Interest-Based Communications 

A philosophy for professional (and personal) interactions

What You'll Learn

This five-session course teaches professionals a practical approach to communication rooted in interest-based negotiation principles. Rather than focusing on what people say (their positions), you'll learn to understand why they say it (their interests) - a shift that transforms how you connect, negotiate, and resolve conflicts.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course, you'll be able to:

• Collaborate effectively in areas that would otherwise be in conflict

• Deliver memorable first impressions as an individual and representative of your organization

• Engage in conversations that prompt others to share vital information

• Present ideas so others want to hear, understand, and contribute

• Understand how decisions are made and learn to influence those decisions

Five-Session Structure

Session 1: Interest-Based Negotiations Learn the foundation - focusing on interests rather than positions, plus the mirroring technique for better understanding.

Session 2: Introductions and Storytelling Master memorable introductions using the Venn Diagram approach and storytelling frameworks that launch meaningful conversations.

Session 3: Conversations and Questions Develop skills to stay present in conversations, avoid common pitfalls, and ask questions that encourage deeper sharing.

Session 4: Conflict & Alignment Explore communication breakdowns and learn repair techniques including steelmanning, creative problem-solving, and visual conflict mapping.

Session 5: Giving and Receiving Feedback Apply interest-based communication principles to deliver constructive feedback and receive criticism effectively, turning potentially difficult conversations into opportunities for growth and stronger relationships.

Learning Format

Each session combines presentation, interactive discussion, small group exercises, and "Aliveness Training" - real-world assignments to practice skills between sessions.

We teach how to:

• collaborate in areas that would
  otherwise be conflicts.

• make memorable impressions as an
  individual and representative of your organization.

• have the confidence in conversation to prompt others to share vital information.

• present ideas so that others want to hear, understand and contribute.

• understand how to influence decisions.

• Give and receive feedback so that you are your colleagues can rapidly improve.

Class location:
University Tower
1034 South Brentwood Blvd
Suite 1680
Saint Louis, Missouri 63114