Course Outcomes

This introductory communication course will:

  • Provide an overview of the communication process.
  • Discuss the value of likability in the workplace.
  • Introduce fundamental techniques for building positive relationships.
  • Provide suggestions for improving questioning and listening skills.
  • Explain the concept and importance of self-awareness.

Program Overview

People most enjoy working with people they like. This introductory communication skills workshop focuses on likability and the attributes likable people share. During this program, participants will review the communication process and identify barriers that prevent people from having a common understanding or effective dialog. The group will also explore basic listening skills and the importance of using questions. The program concludes with a self-awareness assessment and action planning segment.

Program Objectives

At this program’s conclusion, participants should be able to:

  • Explain the communication process and identify common communication barriers.
  • Describe the traits likable people share and how those traits can be replicated.
  • Better read verbal and non-verbal cues.
  • Identify what their non-verbal messages are telling others.
  • Listen actively and empathetically.
  • Assess their communication strengths and opportunities for improvement.

The following outline highlights some of the course’s key learning points. As part of your training program, we will modify content as needed to meet your business objectives. Upon request, we will provide you with a copy of the participant materials prior to the session(s).

Workshop Outline

Model Behavior: Understanding What Should Happen

This program begins with a discussion about the communication process and what should happen if everyone is sending and receiving messages accurately. In addition to discussing the ideal state, we will examine what happens more frequently – miscommunication. We will identify the factors that contribute to misunderstanding or lack of understanding on the part of both the sender and receiver.
 

Likability: The Ten Commandments of Positive Relationships

Likable people share some common traits. In this part of the workshop, we’ll discuss the value of likability in the workplace and the specific behaviors likable people exhibit. We will also explore actions and attitudes that cause friction, distrust, discomfort, and dislike.
 

The Dance: Finding a Rhythm

Good people skills require back-and-forth exchanges. Exceptional communicators are able to get into a rhythm with others. They read cues, ask questions, and listen to what is and is not said. In this part of the program, we will explore the fundamental skills of good communication and the subtle actions people can take to put others at ease and build stronger relationships.
 

Back and Forth: Asking Questions and Listening for Answers

Great communicators know that questions are often the secret sauce in the recipe for good communication. In this seminar segment, we will explore different types of questions and how and when to use them.  We will also discuss the importance of listening and practice several activities to improve listening skills.
 

Non-Verbal Messages: Communicating Without Saying a Word

During the next part of the workshop, we will take a deeper dive into body language and other non-verbal messages. Participants will participate in several exercises where they will learn how people make decisions and evaluate others based on what they see. We will then talk about how to use that knowledge to communicate specific messages. For example, what does “confident” look like? How does “professional” stand, walk, and sit? What does “attentive and responsible” do?

 

Mirror Mirror: Improving Self Awareness

You’re only as good as your ability to honestly evaluate yourself. In this portion of the course, we will talk about self-awareness and the importance of self-development. During this segment, participants will complete a self-awareness assessment. Next, they will craft a development plan to enhance their communication skills.
 
By the conclusion of this interactive course, participants should understand likability and be able to leverage it for stronger and more productive workplace relationships.