Building Bridges: The Heart of Effective Communication

A two day workshop developed and delivered by Cathy Fenwick

Effective communication requires, at its foundation, minds that are open to possibilities and hearts that are willing to trust.

We all need work that is meaningful and people around us who care. We want and deserve to have respect and dignity in our homes, in our workplaces and in our communities. This workshop helps people to understand the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, explore the vulnerability of our emotions, and build trusting relationships. When we enjoy being together and working together we are more effective, efficient and productive. We are happier and healthier.

The best leaders and workers are good communicators. They keep people informed and give information clearly and in such a way that others can understand. They are attentive listeners and are responsive to questions and suggestions. Research confirms a positive correlation between effective communication and improved working relationships, greater personal satisfaction, a reduction in grievances, better problem solving and improved productivity.

Objectives

This workshop will help people to:

• develop greater self-awareness and confidence
• develop qualities of personal leadership
• use effective communication styles
• develop attentive listening skills
• deal with emotions effectively
• develop rapport and trust
• increase cooperative interaction
• foster team spirit
• make working together more fun

Suggested agenda for two day workshop

Day one

   AM Introductions

• What in the world is going on?
• Communication skills needed in today’s workplace
• Inspired leaders and inspired workers

   Break

• Qualities of personal leadership
• What’s really important?
• Self-care and balance
• Communication styles

   Noon

• Communication styles - continued
• Roadblocks to effective communication
• - old patterns
• - rights
• - self-talk

   Break

• Healthy self-talk
• Assertive expression
• Attentive listening
• Role play

   Wrap-up

Day two

   AM Review and practice

• Anger Do’s and Don’ts
• Affirmations to increase frustration tolerance
• Giving and responding to feedback / criticism
• Role play

   Break

• Positive approaches to conflict
• - attitudes I have about conflict
• - challenge the myths
• - sources of conflict
• - steps to resolving conflict

   Noon

• Building teams
• Connection and commitment
• Keys to team success
• Problem solving tips for teams

   Break

• Tying it all together
• - review concepts
• - extra time where needed
• - role play
• Having fun and getting more done

Important: Ask all participants to bring 4 small containers with lids and Something Wonderful (whatever that means to them).