NIDA's experts can make you more successful at your job
Australia’s renowned National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) is offering corporate managers a 5-week, interactive, online course teaching the tools of the acting trade. “Storytelling: From Personal to Professional,” explores the practical elements of effective storytelling including the vocal, physical and imaginative skills used by actors.
“There’s an edge to the presenter, communicator or business negotiator who can tell a compelling story to capture the imaginations, hearts and minds of their audience,” says Vanessa White, Director of NIDA Corporate.
White says the use of storytelling in work presentations not only helps get a point across, it also engages colleagues with greater authenticity and a stronger emotional connection.
“Stories are a great enabler to building rapport with people, particularly when we share experiences which are relevant, relatable, and can encourage a sense of empathy or understanding from those you are talking to,” says White.
“Storytelling: From Personal to Professional,” is for managers who want to excite their team with ideas, influence stakeholders or inspire change.
“This course is designed to offer practical methods you can implement straight away either in a face-to-face context or to navigate the challenges of remote working, whatever your industry or company structure,” explains White.
The modules include: how to structure a compelling narrative for presentations, enhancing vocal and physical presence, and ensuring your key message lands.
“Many people come to us concerned that they do not feel ‘engaging’ or ‘inspiring’ when they present to their colleagues or clients at work,” says White.
“This could be for a variety of reasons including their confidence, the content itself, or the way they articulate and structure their ideas.”
White says the process of preparing a presentation should include understanding the audience and what captures their attention and interests.
“Think about this question: what do you want them to think, feel or do as a result of your presentation? Working through these elements can help frame the context and purpose of the presentation, and to help ensure their key message lands,” she says.
What if you’re a quiet introvert recently promoted to a responsible managerial role? White encourages you to take the course.
“At NIDA we practise strategies to manage fear. No actor goes on stage without a rehearsal, just as no athlete achieves their personal best without training, a purpose and a positive mindset. It is all about learning by doing.”
Accomplished presenters can expect to learn new skills, like analysing the audience to prepare a story’s foundations and using story archetypes to inspire and expand the stories within a presentation.
Elevator pitch style, HRD Australia asked White what she would say if she was trapped in a lift with an executive who just gave a terrible presentation?
“Firstly, I would check in to see if they are OK. I might also ask them why they felt it went poorly.”
She would also ask: Did they feel nervous? Did they feel prepared? Was the content relevant to the audience?
“In asking these questions, I might ascertain from the executive what their learning needs might be, and how we might best tailor something to help them make positive change.”
