Join fellow WAFDO members and participate in a webinar titled Talking to Decision Makers: What to Say and How to Say it
10:00 – 11:30 am, PT on either Tuesday, May 11, or May 25, 2021.
As a government employee, you are required to communicate clearly and effectively. Working under time constraints, you must be able to present the relevant issues, the challenges of a situation, and the proposed next steps. During this high-energy, interactive session, the instructors will demonstrate an approach to prepare and deliver an explanation of an issue in 30 seconds. They will explain how to structure a talk using the “What”, “So What ”, “Now What” pattern.
They will also discuss how to respond to a decision maker’s probing questions. After the presentation, you will be paired with two other participants and be provided the opportunity to apply the concepts using your webcam and the audio function on your computer.
At the conclusion of the session, you will be able to:
- Identify the traits that add to and detract from credibility.
- Gain insight into ways to keep a decision-maker engaged.
- Create and deliver a succinct and substantive description of an issue and the proposed next steps.
Thoughts and Reactions of Other Regulators Who Participated in the Session:
What I enjoyed most is how relevant this workshop was. It addressed the day-to-day issues that I encounter. I’m grateful for the “What, So What, Now What” template. I’m definitely printing it out and hanging it in a visible spot.
The workshop gave us various tools to utilize in making short but effective speeches, which I can also practice with other members of my organization without difficulties.
I enjoyed using the template and getting the opportunity to practice the technique in a small breakout room with two other people
I appreciated receiving feedback on my talk. I met new people and learned new skills. This was well worth my time.
About Your Presenters
Nancy Singer is an Assistant Professor at George Washington University. She teaches good communication skills and leadership to FDA employees through ORA University and the FDA Staff Colleges. She began her career as a federal prosecutor doing litigation for FDA.
Cynthia Culmo is the Principal Consultant at CC Consulting. She has held corporate roles in medical products organizations, including medical devices, biologics, and pharmaceuticals. During her career, she served as the Director for Drugs and Medical Devices for the State of Texas.