Communication Skills Basics (14h)

This training is designed for doctoral postdoctoral researchers who want to strengthen their communication skills and assertiveness. The program focuses on:

• Day 1: Assertive, solution-focused communication in one-on-one interactions. You will learn to approach delicate topics constructively, make conscious choices in your responses, and connect before influencing. Key skills include active listening, assertiveness, giving and receiving feedback, saying “no,” and delivering difficult messages.
• Day 2: Constructive collaboration in teams. You will explore the building blocks of effective teamwork, learn to clarify mutual expectations, and practice open communication in research groups, project teams, and cross-group collaborations. The training addresses how to proactively shape team agreements and navigate complex group dynamics.
• Throughout the program, there is explicit attention to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, helping you develop the assertiveness needed to create a healthy, inclusive research environment.

By the end of this training, you will be able to:

• Approach problems and sensitive topics in a solution-oriented way, focusing on what you want to achieve and the needs of others.
• Make conscious choices in your interactions, rather than reacting on autopilot.
• Build connection through active listening before attempting to influence others.
• Communicate assertively and respectfully, including giving and receiving feedback.
• Say “no” and deliver difficult news clearly and empathetically.
• Clarify shared goals, roles, and expectations with team members.
• Take initiative in creating open communication and agreements in your team.
• Identify opportunities for improvement in your work context and formulate concrete action plans.
• Apply communication and collaboration skills in diverse, inclusive, and sustainable research environments.

Format: 

• Two interactive modules, which can be scheduled consecutively or with a break in between to allow for practice and reflection.
• Personal learning logbook: Participants document their questions, insights, and action points throughout the course.
• Action planning: At the end, you will develop a concrete, realistic action plan to implement your new skills in your daily work.
• Peer support: The program encourages ongoing peer coaching and intervision after the training, fostering a supportive learning community.

Preparatory work:

Participants will be invited to complete a quick questionnaire about their learning goals and what they would like to get out of this experience.

Course dates and location:

Trainer:

TBC (True Colours)

Language: 

English

Docop-points: 

1,4 points

Registration: 

Via Sisa Self Service. Log in with your student account. Registration is possible as from 6 January 2026 and after you've been (re-)enrolled as a PhD student for 2025-2026.