Interpersonal Skills Workshop

Due to the social distancing guidelines, this instructor-led workshop will be adapted for an online learning environment. In recognition of the circumstances of so many people in this time, we have expanded our scholarship opportunities. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Workshop Description

The methods and tools of EP’s Reflective Structured Dialogue approach can be used in many areas of life outside of formal dialogues, from one-on-one conversations to informal gatherings. 

With the right EP tools, even the most challenging conversations across differences can lead to stronger relationships, deeper mutual understanding, and a renewed sense of trust. They can help you live and work better together in community.

In this workshop, participants will learn to foster new cycles of communication in interpersonal conversations. They will be able to interrupt stuck patterns, model healthier communication norms, and foster a better culture of communication in their community or institution. 

For those who have trained with EP before, this workshop will teach new applications of the structures, tools, and techniques of the Reflective Structured Dialogue framework.

Objectives:

• To identify some patterns that can make communication difficult
• To gain a basic understanding of EP's framework for more constructive conversations
• To learn and practice tools for listening, inquiry, and speaking that interrupt dysfunctional patterns and support more constructive conversations

As a result of this workshop, you will be equipped to:

• Envision what a better conversation about tough issues might look like;
• Begin to break destructive interpersonal communication habits;
• Encourage conversations that allow people to participate fully, listen actively, and empathize across differences.

Who might participate:

• Civic leaders and advocates
• Educators and administrators
• Corporate and nonprofit managers
• Human resources and organizational development professionals
• Clergy and lay religious leaders
• Therapists or social workers
• Alternative dispute resolution professionals

Want an introduction to EP's Reflective Structured Dialogue framework? Register for Intro to Dialogue Across Differences, our best point of entry for those who want to change your community culture.

Looking for hands-on facilitation skills and tools? Consider registering for Basic EP Training for Facilitators or Facilitation Training for Community and Faith Leaders.

Already an experienced facilitator who’s familiar with EP’s approach? Take a look at our Advanced Facilitation Skills workshop.

For more learning opportunities, please refer to EP workshop calendar.

Accreditation and Continuing Education

Essential Partners provides a certificate upon completion of the workshop that can be used to support a request for professional development credits.

Scholarships

Essential Partners provides a limited number of partial or full scholarships for each workshop it hosts. A member of the staff will inform applicants of their decisions six weeks prior to the workshop date; applicants will confirm their acceptance by registering online. Scholarships are granted based on two criteria: financial need; and  potential for impact on a community level.

Fill out this form to apply for a scholarship.

Cancellation Policies

If you must cancel, please do so as far in advance as possible. Cancellations are subject to a $25 administration fee plus an additional $25 to process credit card refunds (if you paid by credit card). To receive any refund your cancellation must be made at least 2 weeks before the course date. Essential Partners is under no obligation to offer any refund or credit if you cancel within two weeks of a workshop. If you need to cancel due to a medical emergency, your local weather conditions, or any other reason please call Sara Ostrovitz at (617) 923-1216 ext. 10.

In some instances, Essential Partners must cancel a workshop due to low enrollment, faculty illness, or weather. In the unlikely event that we have to cancel a workshop due to low enrollment, we will give you at least 2 weeks notice. If we cancel due to faculty illness or severe weather, we will contact you as far in advance as possible. If there is a severe storm warning in the area of the workshop venue, we will cancel by 4:00 pm the day before.

If the workshop is canceled, Essential Partners will issue you a full refund of the registration fee, with no additional administration fees. Essential Partners cannot be responsible for travel losses.

For more information, please contact us at training@whatisessential.org or 617-923-1216 ext. 10.