BusinessU: Unlocking Voices: Understanding a Common Yet Overlooked Barrier to Effective Communication

Description

A 2023 study found that poor communication costs large companies up to $15,000 per employee annually. Additionally, 77% of CEOs report struggling to find the innovation and creativity they need to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Though well-intentioned leaders often encourage employees to speak up, project their voices, and bring more energy to their tone, the reality is that the relationship between effective communication and a person’s ability to vocalize their ideas is far more nuanced and complex.

An essential element of effective communication is understanding the internal factors that influence the sound, quality, and reliability of one’s voice—and, ultimately, their ability to speak up when it matters most. These factors can range from real or perceived threats—such as concerns about job security or cultural fit—to more subtle discomforts, like being new to the team or uncertain of one’s role along with many other additional influencing factors.

This interactive session will explore how these elements of voice and speech impact team collaboration and performance. Through practical exercises and discussions, participants will explore how to:

• Build confidence in their own voice to foster more open self-expression
• Enhance emotional intelligence and resilience to overcome communication barriers
• Establish new communication norms that encourage trust, openness, and collaboration

By equipping participants with these insights and tools, this session will help create an environment where every voice is valued, heard, and empowered to contribute.

Instruction by Samantha Whitehouse, InnerVoice Studio

Presenting Sponsor