Communication And Presentation Skills For Economists Course: Sharing Insights, Influencing Decisions

Introduction:

Economists often possess valuable insights and expertise, but their impact is limited if they cannot communicate effectively. This Communication and Presentation Skills for Economists training course equips you with the essential skills to translate complex economic concepts into clear, concise, and compelling narratives. You'll learn how to tailor your message to different audiences, craft persuasive presentations, and confidently communicate your findings, influencing decisions and driving positive change. From writing policy briefs to delivering impactful presentations, this course empowers you to become a more effective and influential communicator.

Target Audience:

This course is designed for economists and related professionals who need to communicate their work effectively. The target audience includes:

• Economists working in academia, government, and the private sector
• Researchers and analysts
• Consultants and advisors
• Policy analysts and public servants
• Anyone seeking to improve their communication and presentation skills

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this Communication and Presentation Skills for Economists training course, participants will be able to:

• Craft clear and concise written communication, including reports, briefs, and articles.
• Deliver engaging and persuasive presentations to diverse audiences.
• Tailor their communication style to different stakeholders, including policymakers, business leaders, and the general public.
• Explain complex economic concepts in a simple and accessible way.
• Use data visualization and storytelling techniques to communicate economic insights effectively.
• Handle questions and challenging audiences with confidence.
• Develop their active listening and interpersonal communication skills.
• Improve their overall communication effectiveness and impact.
• Enhance their professional presence and credibility.
• Become more influential communicators in their field.

Duration

5 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Communication for Economists

• Why communication skills are crucial for economists: Impact, influence, and career advancement.
• Understanding your audience: Tailoring your message to different stakeholders (policymakers, business leaders, general public, academics).
• Key communication principles: Clarity, conciseness, accuracy, and persuasiveness.
• Course overview: Structure, learning objectives, and assessment methods.

Module 2: Writing for Different Audiences I: Reports and Briefs

• Structuring reports and briefs: Executive summaries, key findings, recommendations.
• Using clear and concise language: Avoiding jargon and technical terms when appropriate.
• Presenting data effectively: Charts, graphs, and tables.
• Writing persuasively: Supporting your arguments with evidence and logic.

Module 3: Writing for Different Audiences II: Articles and Op-Eds

• Writing for a broader audience: Simplifying complex economic concepts.
• Crafting compelling narratives: Storytelling techniques for economists.
• Op-ed writing: Expressing your views and influencing public opinion.
• Working with the media: Communicating economic insights to journalists.

Module 4: Presentation Skills I: Designing Effective Presentations

• Presentation structure: Creating a clear and logical flow.
• Visual aids: Using slides effectively (less is more!).
• Data visualization: Communicating data insights through compelling visuals.
• Storytelling with data: Weaving data into a narrative.

Module 5: Presentation Skills II: Delivering Engaging Presentations

• Delivery techniques: Voice modulation, body language, and eye contact.
• Engaging the audience: Interactive elements and Q&A.
• Handling difficult questions and challenging audiences.
• Practicing and rehearsing presentations.

Module 6: Communicating Economic Concepts Clearly

• Simplifying complex ideas: Breaking down economic concepts into understandable parts.
• Using analogies and metaphors: Making abstract ideas more concrete.
• Explaining technical terms in plain language.
• Developing a "communication toolkit" of effective explanations.

Module 7: Data Visualization and Storytelling

• Choosing the right chart type for your data.
• Creating clear and informative charts and graphs.
• Telling stories with data: Building a narrative around your visuals.
• Using data visualization tools and software.

Module 8: Communicating with Policymakers

• Understanding the policy-making process.
• Tailoring your message to policymakers' needs and priorities.
• Writing policy briefs and memos.
• Presenting economic evidence to policymakers effectively.

Module 9: Communicating with the Media and the Public

• Working with journalists: Building relationships and communicating effectively.
• Writing press releases and media advisories.
• Giving media interviews: Preparing key messages and handling questions.
• Communicating economic insights to the general public: Using social media and other channels.

Module 10: Interpersonal Communication Skills

• Active listening: Understanding others' perspectives.
• Building rapport: Establishing trust and credibility.
• Negotiation and persuasion: Influencing others' opinions and decisions.
• Conflict resolution: Handling disagreements constructively.

Module 11: Building Your Communication Portfolio

• Developing a portfolio of your written and presented work.
• Seeking feedback on your communication skills.
• Networking and building relationships with other communicators.
• Continuously improving your communication skills.

Module 12: Advanced Communication Strategies

• Crisis communication: Communicating effectively during challenging situations.
• Public speaking: Delivering speeches and presentations to large audiences.
• Using social media effectively for communication and outreach.
• Developing a personal brand as a communicator.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.