Program Overview
Every day, professionals navigate conversations that determine project outcomes, relationship quality, and career trajectories. Yet most of us learn communication skills haphazardly—through trial and error, observation, and occasional feedback. We wing difficult conversations, hope our message lands with senior leaders, and avoid performance discussions until they become urgent. This approach leaves too much to chance.
Professional Communication is a comprehensive training program that transforms how you approach the conversations that matter most. Whether you’re managing up to influence senior leadership, navigating conflict with a difficult colleague, or conducting performance conversations that actually change behavior, this program provides the frameworks, language, and confidence to communicate with strategic intent.
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We believe in the power of collaboration. By partnering with OSI, you’ll receive customized solutions tailored to your unique business needs. From initial consultation to implementation and evaluation, we’re with you every step of the way.
Discover how our programs can transform your organization and unlock new opportunities for growth.
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Benefits and Outcomes
Across three core modules—Managing Up, Navigating Difficult Conversations, and Productive Performance Conversations—participants develop skills applicable in every role, at every career stage:
Managing Up: Influence Without Authority
Learn to communicate strategically with supervisors, executives, and senior stakeholders. Discover how to:
- Present recommendations that align with leadership priorities
- Build credibility and trust with decision-makers
- Advocate for resources, support, and strategic direction
- Navigate organizational politics with integrity
- Deliver unwelcome news while maintaining relationships
- Position yourself as a strategic partner, not just a task executor
Navigating Difficult Conversations: Turn Conflict into Collaboration
Develop the courage and capability to address tensions before they escalate. Master techniques to:
- Identify when avoidance costs more than engagement
- Prepare emotionally and strategically for high-stakes discussions
- Use language that reduces defensiveness and opens dialogue
- Address behavior and impact without attacking character
- Find common ground when positions seem irreconcilable
- Repair relationships damaged by conflict or misunderstanding
Productive Performance Conversations: Feedback That Drives Growth
Transform performance discussions from dreaded obligations into powerful development opportunities. Learn to:
- Deliver feedback that’s specific, actionable, and motivating
- Balance accountability with empathy and support
- Conduct performance reviews that strengthen rather than damage relationships
- Set clear expectations and measure progress effectively
- Address underperformance with clarity and compassion
- Recognize and amplify strengths to maximize contribution
Customization and Implementation
Flexible Delivery Options:
- Full Program (3 modules): Comprehensive skill development across all communication contexts
- Single Module Focus: Deep dive into one area based on organizational priorities
- Leadership Track: Advanced applications for managers and executives
- Individual Contributor Track: Influence and navigation skills for non-managers
- Custom Combination: Mix modules and depth based on your team’s specific needs
Available Formats:
- Half-Day Workshops (per module or combined overview)
- Full-Day Intensive (all three modules with practice time)
- Multi-Session Series (weekly sessions with application homework)
- Virtual or In-Person Delivery
- Executive Coaching (one-on-one skill development)
Why Choose This Program
This isn’t generic communication training filled with common-sense advice you already know. This is strategic communication skill-building for the complex, nuanced, high-stakes conversations that determine whether you—and your organization—succeed.
Participants gain immediately applicable skills related to strategic message design, emotional intelligence, influencing without authority, constructive conflict skills, feedback mastery, active listening, and psychological safety creation. Organizational outcomes include improved leadership effectiveness, reduced conflict costs, enhanced cross-functional collaboration, stronger upward communication flow, improved culture, better talent retention, faster onboarding and development, reduced passive-aggressive behavior, and enhanced organizational trust.