Think Clearly, Communicate Smartly (Deliver Value)
One of the most rewarding parts of my work in Brussels is training young professionals who are just starting their careers in public affairs and policy. They arrive here with ambition and a strong sense of purpose but what they often need first are some tools to help them think clearly, communicate with impact and navigate the complexity of public affairs. I like to tell myself that older people like me (;0) are often a good source of advice and guidance. Let me believe that.
I have been running communications and management workshops with a bunch of consultancies, trade associations and NGOs that focus on developing these core skills. We try not to spend too much time on theoretical models. Instead we practise. We challenge assumptions. We build confidence. And we help participants move from passive rule takers to active contributors.
What makes this training different is the emphasis on thinking before speaking. We explore how to analyse a problem, structure a briefing and adapt it to different audiences: senior officials, customers, members, team buddies, but not your granny (she isn’t interested). We also work on presentation skills, vocal delivery and managing the room, because how you say something is just as important as what you say.
One of the most powerful shifts I see is when participants realise they do not need to have all the answers all the time. They need to ask better questions, listen actively and frame their ideas in a way that invites collaboration. That’s when the real learning begins.
We also spend time on self-management. In Brussels, where deadlines are tight and expectations are high, knowing how to organise your work, seek input when needed and take ownership of your role is pretty useful.
If you are working with junior consultants, policy officers or new recruits and want to build their capacity to think strategically and communicate effectively, I can share ideas. This kind of training is an investment in skills. It’s also an investment in the future of your organisation.
So far what I’ve seen, the future looks promising.
