Communication shapes every part of library work — from supporting users and working with colleagues to navigating misunderstandings, giving feedback and making requests.

In this practical webinar recording, Helen Rimmer explores how kind, thoughtful communication can build trust, strengthen relationships and create more inclusive workplaces. You’ll discover how empathy, active listening and greater awareness of people’s needs can help you communicate clearly without losing warmth or compassion.

The session introduces the four steps of Nonviolent Communication:

Observation — describing what has happened without judgement
Feeling — recognising and expressing emotions
Need — understanding what sits beneath those feelings
Request — asking clearly and positively for what you need

You’ll consider where communication can break down, what helps people feel genuinely heard and how small changes to your approach can lead to more constructive conversations.

You’ll explore

Why communication matters in library and workplace settings
The principles of trust, kindness, civility, understanding and inclusion
How to use Nonviolent Communication in everyday situations
Practical techniques for active listening
How to turn assumptions or judgements into clear observations
Ways to make kind, specific and achievable requests
How to apply these approaches to challenging conversations

Your purchase includes

The full webinar video recording
The Bridging Worlds with Words reflection and practice workbook
Guided prompts to connect the learning with your own experiences
An active-listening checklist
A practical framework for planning a real workplace conversation
Next steps to help you put the learning into practice

Who is it for?

This recording is suitable for library and information professionals at every career stage, including team members, managers and leaders. It will be particularly valuable if you want to handle conversations more confidently, reduce misunderstandings or contribute to a kinder and more connected workplace.

Learn at your own pace and leave with a practical communication framework you can begin using straight away.

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