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Crucial Conversations, a popular professional development workshop series for faculty and staff, will be offered in two formats—in-person and virtually—beginning later this month. Crucial Influence, a new offering for leaders from the creators of Crucial Conversations, is also being held again this spring. Read on for details.

Crucial Conversations Program

Crucial conversations take place in organizations every day. They include:

• Conversations where stakes are high, emotions are strong and opinions differ;
• Conversations around work quality, time management, productivity, performance, customer satisfaction, sensitive issues, conflict or a strained relationship; and
• Conversations that are often avoided and/or not handled well, leading to poor outcomes.
• Workshop participants will learn how to spot when conversations become crucial, avoid repeating the same conversation, separate facts from stories and emotions, and make clearer decisions and commitments, among other skills.

2 Ways to Join

1. Seven-week virtual program for remote employees

• Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m. ET
• Jan. 23-March 5

2. Four-week in-person program

• Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Feb. 9-March 1
• North Campus location to be announced

Important Things to Note

• Whether attending virtually or in-person, participants must be available for all sessions as the skills taught each week build upon skills and concepts identified in previous sessions. If your schedule doesn’t allow for 100% participation, you can for a future offering.
• Managers and supervisors are highly encouraged to attend, as the program teaches skills that are especially applicable to those managing others.
• The program provides experiential learning through exercises, practice with real issues and group discussions.
• Because there is a cost of $350 per person to cover program materials, departmental approval is necessary. The fee will be charged to participants’ budget centers and approval from your supervisor and budget manager is required.
• Space is limited and registration is required, so sign up today!

Crucial Influence Program for Leaders

Another Crucial Learning program, Crucial Influence, will also be offered in person for faculty and staff leaders later this spring.

• Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon
• March 27-April 10
• North Campus location to be announced

As with Crucial Conversations, Crucial Influence participants must be able to attend all program sessions and there is a $350 cost to attend.

Please email Pam Gavenda, associate director of organizational development and training and Crucial Conversations/Crucial Influence certified trainer, if you have questions about either program.