Working smarter in teams for support staff
Working smarter in teams for support staff
30 April 2026, 13h - 17h | Ghent VIB-UGent FSVM II
12 May | online
General context
Effective teamwork depends on clear expectations, open communication, and trust. This workshop provides practical tools to improve collaboration, prevent misunderstandings, and strengthen team alignment in both lab and office environments. Participants will learn to express their goals, provide constructive feedback, and manage interpersonal dynamics with confidence.
After this session, participants will be able to:
Clarify expectations within their team and align responsibilities.
Apply SMART and OUTCOME techniques to set realistic, motivating goals.
Balance facts and emotions in communication to reduce tension and conflict.
Give, receive, and implement feedback effectively.
Distinguish between influence and manipulation in daily interactions.
Present their work clearly and confidently during lab or team meetings.
The session blends short theoretical frameworks with interactive discussions, roleplays, and practical exercises. Participants will work through real-life teamwork scenarios and reflect on their own collaboration patterns.
An online follow-up session allows participants to share progress and challenges, and optional individual coaching is available up to three months after the workshop.
Support staff who work closely with teams — in the lab, administration, or project coordination — and who wish to improve collaboration, communication, and team effectiveness.
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
Being clear about expectations: no surprises in teamwork!
- Why it matters to really know your team
- Balancing facts & feelings: preventing misunderstandings and reducing conflict
Setting team goals that work
- Using SMART & OUTCOME in a practical way
- Influence vs. manipulation: what’s the difference in daily practice?
Practical tips for lab presentations
How to give, receive and implement feedback in the lab
- The essence of feedback.
- Asking the right questions: am I making myself clear?
Practical info
30 April 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Technologiepark 75
9052 Zwijnaarde
Belgium
30 April 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.
30 April 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.
30 April 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.