The Art of Leadership Toronto (SPONSORED)

Participants at this year's The Art of Leadership Toronto 2012 were provided with a truly unique experience during which they heard from six of today's internationally renowned bestselling authors. The one-day conference, which took place on June 5th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, welcomed 1,300 of Canada's most influential leaders from a wide range of industries.

Hosted by the Art of Productions Inc., this one-of-a-kind conference not only introduced its participants to six remarkably insightful visionaries, but also created a unparalleled networking opportunity for its attendees. From leadership development professionals to business consultants and executive directors, the event brought together leaders with varying levels of expertise, experience and knowledge.

The first speaker of the conference was Marcus Buckingham, the bestselling author of 'First, Break All the Rules' and 'Now, Discover Your Strengths.' Honing in on why effective leadership today should not be executed with a one-size-fits-all approach, Buckingham explains the importance of leadership practices that align with a manager's strengths. He then outlines nine different types of leaders, reviewing the benefits and advantages of each one in today's fast-moving business environment. Buckingham's inspiring speech taught participants how to leverage each and every one of their strengths and skills in their management roles.

After a brief networking break, Chester Elton took the stage to discuss culture and productivity in the workplace. The author of the two bestselling books 'The Carrot Principle' and 'The Orange Revolution,' Elton drew in the audience with his infectiously charming personality and engaging content. Sharing statistics, research and personal anecdotes, he taught the audience how to create a work environment and culture in which employees are committed and passionate. His performance was both energizing and informative, teaching attendees how to create a team of devoted and motivated employees.

After Chester, conference attendees welcomed former TED speaker and author of the New York Times Bestseller 'Quiet' to discuss the importance of recognizing the varying work styles of introverts and extroverts in offices, work environments and recruitment processes. Cain, an introvert herself, explained how perceived timidness and reserved personalities are often interpreted negatively by employers, resulting in lost opportunities and potential hires. Sharing fascinating research from her distinguished book, as well as personal experiences, she provided the audience with a unique perspective on leadership and the many forms it can embody.

Author of 'Innovation Nation' and two-time Emmy nominee Leonard Brody energized participants with his powerful and engaging stage presence directly after the lunch break. Brody spotlighted society's transformations in everything from the way business is done to new channels of communication and people's access to information as being deeply rooted in the evolution of technology.

After a brief networking break, bestselling author and innovation consultant Stephen Shapiro equipped conference attendees with a multitude of methods and tips for maximizing a team's innovative and creative potential. Offering leaders and managers a different perspective on what it means to be innovative, Shapiro taught attendees how to use nontraditional methods to generate breakthrough ideas. His insightful content was effectively delivered by way of brief exercises and frequent participation.

Last, but certainly not least, the audience heard from Vijay Govindarajan, an innovation and strategy leader and the author of the bestselling book 'The Other Side of Innovation.' His speech ushered in a breath of cutting-edge ideas on how to best predict market and consumer trends and optimize a team's performance. Govindarajan enlightened participants by providing effective ways to manage the present, while also illustrating the paramountcy of planning for the future.

Members of the Trend Hunter team who had the privilege of attending The Art of Leadership Toronto 2012 Conference, left feeling inspired and motivated to apply the breadth of strategies, ideas and concepts presented by the six speakers throughout the day. An event, which was impeccably organized and executed provided its participants the perfect balance of an enjoyable and highly educational experience.