“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

George Bernard Shaw  

Format: 1 hour keynote - 2 day seminar

Communications provide the link through which information is shared, opinions are expressed, feedback is provided and goals are formulated. Work can not be done without communication. It is necessary to communicate in order to advise, train and inform. Members of an organization must translate corporate goals into action and results. In order for this to happen, all forms of correspondence must flow freely throughout the organizational structure.

There is also a correlation between the willingness of every level of the organization to communicate openly and frequently and the satisfaction expressed by the workers. Most organizational predicaments from misunderstandings to disasters; from small frustrations to major morale problems can be traced back to either a lack of communication or ineffective technique.

Communication does not take place unless there is understanding between the communicator and the audience. Simply learning to write or read or speak is not enough. Does one make music by merely striking the keys of a piano? The difference between making noise and making music is study, understanding technique and practice, practice, practice. The same is true for communications. The difference between talking, reading, writing or hearing and communicating is study, understanding technique and practice, practice, practice.

The process of communication will be examined. Each component will be studied and the participants will be given practical advise on how to increase their propensity for successful communication. Messages must be clearly stated, must be brief and well planned and must answer the questions who, what, when, where and why.

The sending modes of communication are speaking, writing and nonverbal messages. The receiving modes are listening, reading and observation. Each of these modes are used in the process of getting work accomplished. Improvement in the effectiveness of any one of these modes will result in higher productivity and increased satisfaction. It is not simply a matter of how much one communicates, but how well.

The keynote presentation will cover the highlights of solid communication technique. The universal principles of building communication links can be explored.

The single day session will contain segments on communication channels in general and the modes of listening and speaking. Nonverbal communication and writing will be introduced, but not comprehensively developed.

The two day session will contain modules on communications in general, verbal presentations, conducting effective meetings, nonverbal messages, facilitation, listening techniques, and writing proficiency.