Western Carolina University’s Office of Professional Growth and Enrichment is offering a “Powerful Communication Strategies for Women” workshop from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at WCU’s instructional site at Biltmore Park.
Betty Farmer, professor of communication and public relations at WCU and owner of Farmer Communications, will serve as presenter for the workshop.
“How we communicate has a profound impact on our workplace relationships and, consequently, our careers,” Farmer said. “Research has documented many gender differences in workplace communication. For example, women, more than men, downplay their accomplishments and express less confidence in and more fear of public speaking. To succeed, every woman must identify and address her communication challenges, understand both feminine and masculine communication styles, and commit to building a powerful professional persona.”
The knowledge- and skill-building workshop is designed to help participants gain a greater understanding of key gender differences in communication, including taking credit for accomplishments, tentative language use, apologizing, interrupting, nonverbal cues, listening, conflict management and public speaking. Participants will complete a self-assessment instrument, engage in a variety of role-playing exercises to develop key skills, and develop their confidence and presence in public speaking.
Designed for women only, the workshop is appropriate for women at all stages of their careers and across all workplace types. Participants can earn seven continuing professional education credits from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy and 6.5 professional development credits from the Society for Human Resource Management.
The cost is $125. For registration information, visit pdp.wcu.edu or call 828-227-7397.
WCU’s Office of Professional Growth and Enrichment, part of the Division of Educational Outreach, provides opportunities to individuals to further their careers through education and training.