When GE execs wanted to brighten up their black-and-white training materials for their Leadership Practices Program for Women, they did so literally—with color.
The program, administered by two women executives (who job share), seeks to address and provide insight into the unique concerns of talented, “high-potential” female employees. The facilitators, Nancy Schumann and Sandy Sullivan, aim to make the program comfortable for these employees, who may feel “isolated in their challenges,” and the workbook is a key component.
According to an article in Connecticut’s Shoreline Times, to make the workbook livelier and more engaging, the facilitators called on local artist Jill Butler to add some of her signature whimsical and colorful illustrations that related directly to females.
Schumann told the newspaper that the program is more “an experience” than mere training, and Sullivan added that 90 percent of participants say the program “changed my life.”
The illustrations are also available as posters so participants can display them in their work area for inspiration. Since the program involves GE employees in all locations, Butler’s illustrations are now posted in cubicles around the world!