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Daniel Moorer

Great speakers focus on voice, nonverbals, eye contact, body language, and storytelling to captivate their audiences. Moreover, as a leader, it is possible to communicate in such a manner and in such a tone of voice so as to inspire in others nothing but an intense desire to excel, making this form, potentially, the most powerful leadership-communication skill of all. This course focuses on the fundamentals of excellent oral communication.

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Great speakers focus on voice, nonverbals, eye contact, body language, and storytelling to captivate their audiences. Moreover, as a leader, it is possible to communicate in such a manner and in such a tone of voice so as to inspire in others nothing but an intense desire to excel, making this form, potentially, the most powerful leadership-communication skill of all. This course focuses on the fundamentals of excellent oral communication.

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM) degree offered on the Coursera platform. The ME-EM is designed to help engineers, scientists, and technical professionals move into leadership and management roles in the engineering and technical sectors. With performance-based admissions and no application process, the ME-EM is ideal for individuals with a broad range of undergraduate education and/or professional experience. Learn more about the ME-EM program at https://www.coursera.org/degrees/me-engineering-management-boulder.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Knowing the Audience and the Art Of Storytelling
The most effective way to influence an audience is by speaking WITH them (not at them), and preferably in person. The speaker draws power from words, voice, and non-verbals. However, before speaking with a group, it is essential to understand who the audience is; in that way, we may offer our thoughts in the most appropriate way.
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Speaking Skills: Your Ideas Brought To Life Through Voice Control, Eye Contact, Non-verbals, Facial Expressions.
Synergy and charisma are created when all of the elements of verbal communication are brought together at the same time .
Slide Preparation and Site Preparation
There are many readings and videos associated with the preparation of presentation slides. What is not found there is the ART of preparing slides. Also missing in those sources the the necessity of site preparation. We'll cover the science and the art here.
Final Preparation and Rehearsal
Rehearsal and final preparation, the MOST important steps in preparing to speak, are most often neglected.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Daniel Moorer, who are recognized for their work in engineering management
Examines oral communication, which is core skills for leadership
Develops vocal control, eye contact, and non-verbal communication, which are essential for effective communication
Suitable for individuals with a broad range of undergraduate education and/or professional experience
Teaches slide and presentation preparation, which are highly relevant to both industry and academia

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Speaking to a Technical Group with these activities:
Read 'Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die'
Gain insights into the principles of effective communication by reading this book, which explores the factors that make ideas memorable and persuasive.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of 'Made to Stick'.
  • Read the book and take notes on key takeaways.
  • Reflect on how the concepts in the book apply to your own communication style.
Form a Study Group with Classmates
Join or create a study group with classmates to share resources, discuss course material, and provide mutual support.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Reach out to classmates and propose forming a study group.
  • Set regular meeting times and establish ground rules for the group.
  • Actively participate in group discussions and contribute to the learning experience.
Review the Audience and Storytelling
Refresh your understanding of audience analysis and storytelling techniques to enhance your ability to connect with and persuade your audience.
Show steps
  • Read the course syllabus and review the section on audience analysis.
  • Identify the key audience for a recent presentation you gave or observed.
  • Brainstorm storytelling techniques that could be used to engage and persuade this audience.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Attend Toastmasters Meetings
Join a Toastmasters club to practice your speaking skills, receive constructive feedback, and connect with others interested in improving their communication abilities.
Browse courses on Public Speaking
Show steps
  • Find a local Toastmasters club and attend a meeting.
  • Participate in the meeting by giving speeches, evaluating others, or taking on leadership roles.
  • Network with other members and seek opportunities to practice your skills outside of meetings.
Practice Vocal Control and Eye Contact
Develop your vocal control and eye contact skills through guided exercises and tutorials to enhance your ability to deliver impactful and engaging presentations.
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials or videos on vocal control and eye contact.
  • Practice the exercises regularly, paying attention to your pitch, volume, and eye movements.
  • Record yourself practicing and review your performance to identify areas for improvement.
Deliver Short Impromptu Speeches
Challenge yourself with impromptu speeches to improve your ability to think on your feet, organize your thoughts, and deliver persuasive messages under pressure.
Browse courses on Public Speaking
Show steps
  • Set a timer for 2-3 minutes and give yourself a topic.
  • Prepare a brief outline of your speech while the timer is running.
  • Deliver your speech, focusing on clear delivery, eye contact, and body language.
  • Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement.
Enroll in a Public Speaking Workshop
Enhance your public speaking abilities through a structured workshop that provides expert instruction, practical exercises, and personalized feedback.
Browse courses on Communication
Show steps
  • Research and identify a reputable public speaking workshop.
  • Enroll in the workshop and actively participate in all activities.
  • Practice the techniques and strategies learned in the workshop.
Write and Deliver a Persuasive Speech
Craft and deliver a persuasive speech to demonstrate your ability to research, organize, and present a compelling argument.
Show steps
  • Choose a persuasive topic that you are passionate about.
  • Conduct research to gather evidence and support your argument.
  • Write a clear and concise speech outline.
  • Practice your delivery to ensure smoothness and effectiveness.
  • Deliver your speech with confidence and enthusiasm.

Career center

Learners who complete Speaking to a Technical Group will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, scientists, and software developers. Since Technical Writers must be able to explain complex technical concepts to a non-technical audience, excellent speaking skills are essential.
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and management of products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and marketing teams. Since Product Managers must present product specifications and updates to non-technical stakeholders, strong speaking skills are critical to success in this role.
Sales Manager
Sales Managers oversee the sales function within an organization. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including sales representatives, customers, and clients. Since Sales Managers are constantly interacting with potential and current customers, excellent speaking skills are essential.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources within an organization. This includes functions like hiring, training, and conflict management. Since HR interacts with all employees regardless of their position, the ability to speak effectively is essential.
Client Services Manager
Client Service Managers work to ensure that clients are satisfied with products or services and that they are meeting goals. They serve as the point of contact for clients, meaning that excellent communication skills are critical to success in this role.
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers plan and implement public relations campaigns. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including the media, investors, and community members. Since Public Relations Managers are constantly representing the organization, excellent speaking skills are essential.
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Managers plan and implement training and development programs. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including employees, managers, and executives. Since Training and Development Managers are constantly working to improve the skills and knowledge of employees, excellent speaking skills are essential.
Media Relations Manager
Media Relations Managers are responsible for managing the flow of information between an organization and the media. They plan and implement media relations campaigns, and are responsible for speaking with members of the press. Since they are constantly representing the organization, excellent speaking skills are essential.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including team members, clients, and vendors. The ability to speak with a technical group is essential to success in this role, especially when working with team members who may have different technical backgrounds.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers plan, coordinate, and implement marketing strategies. They may work with a technical team to improve the message of the strategy to business leaders and clients of the organization. Knowing the audience of the strategy is essential to the success of a Marketing Manager.
Event Planner
Event Planners organize and coordinate every aspect of events from conferences to festivals and everything in between. The ability to speak with a technical group is essential to success in this role, especially when working with outside vendors.
Business Consultant
Business Consultants study the current business practices of an organization and assist in improving processes across the board. An impressive command of communication is required for assessing and addressing a wide range of business functions in order to improve strategy and operations across the board.
Editor
Editors manage the creation and revision of written, audio, or visual content. In many cases, they work with individuals who may not be native speakers of the language, so knowing the audience and speaking with them directly is critical to the success of an Editor.
Account Manager
Account Managers advise and consult with clients in diverse settings such as banks, healthcare, insurance, and more. They build lasting relationships with clients to drive revenue while increasing customer satisfaction. Great communication skills are critical to success in this role. Coursework on speaking directly to technical groups relates to much of the daily work of an Account Manager.
Political Consultant
Political Consultants help candidates and organizations win elections. They develop and implement campaign strategies, and may be responsible for speaking on behalf of the candidate or organization. Knowing the audience and speaking directly to them is critical to success in this role.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Speaking to a Technical Group.
Provides practical advice on how to communicate effectively in both personal and professional settings. It covers topics such as choosing the right words, using body language, and handling difficult conversations.
Provides a comprehensive guide to giving presentations, covering topics such as planning, preparing, and delivering your presentation. It also includes tips on dealing with nerves and handling difficult questions.
Provides a step-by-step guide to creating effective presentation slides. It covers topics such as choosing the right visuals, using fonts and colors, and organizing your content.
Provides practical advice on how to use data to tell stories that are both engaging and informative. It covers topics such as finding the right data, organizing your story, and creating visuals that resonate with your audience.
Provides practical advice on how to develop your charisma and become more influential. It covers topics such as building confidence, making eye contact, and using body language.
Provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and using body language. It covers topics such as reading body language, using body language to communicate effectively, and using body language to build rapport.
Provides practical advice on how to communicate effectively in both personal and professional settings. It covers topics such as making conversation, building relationships, and resolving conflict.
Provides practical advice on how to become more effective in both your personal and professional life. It covers topics such as setting goals, managing your time, and building relationships.
Provides insights into the strengths and challenges of being an introvert. It covers topics such as the importance of solitude, the power of listening, and the ways to make the most of your introverted personality.
Provides practical advice for introverts on how to navigate the challenges of an extroverted world. It covers topics such as setting boundaries, managing your energy, and finding your strengths.

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