Connect & Engage: Communication Skills in Diverse Contexts (in Person)

Communication skills are essential for your professional growth — from making small talk at a lab or departmental meeting to presenting your research engagingly when applying to a new job. In this intensive program, you'll be invited to learn strategies and skills to help you communicate clearly in a variety of contexts and be given time and structured support to apply and "play" with these skills in a friendly atmosphere. A light breakfast (including coffee) and full lunch will be provided. If you have any issues registering, please reach out to victoria.hallinan@yale.edu. 

Audience: Postdocs and graduate students.

The program will consist of two main workshops and before and after each, structured opportunities to reflect, apply and practice.  

Workshop 1: Presenting Engagingly: Crafting Your Research Story, Visuals, and Stage Presence 

Does the idea of public speaking make you nervous? Do you worry about holding your 

audience's attention while talking about your research? Solid presentation skills will serve 

you well in any career path, but developing those skills can be challenging. This workshop 

synthesizes the three components of a memorable presentation, from crafting a compelling 

story of your research, to creating impactful visuals, and finally to finding ways to feel 

comfortable in the spotlight while being yourself. Whether you are looking to fine-tune your 

job talk, polish your conference materials, or nail your departmental colloquium 

presentation, this workshop will get you well on your way! 

Workshop 2: Small Talk is a Big Deal  

Small talk may seem informal, but it plays an important role in building rapport and  

professional connections. Whether you are considering a career in academia or exploring  

opportunities beyond the academy, small talk can help you navigate conferences,  

networking events, job interviews, and conversations with colleagues and other  

professionals. Knowing how to ask thoughtful questions, show genuine interest, and keep  

a conversation going can help you build meaningful connections and leave a positive  

impression. 

Join us for this interactive, in-person workshop to learn practical strategies for starting and  

sustaining conversations and to practice these skills in a supportive environment. Build  

confidence and strengthen your oral communication skills in ways that can support you  

throughout your academic and professional career – wherever it takes you.