What sets apart the most credible, trusted, and influential members of an IT team from the rest? What habits and behaviors do they exhibit that result in being treated with respect, while other team members of equal technical skill on the same team are virtually ignored? While technologists are often analytical and data-driven in our work, we are rarely systematic about interpersonal communication and soft skills. This session will teach you how to bridge those gaps.

One of the most fundamental practices among successful data professionals is self-awareness. We will help, through personality profiles like DISC, MTBI, and StrengthFinder, to help reveal your own preferences, strengths, and weaknesses. With that foundation, we move to best practices in communication, such as listening and questioning skills. Finally, we cover a variety of difficult conversations and common conflicts and the communication techniques that help navigate those situations successfully.

These lessons, in turn, build your confidence and influence in interpersonal situations, while enabling you to personally achieve new heights of productivity and greater personal effectiveness.