Macquarie University
Storytelling and influencing: Communicate with impact
Macquarie University

Storytelling and influencing: Communicate with impact

Associate Professor Lawrence Ang
Arabella MacPherson

Instructors: Associate Professor Lawrence Ang

146,830 already enrolled

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(2,403 reviews)

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
98%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(2,403 reviews)

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
98%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • Evaluate theories of persuasive communication to decode key components

  • Apply communication strategies to build rapport and overcome resistance

  • Interpret audience motivation to influence thinking and gain support

  • Develop impactful storytelling techniques for diverse contexts

Details to know

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Assessments

12 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Influencing: Storytelling, Change Management and Governance Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
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There are 6 modules in this course

A solid understanding of your audience is central to persuasive communications. In this module, you will learn the basic theory of persuasive communication, including models of information processing, motivational appeals, message acceptance, and effective human interactions. To maximize your learning, actively reflect on how these theories apply to your own communication experiences. This foundational knowledge is key to mastering advanced influencing techniques later in the course.

What's included

6 videos3 readings2 assignments

Effective storytelling begins with persuasive content and a dramatic narrative. In Week 2, you will learn to apply core storytelling principles: shaping compelling beginnings, building engaging middles, and crafting powerful endings. Discover how to find your winning idea, infuse it with emotion, and use metaphors for quick connection. To succeed, actively analyze examples and practice structuring your own narratives. This module is foundational for developing your overall communication and influencing skills.

What's included

4 videos2 readings2 assignments

Developing rapport and trust is crucial for persuasive communication and all supportive human interactions. This module, Week 3, will teach you to speak authentically and quickly build and maintain rapport using verbal and non-verbal cues, including matching and mirroring techniques. To succeed, focus on practicing these techniques in real-world scenarios. This builds on earlier communication fundamentals, preparing you for influential interactions later in the course.

What's included

5 videos3 readings2 assignments

Unproductive meetings are a common challenge. In Week 4, you will learn to lead influential group conversations by planning effective meetings, understanding meeting etiquette, avoiding groupthink, and making better decisions. You'll also explore impression management. To succeed, actively participate in discussions and apply planning techniques. This module builds on your communication skills, preparing you for effective leadership and management in group settings.

What's included

5 videos1 reading2 assignments

Not all conversations are easy; some involve painful but necessary truths, like handling objections and overcoming resistance. In Week 5, you will learn to prepare for stressful conversations, understand the nature of objections, and develop strategies to reduce resistance and defend your proposals. For success, practice active listening and role-playing. This module builds on your understanding of audience motivation, equipping you with advanced communication skills for challenging interactions.

What's included

4 videos1 reading2 assignments

What's included

6 videos1 reading2 assignments

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Instructors

Instructor ratings
4.8 (831 ratings)
Associate Professor Lawrence Ang
Macquarie University
5 Courses165,110 learners
Arabella MacPherson
Macquarie University
7 Courses205,910 learners

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