Communicating in Government

Overview

Federal departments and agencies are required to provide Canadians with timely, accurate, clear, objective, and complete information about federal policies, programs, services, and initiatives. A department or agency’s ability to effectively communicate to Canadians – either proactively or reactively – can make the difference between a positive or a negative outcome. A key figure in this process is the communications advisor. While roles and responsibilities may differ amongst those working as federal communicators, what is consistent are the policies, procedures, and products that underpin the communications function.

Through a combination of lessons, discussions and hands-on exercises, participants will review federal policies, procedures, and communications competencies, and practice the skills necessary to be a strategic communicator.

Topics

• Federal communications policies, procedures and standards
• Roles and responsibilities of federal communications officials
• Writing strategic communications products including Media Lines, News Releases, Backgrounders and Questions and Answers
• Briefing senior officials and providing succinct communications advice
• Reading the public environment to anticipate questions and prepare messages that resonate
• Communicating in plain language, especially when explaining the complex
• Editing to ensure conciseness

Audience

• Current communications advisors, media relations officers, media monitors and others in the IS community
• Anyone looking to work in the field of communications as a federal public servant

Duration

Cost

• $1095(plus tax)

Featured Instructor

John Holt, B.A., has worked in government communications for over 20 years, with roles in web, strategic and internal communications, recruiting, and video production. As part of the Communications Community Office, he designed learning sessions for communications professionals on a variety of topics. He is a strong believer that improving communications skills within the workplace requires an ongoing commitment. He brings his background as a radio host and television producer, director, and writer into the classroom.

A very useful and insightful workshop. I would recommend it for everyone who wants to improve their skills in the area of communications and who would like to know more about the work behind various communications products. A multifaceted course that is useful in many different lines of work. 

Sessions