<p><span class="p-body">Leslie Nydick’s career has reached across industries to real estate, design, and construction, where she navigated complex negotiations and managed high-stakes conflicts. When she decided to pivot her career, she focused on communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution. That path led her to NYU SPS, where she completed the Mediation Apprenticeship course and stayed connected with her professors.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">“I went on to develop and teach several courses in the Mediation Certificate program,” she says. “Later, I proposed a new course on conflict management techniques for managers and leaders, which started as a summer intensive and quickly attracted students from all over the world.” Now, she teaches in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/human-capital-management.html" title="Certificate in Human Capital Management">Certificate in Human Capital Management</a> program, preparing students to manage workplace challenges with confidence.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">According to Nydick, effective communication and conflict resolution are no longer optional in leadership roles. “Conflict resolution is a must-have skill for managers,” she explains.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Her courses go beyond theory. “Students engage with real-world scenarios in real-time, bringing in updates from their own experiences each week. They serve as advisors to one another, refining their ability to ask powerful questions, manage assumptions, and reframe their communication styles.” This hands-on approach ensures students leave with practical, immediately applicable skills.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Success in human capital management requires adaptability and strong interpersonal skills. “Change is constant, and success hinges on being an effective communicator, skilled negotiator, and proactive conflict manager,” Nydick says. “This program provides a strong foundation, preparing students to lead and adapt in an ever-evolving workplace.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Beyond coursework, she emphasizes the value of networking. “I always tell my classes: Networking with your peers and instructors is the priceless bonus of taking a course at NYU SPS,” she shares. She remains connected with students from her earliest days of teaching, reinforcing the lifelong impact of the program.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Step up your leadership skills when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/human-capital-management.html" title="Certificate in Human Capital Management">Certificate in Human Capital Management</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>