Course Description:
Skilled presenters have the power to move people and inspire change. Becoming a more effective and dynamic public speaker means making the complex accessible, connecting the dots for your audience, and developing confidence over canned answers. By using storytelling and other communications strategies to become a better presenter, you’ll resonate with your audience in new and more meaningful ways.
In this course, you’ll learn how to grab attention immediately, the importance of simplifying your visuals, and why it’s critical to know your message well enough to speak directly to your audience — not to your notes and not to your screen. We’ll address the mistakes most people make, and how to avoid them to ensure that you’re communicating with poise, confidence and conviction in a way that captivates your audience.
You’ll also learn how to:
– Understand the science behind emotional, engaging, and persuasive storytelling
– Identify the most effective types of stories to connect with your audience and gain buy-in
– Develop content that is concise, relevant, compelling, and memorable
– Cultivate your personal communication style and preparation process
– Learn effective delivery skills involving preparation, presence, vocal variety, body language, narratives and humor, and handling nerves
Whether it’s over Zoom or winning over the room, by mastering your public speaking skills you will learn to overcome doubt, increase your confidence and find your voice.
University of Washington
Department of Communication