Effective Communication for Today’s Leader from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Topic 1. Human communication levels

In the first topic of this course, you will study the concept of human communication, its importance in people’s lives, and its application to the environments we move in: family, professional, and social. At the same time, you will learn about communication levels, which allow both the sender and the receiver to identify the level we are communicating in order to establish a connection between both parties.

Topic 2. Assertive communication

This week will cover information on assertive communication, the ability to communicate with messages that are delivered clearly, firmly, directly, and respectfully. The goal is for you to learn about assertiveness, the first communication skill that is the foundation of dialogue, so you can put it into practice. You will also learn a technique that is easy to use, that you can use immediately to deliver assertive messages.

Topic 3. Empathetic listening

This week you will learn essential aspects of the second interpersonal communication skill: empathetic listening. One of the most frequent errors when we communicate in work environments is to only pay attention to the technical aspects of the conversation. In other words, we tend to ignore the emotional state or mood of the other person, and this can damage our interpersonal relationship.

Topic 4. Performance feedback

During this last week of the course, you’ll learn more about the third interpersonal communication skill: performance feedback. This is a skill that, overall, allows us to respond to messages from other people; and specifically, can be used as a tool to improve performance in sessions to establish goals and evaluate performance. In this way, effective leaders increase their ability to direct, guide, teach, and motivate collaborators by correctly using feedback.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Helps learners enhance interpersonal communication skills to improve professional environments and outcomes

Suitable for individuals seeking to refine their communication skills in management and leadership roles

Provides foundational understanding of human communication levels, enabling learners to adapt to different communication contexts

Incorporates techniques for assertive communication, empathetic listening, and performance feedback, which are essential skills in various professional settings

Taught by Carlos Alberto Tena Sánchez, who is recognized for their expertise in interpersonal and group communication

Learners may need to apply the skills in real-world situations to fully grasp their application and effectiveness

Reviews summary

Mixed review communication course

Learners say this course, which teaches the value of communication, gets mixed reviews. Many students enjoy this course's informative content and clear, easy-to-follow nature, but others criticize the course for its repetitiveness, poor English translations, and use of Spanish language instruction without proper notice to non-Spanish speaking students.

Course is clear and easy to follow.

"Easy to follow course in the value of communication."

"Clear pdfs, basic but essential course."

Course material is repetitive.

"Repetitive questions and not easy to follow the videos in Spanish even though some of them have subtitles."

"Some questions were asked multiple times (the same way), yet at different answers."

Some course content is not in English.

"The language of teaching was in Spanish and that won't work for me."

"Repetitive questions and not easy to follow the videos in Spanish even though some of them have subtitles."

"Didn't say it's not in English."

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 Effective Communication for Today’s Leader with these activities:

Review foundational communication skills

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Prepare for this course by reviewing essential communication concepts, helping to strengthen your baseline understanding and set you up for success.

Browse courses on Interpersonal Communication

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Read and analyze introductory materials on interpersonal communication, including its importance and various types.
Take notes and create concept maps to organize your understanding of key terms and concepts.
Reflect on your own communication style and identify areas for improvement.

Watch online tutorials on specific communication topics

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Expand your knowledge and skills by exploring online resources that delve into specialized areas of interpersonal communication, allowing you to deepen your understanding of specific concepts.

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Identify specific communication topics you want to enhance.
Search for and select high-quality online tutorials from reputable sources.
Watch and actively engage with the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the techniques demonstrated.
Implement the new skills and strategies in your own communication interactions.

Read 'Interpersonal Communication: A Pocket Guide' by Jeffrey A. Hall

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Supplement your learning by reading a comprehensive guide on interpersonal communication, gaining valuable insights and practical tips from an expert in the field.

View Forgiveness After Infidelity: A Step-by-Step... on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key ideas and concepts.
Identify sections and chapters that align with the course topics and focus on understanding those parts in depth.
Apply the concepts you learn to real-life situations and reflect on how they improve your interactions.

Five other activities

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Join a study group for collaborative learning

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Engage with fellow learners to discuss course materials, share insights, and provide support, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

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Connect with classmates or join existing study groups.
Set regular meeting times and establish a study schedule.
Take turns leading discussions, presenting summaries, and facilitating group activities.
Actively listen to others' perspectives and contribute to a respectful and constructive learning atmosphere.

Participate in role-playing exercises to practice communication skills

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Enhance your communication abilities by engaging in simulations of real-world interactions, allowing you to apply course concepts and receive constructive feedback.

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Prepare for role-playing exercises by researching different scenarios and communication styles.
Actively participate in role-playing exercises, taking on different roles and practicing effective communication techniques.
Seek and provide constructive feedback to enhance your own and others' communication skills.

Engage in volunteer opportunities that involve interpersonal communication

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Apply your communication skills in practical settings by volunteering in organizations, enhancing your empathy, cultural sensitivity, and ability to connect with diverse individuals.

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Identify volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and communication goals.
Attend training sessions and familiarize yourself with the organization's mission and communication protocols.
Engage in active listening, provide support, and build rapport with clients, colleagues, or community members.
Reflect on your experiences and how they contribute to your personal and professional development.

Develop a communication plan for a specific scenario

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Apply your understanding of interpersonal communication by creating a practical plan that addresses a real-world communication challenge, strengthening your problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.

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Identify a specific communication challenge or scenario that requires a plan.
Analyze the audience, goals, and context of the communication.
Develop a strategy and outline the key messages and action steps.
Create a draft of the communication plan and seek feedback from others.
Refine and finalize the communication plan based on feedback.

Develop a multimedia presentation on effective interpersonal communication

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Synthesize your learning by creating a comprehensive presentation that showcases your understanding of key communication principles, providing a valuable resource for your own reference and sharing with others.

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Research and gather information on various aspects of effective interpersonal communication.
Organize and structure the content into a logical and engaging narrative.
Select and utilize visuals, videos, and other multimedia elements to enhance the presentation.
Practice delivering the presentation to receive feedback and make improvements.
Share the final presentation with peers or professionals for their insights.

Career center

Learners who complete Effective Communication for Today’s Leader will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create instruction manuals, reference guides, and other supporting documents that explain complex technical information. This course may be helpful in pursuing a career as a Technical Writer. It emphasizes the importance of clear and concise communication, including using assertive communication and empathetic listening.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of an organization or individual. This course may prove useful in starting or advancing a career as a Public Relations Specialist. It offers insights into effective communication, including fostering honest dialogue and delivering messages assertively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Social Media Manager

Social Media Managers manage social media accounts for businesses and organizations. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Social Media Manager. It provides insights into effective communication techniques that build stronger relationships with clients and improve reputation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Media Manager

Speechwriter

Speechwriters craft speeches and presentations for public figures. This course may be helpful in starting or advancing a career as a Speechwriter. It helps build a foundation in communication skills, including assertive communication and delivering messages empathetically. Coursework focuses on developing speechwriting skills and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speechwriter

Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers plan and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Marketing Manager. It provides insights into how communication builds stronger relationships with clients and improves reputation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Communications Specialist

Communications Specialists write, edit, publish, and distribute content for a company. This course may be useful in starting or advancing a career as a Communications Specialist. It provides a foundation in communication skills, including building relationships, fostering honest dialogue, and providing helpful feedback to coworkers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Communications Specialist

Media Relations Specialist

Media Relations Specialists build and maintain relationships with members of the media. This course may be useful in starting or advancing a career as a Media Relations Specialist. It provides a foundation in communication skills, including establishing honest dialogue and delivering messages assertively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Media Relations Specialist

Communications Manager

Communications Managers help businesses communicate with the public through media and digital channels. This course may be helpful to someone considering starting or pursuing a career as a Communications Manager. This course provides learners with insights into effective communication techniques that build stronger relationships with clients and improve reputation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Communications Manager

Consultant

Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations on a variety of topics. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Consultant. It provides insights into effective communication, including building relationships and fostering honest dialogue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Sales Manager

Sales Managers lead and motivate sales teams to achieve revenue goals. This course may be useful in pursuing a career as a Sales Manager. It helps build a foundation in communication skills, including fostering honest dialogue and providing helpful feedback to coworkers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and make recommendations for improvement. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Business Analyst. It provides a foundation in communication, including building relationships and delivering messages assertively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Training and Development Manager

Training and Development Managers plan and implement training programs for employees. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Training and Development Manager. It provides insights into effective communication, including fostering honest dialogue and delivering messages assertively.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers oversee human resources operations and ensure employee satisfaction. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as a Human Resources Manager. It provides insights into effective communication, including fostering honest dialogue and delivering messages assertively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Event Planner

Event Planners organize and coordinate events such as conferences, weddings, and parties. This course may be helpful in starting or pursuing a career as an Event Planner. It provides a foundation in communication, including building relationships and delivering messages assertively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Event Planner

Customer Service Manager

Customer Service Managers oversee customer service operations and ensure customer satisfaction. This course may be helpful in pursuing a career as a Customer Service Manager. It helps build a foundation in communication skills, including fostering honest dialogue and providing helpful feedback to coworkers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Customer Service Manager