In October, the SU Language Centre’s Communication Lab will present Conversations to encourage behavioural change in the workplace, a certificate of competence short course that focuses on what can happen in the conversation itself.
Image by The Jopwell Collection.
Finding reasons to move forward
“The course introduces participants to motivational interviewing, an evidence-based communication approach that helps people explore their mixed feelings about change. Instead of trying to win an argument or simply repeating what someone ought to do, the conversation partner learns techniques that can help the person identify their own reasons for moving forward,” prof Carel Jansen, facilitator of the course, explains.
Participants will gain practical experience in interview techniques aimed at strengthening change readiness and helping people work through ambivalence. These skills can be particularly valuable when organisational change affects employees’ roles, routines or working relationships.
The course is intended especially for managers and human resources officers who regularly communicate with employees about workplace change. “However, its value extends beyond formal change-management processes,” says Prof Carel.
“The same techniques can be used in other professional settings where people need support in reconsidering established behaviour. They may also be useful in conversations with friends or family members.”
Presenter and course details
Prof Carel Jansen is an emeritus professor in communication and information studies at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands and a research fellow at the SU Language Centre. His academic work and teaching bring together communication research and the practical challenges people encounter when communicating about decisions, behaviour and change, making him an ideal facilitator for a course like this.
The deadline for applications is 17 September, with the course kicking off with an online session on 8 October from 9am to 11am, followed by two in-person sessions on 15 and 22 October from 9am to 12pm in Stellenbosch. The sessions are complemented by self-directed online learning, including readings, activities, quizzes and assignments.
The course fee is R4,100 per participant, including course materials, assessments, presenter-led sessions and access to the online learning platforms. Places are limited to support meaningful participation and practical learning.
Prospective participants can apply through the course page or contact Michelle Pieters at az.ca.nus@pellehcim or 021 808 2812 for more information.
