Communicating in Teams and Difficult Situations (cancelled)

Keywords: Basic communication theories and principles, Clear communication based on clear goals, Authenticity and congruent expression, Co-creating meaning and understanding, The art of listening: active listening, looping and reframing, listen with empathy, Dialogue structure and meeting structure, I-Messages, constructive feedback and sandwich technique, Mastering communication in the broad field of diversity, The art of saying “No“, Solution-oriented questions, Adjusting the communication style to the situation

Introduction to the course topics:

Did you know that your communication skills have a huge impact on your success and wellbeing at work? Interpersonal dynamics can either boost motivation and performance or - if it does not run well - consume a lot of your energy.

This workshop links communication theory to practical exercises in an interactive manner. This way you will get new insights into your own communication patterns. Furthermore, you will gain appreciation of the value of other communication styles. Learning how to apply useful techniques will save you from common pitfalls.

We will focus on achieving a goal-oriented, clear communication with a reasonable dialogue structure. Furthermore we will look at different levels of expression to ensure authentic and convincing conversations.

You will explore powerful communication tools such as creating common ground or clarifying misunderstandings through the art of listening, solving difficult situations with solution-oriented questions and providing and receiving constructive feedback.

Course aims:

• Acquire knowledge of relevant communication theories
• Improve communication skills on different levels
• Reflect on own communication patterns
• Improve listening skills
• Solve difficult situations with questioning and feedback techniques

Teaching methods: Trainer input, group exercises, demonstrations, role-play activities, examples, feedback, etc. Each participant is encouraged to explore his/her style and thus expand their individual set of communication skills..

This course fits doctoral candidates in the following phase: in the beginning of their doctorate | during their doctorate │ at the end of their doctorate

Participation requirements: none

Literature: Optional: Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, Switzler (2021) Crucial Conversations. 3rd ed. McGraw-Hill, New York.

Technical requirements: Laptop/tablet with stable internet connection, microphone, webcam, Zoom (in most cases)

Additonal information, notes: none