COMMUNICATION IN THE WORKPLACE –
From Small Talk to Difficult Conversations
Communication is part of everyday working life. Apprentices speak with colleagues, supervisors, trainers, customers and external partners – often in situations that are unfamiliar or challenging.
In this workshop, apprentices learn how communication works, why misunderstandings arise and how they can express themselves clearly and respectfully.
They practise different workplace conversations, from informal exchanges and asking questions to giving feedback, raising concerns and dealing with criticism or conflict.
Content
- Understanding how communication works
- Recognising verbal and non-verbal messages
- Understanding how misunderstandings arise
- Listening actively and asking useful questions
- Expressing ideas, opinions and needs clearly
- Using positive and respectful language
- Giving and receiving feedback
- Dealing constructively with criticism
- Preparing for difficult conversations
- Remaining calm in emotional or uncomfortable situations
- Addressing problems instead of avoiding them
- Handling disagreements and conflicts respectfully
- Communicating with supervisors, trainers, colleagues and customers
- Practical exercises, role plays and feedback
How Does the Company Benefit?
Apprentices communicate more clearly and confidently in everyday workplace situations.
They learn to ask questions early, address uncertainties and respond constructively to feedback and criticism.
This reduces misunderstandings, supports cooperation and helps prevent small problems from developing into larger conflicts.
What Makes This Workshop Different
The workshop does not focus on communication models alone. It connects basic principles with realistic situations from vocational training and everyday working life.
Participants work with examples that are relevant to their own experience and practise wording and responses they can use directly in the workplace.
The aim is not to provide rigid scripts, but to help apprentices understand communication and develop their own confident and respectful style.
What Apprentices Appreciate About This Workshop
Apprentices can discuss situations they genuinely find difficult and try out different ways of responding.
They receive practical wording, direct feedback and useful strategies without being pressured to reveal personal experiences.
The workshop creates a supportive environment in which participants can practise, make mistakes and develop greater confidence.
International Perspective
Communication styles can differ considerably between countries, cultures and organisations.
Expectations regarding directness, hierarchy, feedback, criticism and conflict may therefore lead to misunderstandings in international workplaces.
The workshop can be adapted to the cultural context of the participants. For international groups, it can also explore typical communication expectations in German companies and support successful cooperation across cultural boundaries.
Target Group
Apprentices and students in dual study programmes
Venue
At the company’s premises or at a conference or training centre
Format
One-day workshop, approximately 8 training units, for example from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including breaks.
The ideal maximum group size is approximately 12 participants.
The content, format and duration can be adapted to the organisation, target group and local context.