Description
This course provides participants with tools to communicate effectively with their managers, from understanding expectations to handling feedback and navigating challenging conversations. It emphasizes clarity, strategic listening, assertiveness, and professional empathy, helping participants develop a collaborative and respectful approach to workplace communication. Through case studies, exercises, and role-playing scenarios, participants will gain confidence in managing both routine and high-stakes conversations with their superiors.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will:
- Understand and practice essential workplace communication techniques.
- Learn how to adapt communication styles to align with different managerial personalities.
- Develop skills for giving and receiving feedback constructively.
- Strengthen their ability to negotiate, set boundaries, and manage expectations.
- Gain tools for managing conflict and navigating difficult conversations professionally.
Course Structure & Modules:
Module 1: Foundations of Effective Workplace Communication
- Why Communication with Your Manager Matters: The impact on career growth and job satisfaction.
- Understanding Professional Communication Styles: Adapting to direct, consultative, and collaborative styles.
- Identifying Communication Barriers: Recognizing common obstacles in hierarchical interactions.
- Setting a Foundation for Clear Communication: Developing openness and trust with your manager.
Module 2: Active Listening and Empathy in the Workplace
- Principles of Active Listening: Showing engagement and understanding.
- Reading Non-Verbal Cues: Understanding body language and tone.
- Practicing Empathy and Understanding Your Manager’s Perspective: Building a foundation of respect.
- Techniques for Listening in Challenging Situations: Staying composed and open.
Module 3: Communicating Expectations and Goals
- Clarifying Job Responsibilities: Setting boundaries and understanding your role.
- Defining Clear Objectives with Your Manager: Aligning on goals and timelines.
- Handling Ambiguity: Strategies for seeking clarity without appearing hesitant.
- Documenting Agreements and Commitments: Following up on conversations to ensure mutual understanding.
Module 4: Assertive Communication Without Overstepping
- The Art of Assertiveness: Expressing needs and opinions respectfully.
- Using “I” Statements and Positive Language: Approaching sensitive topics professionally.
- Respectful Disagreement: How to present differing viewpoints constructively.
- Balancing Assertiveness with Humility: Knowing when to push and when to step back.
Module 5: Receiving and Acting on Feedback
- Handling Constructive Criticism: Techniques to keep feedback productive.
- Separating Personal and Professional Reactions: Responding without defensiveness.
- Seeking Clarification When Needed: Ensuring you understand feedback for improvement.
- Implementing Feedback and Following Up: Demonstrating growth and accountability.
Module 6: Giving Feedback to Your Manager (When Appropriate)
- When and How to Offer Feedback: Timing and approach.
- Framing Feedback Positively: Suggestions rather than criticism.
- Using Diplomacy and Tact: Communicating concerns without offending.
- Feedback on Team Dynamics or Processes: Addressing productivity or morale issues professionally.
Module 7: Building Trust and Showing Accountability
- The Importance of Reliability and Accountability: Building your manager’s trust.
- Communicating Progress and Challenges: Regular updates to maintain transparency.
- Owning Mistakes and Taking Responsibility: Showing integrity under pressure.
- Following Through on Commitments: Reinforcing dependability and trust.
Module 8: Managing Up and Anticipating Needs
- What is “Managing Up”? Understanding your manager’s needs and preferences.
- Anticipating Challenges and Proposing Solutions: Being proactive and solution-oriented.
- Preparing and Presenting Ideas to Your Manager: Structuring proposals effectively.
- Aligning Your Work with Departmental Goals: Showing understanding of the broader vision.
Module 9: Navigating Difficult Conversations and Conflict Resolution
- Approaching Sensitive Topics: Preparing for discussions on pay, workload, and performance.
- De-escalating Tense Situations: Techniques for keeping conversations calm and focused.
- When to Escalate and When to Let Go: Recognizing when issues need further intervention.
- Using Mediation Techniques for Conflict: Facilitating resolution respectfully.
Module 10: Time Management and Prioritization Conversations
- Communicating Workload and Deadlines: Addressing potential overload respectfully.
- Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout: Discussing work-life balance professionally.
- Discussing Prioritization: Negotiating priorities when workloads change.
- Updating on Progress and Roadblocks: Keeping managers informed proactively.
Module 11: Preparing for Performance Reviews
- Reflecting on Achievements and Challenges: Preparing evidence of your contributions.
- Setting Personal Goals and Career Development Plans: Aligning with organizational objectives.
- Handling Constructive Criticism in Reviews: Taking feedback as an opportunity.
- Presenting Your Career Aspirations: Expressing your goals with clarity and respect.
Module 12: Handling Remote and Digital Communication with Your Manager
- Best Practices for Digital Communication: Email, messaging, and video calls.
- Maintaining Professionalism in Virtual Settings: Adapting tone and approach for remote work.
- Documenting Digital Interactions: Keeping a record of key discussions and agreements.
- Managing Response Times and Availability: Setting expectations around digital communication.
Module 13: Practical Exercises and Case Studies
- Role-Playing Common Scenarios: Practicing difficult conversations and feedback sessions.
- Analyzing Case Studies of Effective Manager Communication: Learning from real-life examples.
- Reflection Exercises for Self-Awareness: Identifying personal strengths and areas for growth.
- Creating a Personalized Communication Plan: Developing a strategy to improve manager relations.
Module 14: Final Project and Certification
- Final Project: Develop and execute a communication strategy with a manager in a real-world setting.
- Project Presentation and Feedback: Share experiences and insights with peers.
- Certification Exam: Demonstrate proficiency in manager-employee communication skills.
Additional Course Resources:
- Templates for feedback conversations, meeting agendas, and email best practices.
- Access to interactive exercises, quizzes, and role-playing activities.
- Downloadable resources and reading lists for further professional development.
- Regular Q&A sessions with workplace communication experts.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, participants will:
- Communicate more effectively and strategically with their managers.
- Navigate professional conflicts and feedback with respect and assertiveness.
- Proactively manage relationships with superiors by aligning with their communication style.
- Receive a certificate of completion in Communicating with Superiors, demonstrating proficiency.
This course is ideal for employees across all levels looking to build stronger communication skills with their managers, enhance collaboration, and achieve better workplace dynamics.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.