Research Methods for Strategic Communicators

Overview

This course focuses on the foundation of any successful strategic communication campaign: effective research. Participants will learn about the different research methods available to them and how these can be used to gather clear and compelling research data. Participants will also learn how research can be used before a campaign, during and after a campaign; each time has a specific role in strategic communication.

Participants will learn fundamental research concepts, apply them using hands-on exercises and start planning a study to inform the research they hope to conduct as part of a strategic communication planning process.

Topics

• Explore the range of research methods that can be used by communicators to ensure their work is more strategic
• Discover the key steps to take when conducting research using each of the methods explored
• Appreciate the resources required to ensure effective research and find effective ways to overcome any resources that are lacking in quantity or quality
• Analyze research data in basic ways that reveal important findings
• Draw effectively from research findings to make informed and strategic decisions

Audience

• This workshop is intended for people who will develop strategic communication plans for clients in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Mid-level and senior communicators will be able to make the most of the learnings from the workshop

Duration

Cost

• $655 (plus tax)

Featured Instructor

Bernard Gauthier, PhD’s background includes 35 years of communication work with clients, including the Government of Canada, national associations and private sector organizations. He has also trained hundreds of clients in different aspects of communication.

Bernard researched and developed numerous strategic communication plans working with one of Canada’s top PR agencies, allowing him to develop the CARE Model, which became the basis for his 2018 book Strategic Communication in Canada.

Bernard has taught at Carleton University and the Bachelor of Public Relations program at Conestoga College.

Sessions