As our careers in academia develop, we have to speak to an ever-wider range of audiences.
Whether it’s a lecture, conference, meeting or open day, the variety can be deeply satisfying, but it also poses challenges. Audiences can rapidly form lasting opinions about a speaker’s qualities. Even those with extensive experience can find such events daunting.
This session looks at practical approaches to varying communication style and content to suit a range of non-specialist audiences – from an industrial partner to a Government Minister, intelligent layperson or colleague from another discipline. It will enable you to speak with confidence, authority and impact about research and areas of expertise, and to find a style of delivery that is clear and authentic. We will explore ways to achieve physical and vocal presence, connect with people in a variety of contexts and handle difficult questions with aplomb.
Some of the major topics addressed are likely to be:
- Speaking about what you do in formal and informal contexts
- Convey complex information and challenging ideas with clarity
- Avoid ‘dumbing down’ or patronising non-subject experts
- Speak with confidence, authority and impact
- Achieve physical and vocal presence
- Understand the power of stories
- Connect with people in a variety of contexts.
What our clients say
[The] interpretation of the brief, tailoring of content and varied delivery made for a productive and enjoyable event … I wouldn’t hesitate to use Pete or VOX again.
… an inspiring coach who makes an enduring difference to the way people communicate, lead and manage.
Participants find the sessions great fun, and at the same time are amazed at how blind they might have been to their own and others’ behaviours, be it in a meeting, or relationships with junior or senior colleagues.
I had a fantastic experience with VOX Coaching … in preparation for interviews for large grants from research councils. In simple words, without [their] help, it would have been very challenging to perform well at the interview.
Engaging, professional, dynamically responsive to clients’ needs. Well said and well done!
