Description:
Whether leading a clinical team, presenting research, mentoring learners, collaborating across departments, or navigating difficult conversations, communication remains one of the most important skills faculty members can develop. Yet influence is about more than delivering information—it is about building trust, inspiring confidence, and creating meaningful connections.

In this interactive 90-minute workshop, Emmy Award-winning journalist, communication strategist, and UNC Health leader Sharon Delaney McCloud will share practical tools to strengthen communication presence and increase leadership influence. Participants will explore the three dimensions of effective communication—Composure, Connection, and Command—and learn how to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and credibility in high-stakes professional environments.

Through self-assessment, discussion, and real-world application, attendees will gain actionable strategies to navigate difficult conversations, project executive presence, build stronger relationships, and communicate in ways that foster trust and engagement.


Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Identify the key elements of communication presence and assess their own strengths and opportunities across Composure, Connection, and Command.
Apply strategies for maintaining composure under pressure, including techniques for managing emotions, responding thoughtfully, and navigating difficult conversations.
Strengthen professional relationships and influence by leveraging the principles of warmth and competence to build trust, credibility, and engagement.
Communicate with greater confidence and clarity through intentional use of verbal and nonverbal communication techniques that enhance leadership presence.
Develop a personal action plan to elevate their communication effectiveness in clinical, educational, research, and leadership settings.