Join us June 13, 2023 @11:30am for an in-person meeting (Hillside) where our very own Courtney Valladares will be giving us insights into how to improve our communication skills by becoming a better listener.

The number one complaint from leaders and managers is “poor communication.” Today, effective communication is more important than ever, and developing active listening skills is a necessity in all aspects of one’s professional and personal life.

Active listening is a skill that anyone can develop with practice. Active listening is a fundamental interpersonal communication skill that helps leaders, administrators, and managers be better communicators and problem solvers. It helps you truly understand what people are saying in conversations and meetings (and not just what you want to hear, or think you hear).

Active listening is also a particularly useful tool to use during job interviews, since it can help you build positive rapport with your interviewer. When you practice active listening, you make the other person feel heard and valued. It's a solid foundation for any successful conversation in any setting, whether at work, at home, or in social situations.

Speaker Info:

Courtney Valladares has always had a love for communication which led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Communication Studies after finishing her undergraduate degree in the same discipline. For the past 17 years she has taught at a variety of colleges, including as Pepperdine University and California State University Northridge.  Courtney currently teaches one public speaking class a semester at Piedmont Virginia Community College, which allows her to share her passion for this critical skill. In addition to teaching, Courtney is the HR manager for the UVA Foundation, the group that manages all the real estate for UVA. Courtney lives in Charlottesville with her 10-year-old son, Liam, who is her joy. She enjoys volunteering with her church, running, traveling and all things Dolly Parton.