Communicate and Connect with Purpose!
Whether in the classroom, in a social gathering or in an interview - effective communication has the power to build rapport and open doors. From high school to collegiate to professional environments, it is crucial that your communication skills enhance your intended outcomes.
Impact starts by knowing what the purpose of your message is and how to authentically connect with your audience. Academic Co-Directors of the HEC Paris Youth Program “High Impact Communication”, Elyse Michaels-Berger and Jessica Honan, have been committed to creating opportunities for life-changing understandings to be shared with younger, yet equally eager, populations. Their expertise, combined with their genuine interest in supporting the voices of youth, has resulted in an established 20-hour online certificate program that helps high school students polish their communication skills and gain the confidence needed to positively present ideas, contribute to important conversations and stand out in highly competitive scenarios.
Pauline Chaudet-Pacquement, a former participant, attests to the added value of the course for her future: “The program delivers true excellence in communication skills thanks to the teachers and guest speakers who share their knowledge and personal experience. It will surely be a major asset for both my professional and personal life and will help me to realize my dreams.” Exposure to various perspectives, exchanging about realistic situations and receiving meaningful feedback all contribute to the rich learning environment and innate quality of the experience. Pauline adds, “This multicultural course is also an amazing opportunity to share ideas and thoughts with other students coming from all over the world.”
Since the pandemic, many aspects of our lives have shifted from in-person to online formats. Therefore, in order to prepare students for ever-evolving environments, a special emphasis is placed on how to establish quality connection through technology channels while maintaining a personal, polished and professional approach. Yiwen MAI, another former participant, appreciated the insider insights, stating: “The program helps us to master the way we communicate. It includes a wide range of practical techniques and theories, teaching us how to connect with others and conduct a meaningful conversation.”
Jessica Honan creates a climate of trust and respect within her virtual classroom, which encourages students to reflect upon and actively apply newly learned techniques with confidence. Elise Ramel shared her enthusiasm at how the program was taught: “I loved the small group work that we did because it not only allowed me to get to know people better but also to practice in a much more intimate space where I could express myself without prejudice or fear.”
In an era where we are constantly communicating, active listening and considering the intended impact before connecting is key. How do you currently engage with your audience when you are speaking? How comfortable are you navigating difficult conversations? How does your body language support your message? What can you do today to enhance your communication skills to positively shape your future? These are just a few questions that are examined, exchanged and explored in this HEC Paris “High Impact Communication” program.
It’s never too early to make an impact. Becoming a clearer and more effective communicator is possible. At HEC Paris, proven tools, techniques and tips are shared; and, we look forward to welcoming motivated and driven youth from all over the world to connect.