, learn from it, and push yourself to do better. Do the same for the members around you. If you see someone putting in minimal effort, challenge them to take it up a notch. Don't get comfortable. Challenge yourself, and others to do more, every day, no matter the circumstances.
    Key Point: Progress happens with or without you. The question is, do you want to be a part of shaping the future?
    __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
     
    The Debrief (Post-Workshop Conversation Starters and Discussion Topics)
    The Following questions can be used as a conversation starter following the conclusion of your workshop. You do not have to ask every question. Pick the ones that you believe will have the most impact, and most buy in with your workshop group.
    What are the initial topics that stood out to you while going through the workshop? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that you didn't agree with? If so, why? Analyzing your own training, and leadership style, do you see anything that you need to change? Perhaps anything you need to work on, or adjust? If not, what do you think makes your style of leadership and training strong? Is there anything that others can take from you? What is at least one thing you can take from this workshop to improve both your training, and overall leadership? What is at least one thing you can, and will change, in terms of your leadership, and training moving forward?
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