IowaWORKS hosts ‘Real Colors’

Decorah - Do you know what your colors are? If you want to find out you may want to mark your calendars and come to IowaWORKS, Decorah, on Jan. 24, to find out.

Two staff members at IowaWORKS, Decorah, recently completed training to become Real Colors facilitators. Career Advisors and workshop facilitators, Those two staff members, Amy Chicos and Ashley Goltz will be facilitating the workshop.

The Real Colors personality instrument is presented in a fast, fun, interactive format where participants can learn how to quickly identify the four temperaments (Blue, Green, Gold or Orange). It provides users with an effective tool for understanding human behavior, for uncovering motivators specific to each temperament and for improving communication skills.

The three-hour workshop provides an opportunity for people to examine who they are and how they relate to their associates in the workplace as well as personal life. Temperament theory is a methodology for helping people understand human behavior, allowing them to recognize and value the differences in others. 

The knowledge offers valuable insight into what is most important to them, why they may react to situations differently than others, how you can best communicate with them, and more; both at home and in the work place. What you can take away from this workshop is easy to incorporate into all areas of daily life.

Trainer, Amy Chicos said, “I have taken other personality tests and learned other communication methods, and I was genuinely surprised and pleased at how effective Real Colors is for understanding and interacting with others, as well as for understanding oneself. Why we care about some things more than others might, and why we have certain reactions or make certain choices. 

“I also learned that the general population contains greater or lesser percentages of certain temperament types, which can significantly impact the common values and trends of a group or community.”

Wondering why that coworker processes things over and over again before coming to a decision? Do you see yourself as a “let’s just get to the point and make a decision” type person? Does that Board member you sit by write down meticulous notes at every meeting and it drives you crazy? Taking the “Real Colors” may help you understand, appreciate and value those irritating “qualities,” that others have.

Why is this valuable to employers and workers, organizations and Boards?

“Communication, how we get along with others, and understanding the differences of others are some of the biggest issues for any workplace or organization,” said Chicos. 

“How time is lost or energy wasted on unnecessary conflict and blaming others? Fundamentally these issues all come down to awareness. Real Colors is about increasing that awareness and learning how to approach others in more effective ways. It provides an objective and easily understandable ways to recognize others’ personality strengths. 

“Teams function more powerfully and efficiently when people can work in the area of their strengths. Colors are easy for people to remember, so it’s easy to use on a daily basis.”

Kirkwood Community College, Arizona State, US Bank, Illinois DHS, Arizona Department of Corrections, the 17th Judicial District of Colorado, United Way of Central Iowa are just a few that have utilized Real Colors.

The Real Colors workshop will take place on Jan. 24 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the IowaWORKS Center located at 312 Winnebago St, Decorah. The workshop is open to any individual who wishes to attend. 

Registration in advance is required. To register, email amy.chicos@iwd.iowa.gov or by call either 563-379-9638 or 563-382-0457. There is no cost to participate. If you can’t make it this month, no stress, Real Colors will be available at IowaWORKS, Decorah, on a monthly basis.