Diamond University

#RJONextGen

I spent this past weekend at Hamburger University, working with fine jewelers… I am new to the jewelry business so to me it became my own little Diamond University.

The Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO) is my newest corporate client… and man was it an exciting project. I was asked to write curriculum and then facilitate a weekend program for up and coming executives.

The purpose of the program, which we called NextGen, was to develop skills in the Next Generation of Jewelry Store owners. Since I am new to this industry it required a lot of research to make sure we were on point. We had to be creative on activities because of this unique market and unique need in local family owned businesses.

Powerful Conversations

It was a team of three main facilitators, which all brought a unique perspective to the table. It added a great layer of feedback and open space for generating ideas. We sculpted a program with personal development items, strategic planning discussions and some tangible skills/resources they can implement right away. The event was hosted at the Hyatt Lodge at the McDonalds Corporate training site… Hamburger University. Yes it really does exist!

I had an amazing time learning about the business.  I especially enjoyed hearing the stories of how many of their stores were started, and the excitement (and anxiousness) that is present over pending transitions of ownership to the NextGen…

Coffee and Communication

The program went really well, I did sessions on leading with your purpose, strategic visioning and communication. We got lots of feedback and are already planning how to make the program even better in the future. I loved the connections that I got to make and the wide array of personalities I met. It was a fun group, that worked hard all day, and had a good time afterwards. What I thought was most interesting, is they love their industry so much that well into the wee hours of the night… jewelry was still part of most of the discussions.

I am looking forward to more work with RJO (hope they invite me back) and am so glad the program went well. Those who know me know that I love writing custom curriculum, and I am continuing to hone my craft of writing activities for specific learning outcomes. Now after learning more about the individuals, and the industry I have tons of great ideas for next year!

Thank you RJO for making me a part of your family! Its nice to have friends in the diamond business. See you next year at #RJONextGen or my…. Diamond University 201!