Strategies for Effective Communication

This course equips learners with practical tools to enhance their communication skills in both personal and professional settings. It begins by breaking down the core components of communication—sender, message, receiver, feedback, and noise—while helping participants recognize their own communication style. From there, it guides learners through techniques for crafting clear, concise messages using strategies like the BLUF model and thoughtful word choice.

As the course progresses, learners will develop skills in active listening, empathy, and managing challenging conversations using proven frameworks. Additional modules focus on reading nonverbal cues, practicing digital communication etiquette, and adapting communication across different styles and cultures. With interactive activities and real-world scenarios throughout, this course supports learners in becoming more confident, effective, and inclusive communicators.

In partnership with:

Module 1: Understanding Communication Dynamics

Key Topics:

• The five core components of communication
• What is the communication cycle and why is it important
• Common communication barriers
• Understanding communication styles

Module 2: Crafting Clear, Concise Messages

Key Topics:

• Principles of clarity
• The B-L-U-F Model (Bottom Line Up Front)
• Introduction to framing in communication

Module 3: Active Listening & Empathy

Key Topics:

• The five levels of listening
• Active listening techniques
• Practicing empathy with a hands-on scenario activity

Module 4: Navigating Challenging Conversations

Key Topics:

• Understanding difficult conversations
• Conversation prep framework
• A step by step approach to preparing for challenging conversations

Module 5: Nonverbal Communication & Digital Etiquette

Key Topics:

• Types of body language and understanding cues
• Best practices for digital communication
• Signal alignment: what it is, why it’s important, examples, and strategies

Module 6: Communicating Across Styles & Cultures

Key Topics:

• How to adapt communication for global teams
• Find out what your social style is
• High-context vs. Low-context cultures