Maximizing Impact
Communications Mastery Toolbox
Got a brilliant tech idea but struggling to pitch it to a non-technical audience? Trying to uncover the compelling story behind your brand but not sure where to begin?
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You have powerful ideas and innovations. I’m here to help you tell your story with clarity and impact.
I teach a full-day workshop on maximizing impact through strategic communications, story craft, and writing skills with a focus on professionals who work in government, defense, high tech, and engineering.
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​The four modules outlined below are designed for a customizable workshop, tailored to meet your team’s specific needs. Give me a holler to learn more.
Module 1
The Ultimate Communications Strategy Primer
If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it…did it make the impact you intended? We’ll explore common communications challenges, solutions for overcoming these challenges, and best practices simplified for setting up a communications strategy with a specific focus on hi tech, engineering, defense, and government.
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The primary role of communications (general and industry-specific)
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Common challenges in expert-driven environments and practical solutions
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Understanding the basic structure of a communications strategy
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Overcoming the curse of knowledge when communicating technical or complex policy concepts
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Intro to the “De-Jargonizer”
Module 2
Craft a Story Like a Whiz
Storytelling is crucial in today’s communication landscape because it makes intricate information more accessible, memorable, and persuasive. From speeches to articles to podcast, storytelling enables you to connect emotionally, simplify complexity, and drive action.
Participants will learn practical tips of the craft, including concrete applications and story examples ranging from cybersecurity to veterans affairs.
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Foundational components and structural guidance for building a compelling story
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Cognitive techniques to ignite curiosity and hold attention
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How to capitalize on your organization’s origin story, along with other popular story types
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Dissection of real-world examples (tech focus vs. human focus stories)
Module 3
How to Write for Busy Readers
In an age of information overload, there are specific writing techniques that keep busy readers reading. Our focus will be on smart brevity, a formula developed by journalists to deliver information in a concise format with maximum impact on readers.
In addition to journalists, we will also discuss tricks of the trade from hi-tech marketing writers, including how to condense technical information, address customer pain points early on, and prioritize technology benefits over features.
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Foundations of smart brevity
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Style, structure, and visual appeal
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Overcoming writer’s block
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How to effectively edit your own work
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Writing in the age of AI
* This module concludes with a 45-minute video script writing group exercise that allows participants to incorporate lessons learned
Module 4
Unlocking the Power of Visuals
We will explore practical strategies to enhance the design of presentations, ensuring they engage your audience, clarify insights, and effectively communicate your message through purposeful data storytelling.
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The session will also cover best design practices and how to present complex data in a visually compelling, easily readable format. Participants will learn how to select most effective visuals for different types of data and translate technical information into clear leadership-ready language for decision-makers and non-technical stakeholders.
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Weaving the science of story into data delivery
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Translating technical data into leadership language, including communicating data to decision-makers
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Best practices for visual design and data presentation
