Navigating change with confidence for support staff
Navigating change with confidence for support staff
28 May 2026, 13h - 17h | Ghent VIB-UGent FSVM II
9 June 2026 | online
General context
Change is constant in research environments — from shifting priorities to new processes or leadership structures. This module focuses on developing resilience, adaptability, and time management skills to help participants navigate change with confidence. It also provides tools to handle resistance, manage difficult situations, and communicate effectively during transitions.
After this session, participants will be able to:
Manage last-minute changes and requests effectively.
Identify key people to involve during transitions.
Use practical time-management tools to stay focused and organized.
Recognize and address resistance constructively.
Apply DESC and COSMOS techniques when handling confrontation or difficult conversations with supervisors or PIs.
Make meetings more efficient and purposeful.
This highly practical workshop combines reflection, group discussion, and scenario-based exercises. Participants will work through real challenges, practice structured communication tools, and share strategies for maintaining balance and focus under pressure.
An online follow-up session and - if desired - individual coaching are available for continued support up to three months after the training.
Support staff across research and administrative units who want to strengthen their ability to adapt, prioritize, and communicate effectively in times of change.
Trainers
Barbara Baert
As a laboratory manager, Barbara soon discovered her passion for training and coaching. Her scientific studies taught her analytical thinking, but managing and guiding managers, employees and students trained her in the business world. 12 years of experience in people management, that's what makes your toolbox grow!
In 2021, however, Barbara opted for a career switch to professional company training and coaching. The focus included mentoring, sharpening professional soft skills, team operations and (self)leadership. and so she started B-management coaching & consulting (BMC).
As a professional skill set facilitator, she is always looking for new challenges with an emphasis on continuous improvement and broadening her horizon. She believes in goal-oriented professional transformation with a view to maintaining individuality and growing your own tools.
Helping others to step out of their comfort zone based on their own talent and strengths is one of her driving forces that she feels is essential for transforming managers and new, upcoming young potentials. She is an open-minded and disciplined professional with a quality-driven mindset.
Program
Understanding and dealing with change effectively
- How to cope last minute changes or requests?
- Who do you need to involve during change?
Time management
- Detecting & overcoming time-waisters
- Tools for environmental time-control
Handling resistance & difficult situations
- My 'Why': How to stand your ground
- Handling confrontation with higher management and PI's: Use of DESC and COSMOS techniques
Smarter meetings: How do I handle a lab meeting or admin meeting more efficiently?
Practical info
28 May 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Technologiepark 75
9052 Zwijnaarde
Belgium
28 May 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
From Ghent Sint-Pieters station, you can take a bus to Technologiepark. Please check Routeplanner De Lijn for schedules.
28 May 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Looking for a custom cycling route? Try the online cycling route planner to easily and quickly identify the fastest, safest and/or most scenic route to any destination in Ghent.
Cycling route planner
Shared bicycles:
Several providers are active in the area.
Take a look at their platforms:
- Indigo Weel Pro app
- Bluebike
- DOTT
- BOLT eBikes
- Donkey Republic
There are also some public bicycle pumps at the park.
28 May 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
There is only one entrance to Technologiepark. At the entrance, please take a ticket - Parking is only allowed in regular parking spots (for instance in front of the building) and in the parking tower. Parking alongside the roads or in other places where there is no regular parking is prohibited.