Speaking up in front of others requires a certain amount of courage, because it asks us as individuals to step out of our comfort zone into a public sphere, in which we can be scrutinised and challenged. Some people find it easier than others to speak up in front of a group. However, we can all learn to speak publicly, and with practice, we have the opportunity to become familiar with the concept and enhance our participation in groups, at work and in society.

This training gives delegates the opportunity to explore the barriers that prevent people from speaking up and introduces practical strategies to encourage active participation in meetings and discussions. With regular practice, and support of others, these strategies will help delegates learn to speak up without feeling too self-conscious or overwhelmed.

Key benefits of attending this course

Key benefits to the individual of developing skills to speak up:

• An opportunity to develop an existing life skill
• Increases ability to influence decision-making
• Reduces frustration as you are more confident in expressing opinions and feelings
• Feel valued as your contribution matters; boosts self-esteem
• Increases confidence to challenge commonly held views and ability to handle difficult situations
• With practice, it reduces anxiety/panic and fear
• Questioning enhances learning, understanding and skills development

Key benefits to the organisation when people feel safe to speak up:

• Encourages active participation in meetings to ensure everyone’s opinions are heard and valued
• Focuses on developing an environment of trust/psychological safety
• Sharing of ideas improves performance and growth and enhances creativity
• Problems are resolved more quickly and effectively if everyone feels safe to speak up
• Ensures fairness, transparency and inclusion in decision-making
• Demonstrates that the organisation has an open-minded culture that fosters discussion and debate