CASE STUDY THREE

WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

CLIENT REQUIREMENT:

This Association, consisting of members from all over Scotland and its islands, wanted a training which would assist them personally and professionally.  They wanted to acquire better communication skills which would ultimately lead to more positive, productive and effective relations both in the workplace and in the context of their personal lives.  Major specific concerns were self-esteem, setting limits, more effective interaction with their children, and dealing with “difficult” colleagues and bosses.

OUR RESPONSE:

A workshop was given to a countrywide representative group of the Association – a very diverse group in terms of social and professional background and age.  We used the group’s existing strengths, experience and “know-how” and put together a program tailored to their varying needs.

Language and communication formed a major part of the workshop and was addressed and practiced in every session.  All issues and concerns of the individuals were addressed and worked on in either the main group sessions or in the small group and dyad sessions.  Specific questions were addressed and concrete examples given in response.  The workshop was extremely interactive so that all participants – even the shy ones - had many opportunities to express themselves in a “safe space”.  All participants received materials which they were able to use after the workshop to assist them to practice the skills that they had acquired.

CLIENT OUTCOMES:

As the workshop progressed, all participants became increasingly vocal and engaged enthusiastically in the many practical exercises.  They benefited not only from their own diversity during breaks and meals, but also from the wide variety of responses encountered during the interactive exercises.

Several of the participants requested further training and almost all wanted to have follow-up and refresher workshops to enhance the knowledge and experience gained at this initial one.  Arrangements are being made for this follow-up.

CLIENT EVALUATIONS:

“There were tangible examples of how to bring the material into everyday life.  The presenter put lots of examples into practice in her own presentation.”

“The workshop was approachable – i.e. not too “touchy-feely”.  I also appreciated the presenter’s listening skills, consistent thoughtfulness and the lack of pressure… I would definitely like a follow-up workshop.”

“In this workshop I learned to listen more attentively, to live in the present and to love my friends more…”

“The workshop had a good balance of being informative but at a relaxed pace.  The presenter was focused, entertaining and had good clarity and delivery.”

“The presenter showed us a generous spirit, patience… and humour.  Very good at motivating.  Thank you for your dedication and inspiration.”

“I appreciated the presenter’s passion for her work.”

“I appreciated the presenter’s perceptivity and skill at presenting ideas to the group in a way we found accessible…”

“I appreciated the clarity of the presentation…”

“I liked the clear way the information was presented and the visual aids used.  It made things easier to understand and follow.  The presenter spoke clearly, obviously enjoyed the project and was very approachable when I didn’t understand something.”

 “I enjoyed it all thoroughly.  Good balance of theory and practice.  Thank you for your inspiration!”

“I will try out the strategies learned in my personal life.”

“Having done this course I feel more comfortable and directed.”