Offers for Postdocs (R2)

This is an activity-based workshop led by a theatre professional whose expertise is in helping the speaker effectively communicate the importance and relevance of the work and the core message in the talk. A key aspect of the training focuses on strengthening the narrative, the emotional tone, and the delivery of the talk in order to define and support the speaker’s own dynamic style.

The training will help presenters gain more confidence in their performances and – most important – define strategies to deal with feedback and questions after their presentations.

The seminar provides participants the opportunity to perfect their public-speaking skills. Constructive feedback from the trainer and group give the quality input in order to follow-up with presentation goals in ongoing practice with peers.

Participants will be required to prepare a 3 to 5-minute introduction of their topic incorporating also the use of a slide. This will provide a basis for applying the practical aims of the workshop.

On day one, in the morning session, focus will be given to strategies for enhancing the narrative, optimizing descriptive language and identifying a dynamic structure. Participants will be guided through interactive exercises to improve verbal and non-verbal communication, improve the ability to listen and react generously, and to integrate focusing techniques which empower the speaker. The afternoon session is dedicated to presenting and receiving feedback and coaching on their 5-minute talks.

On day two, participants will reflect on best practices for handling the question and answer. Participants will learn how to deal with “worst case scenarios” and handling aggressive comments and difficult questions while staying polite, confident and succinct. They will practice listening, expanding thinking time and use the discussion to reiterate their key message. Participants will have an opportunity to test their performance in a Q&A roleplay session in the afternoon session.

Contents in brief:

• Engaging the audience in one’s talk
• Enhancing the narrative aspect of the talk
• Affirming the strengths and individual style of the speaker
• Developing effective tactics for handling difficult questions
• Thinking on one's feet
• Using professional language
• Managing anxiety

Methods:

• voice and body techniques
• partner work/role-play
• language practice and analysis
• tailored feedback

This course can be recognized for your Higher Education Teaching Certificate (opens in new tab) – Basic Competences, as 16 work units. Please contact the Ingenium team regarding your participation certificate.