University Human Resources

June Professional Development Updates

This June, we are focusing on influence without authority, the ability to move ideas forward, gain buy-in, and inspire action regardless of title or position. Influence is not about control or hierarchy. It is about clarity, credibility, and connection. It shows up in how you communicate, how you listen, and how consistently others trust your perspective.

In today’s collaborative work environment, success often depends less on formal authority and more on your ability to shape thinking and guide outcomes across teams. Whether you are sharing an idea, leading a project, or navigating competing priorities, your influence grows when others understand your message, feel heard, and see value in your contribution.

Influence is also built over time through small, intentional actions such as how you frame problems, how you respond under pressure, and how you engage others in solutions rather than directives. When practiced consistently, it becomes a quiet but powerful driver of impact.

Featured Talk: How to Speak So That People Want to Listen by Julian Treasure

Julian Treasure explores how the way we speak directly affects how we are heard and how small changes in tone, clarity, and intention can dramatically improve influence and connection. He highlights practical techniques for speaking with empathy, authority, and presence.

Watch the TED Talk (10 mins)

After watching, consider:

  • How does your tone impact how your message is received by others?
  • What habits might be helping or hindering your ability to influence effectively?
  • How can you adjust the way you frame ideas to increase clarity and engagement?
  • Where could you shift from telling to inviting collaboration?

LinkedIn Learning Courses

Explore these LinkedIn Learning courses to strengthen your ability to influence and communicate effectively:

  • Influencing Others: Learn practical strategies for building credibility, understanding stakeholders, and adapting your communication style to different audiences.
  • Communicating with Confidence: Develop techniques to present ideas clearly, handle challenging conversations, and communicate with greater presence and authority.
  • Building Trust: Focus on behaviors that establish trust over time including consistency, active listening, and follow-through.

To access more LinkedIn Learning courses, go to Workday Learning, select Search for Available Learning, and filter by LinkedIn Learning under Content Type.

Staff Development Day

We’re looking forward to seeing you at Staff Development Day on Wednesday, June 10! This year’s theme, We Are Brown: Forward Together, underscores the importance of our community connections, our resilience, and our commitment to continuing to grow together.

There will be over 100 sessions covering topics such as professional development, faculty research, self-care, and more. Brown staff will also take part in a variety of volunteer opportunities with organizations across Rhode Island. The day will feature a wide range of engaging sessions and opportunities for connection.

Upcoming Training Opportunities

Leading with Clarity and Connection (In Person) - Leadership Certification Program Course
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Transform communication into a strategic leadership tool by delivering precise feedback, resolving conflicts, and fostering continuous growth.

Staff Essentials (In-Person)
June 24, 2026 & July 1, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The two-day Staff Essentials Program provides foundational knowledge and practical skills to help non-supervisory staff thrive in today’s dynamic work environment.

To register or learn more, visit the UHR events website

Recommended Reads from the LDE Lending Library

This month’s selections explore how influence is built through communication, trust, and human connection.

  • Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini: A foundational look at the principles behind why people say yes and how ethical influence works in practice.
  • Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
    A powerful exploration of how different communication styles can still lead to strong, effective influence.

Visit our virtual LDE Lending Library to explore and check out these titles or others.

Explore LDE Next Level

Leverage this self-paced course to strengthen your influence and communication skills:

  • The Art of Managing Up: Learn how to “manage up” by building a strong, effective working relationship with your manager.

LDE’s Quick Tip of the Month

Before your next meeting or conversation, take a moment to reframe your message through the lens of your audience:

  • What do they care about most?
  • What outcome do you want them to walk away with?
  • How can you make your message simpler, clearer, and more relevant to them?

Small adjustments in how you frame your ideas can significantly increase your ability to influence outcomes and build stronger collaboration.