Communication Skills course

In this course you discover your own communication style, learn to switch consciously between responses and practise with feedback, active listening and coming across clearly in conversations.

8.5 from 50 reviews 4,6 on Google NRTO quality mark

Free cancellation up to four weeks before the start, so feel free to book now.

For a team or department? Arrange your own group, at your premises or ours. In-company for your team

In brief. Communication Skills is a classroom course of 2 days. You can take it in Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague and Groningen, among other locations, or online, in a group of no more than 8 participants. The price is € 1250,- excl. VAT per participant, including course materials, lunch on location and a certificate of attendance. For a team or department we also deliver this course in-company.

  • More calm and control in every conversation
  • Switching consciously between response patterns
  • Giving and receiving feedback with impact
  • Insight into your personal communication style
  • Communicating clearly without losing yourself
MiekeRobMichaelaChristy

Your trainer: Mieke, Rob, Michaela or Christy 1.252 evaluations in total, average score 8,9. View the trainers

You communicate all day long, but does your message really get across? In this course you gain insight into your style, pitfalls and response patterns. You work on communicating clearly, calmly and convincingly, without losing yourself.

Description

Communication plays a part in almost every contact, but by no means always goes the way you would like. In this course you gain insight into your own way of communicating and the effect it has on others.

You will work on your verbal, non-verbal and paralinguistic expression and discover how your frame of reference and automatic response patterns colour your conversations. You will explore the difference between primary and secondary responses, so that you can switch more consciously at the moments that matter.

The course combines short bursts of theory with plenty of practice, reflection and feedback. Accessible models, such as the qualities and pitfalls circle and the Shannon & Weaver communication model, help you recognise patterns and apply them directly to situations from your own working or private life.

An intake interview takes place beforehand in which your learning needs are discussed. You work in a small group of no more than eight participants, which allows for personal attention and a safe atmosphere in which to experiment.

For teams and organisations. For a team or department we deliver this course in-company, focused on the way you communicate with each other and with clients.

Topics

During the course, topics covered include:

  • How does communication work? Insight into the communication process, noise, misunderstandings and the effect on the other person.
  • Your communication style: your core qualities, pitfalls and how you react under pressure.
  • Primary or secondary reactions: switching between impulsive and conscious reactions.
  • Verbal, non-verbal and paralinguistic communication: what you say, what you radiate and how your voice sounds.
  • Active listening: showing attention and understanding, even without words.
  • Giving and receiving feedback: clearly indicating your boundaries and being open to the other person.
  • Frames of reference and miscommunication: how differences in background and conviction colour a conversation.
  • Practical models: including the circle of qualities and pitfalls and the Shannon & Weaver communication model, always applied to your day-to-day practice.

Result

After this course you know how you come across and what you radiate, both verbally and non-verbally. You recognise your automatic response patterns and can consciously switch between them. You express yourself clearly and with confidence, and you give and receive feedback in a constructive way.

You understand how miscommunication arises and how to prevent it. You keep more control in conversations without losing your own character. Models such as the qualities and pitfalls circle and the Shannon & Weaver communication model give you practical support in doing so.

Target audience

This course is intended for anyone who wants to get a better grip on the way they communicate. You will probably recognise yourself in one or more of these points:

You come across differently from how you intend, you sometimes come on too strong or, conversely, hold back too much, you find it difficult to give or receive feedback, you want to deal better with emotions in conversations, you want to express yourself more firmly in work or private situations, you want more self-insight into how you communicate. And why.

Every participant brings their own learning objectives. You decide where you want to grow.

The course is suitable for office staff who spend a lot of time in meetings, writing emails and working with other departments.

Teaching method

You work in a small group of no more than eight participants, so there is plenty of room for personal attention and your own input. Beforehand you have an intake interview, in which we clarify your learning needs.

During the course we alternate short pieces of theory with plenty of practice, reflection and feedback. You learn above all by doing: you experience situations, receive immediate feedback and discover what works for you. Models such as the qualities and pitfalls circle and the Shannon & Weaver communication model serve as a practical framework, always linked to your own practice.

Prior knowledge

You do not need any specific prior knowledge for this course. You do not need any experience with communication models or courses in this field. It does help if you are open to self-reflection and willing to practise with your own communication style.

Comments

No specific comments.

Practical information

Number of days
2 days
Course times
from 10 am to 5 pm
Teaching hours
12 hours
Education level
Suitable for all levels
Preparation time
None
Included
Course materials and lunch on site
Certificate
At the end of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance
Cancel
Free up to four weeks before the start (cancellation terms)

Language

The course is given in Dutch as standard. The trainer speaks English. English-language course materials can be used. If at least 3 participants register, the course can also be given entirely in English.

In-company

Would you like to organise this training for a whole group or several groups? This can be cost-effective. For example, we can tailor the content entirely to your organisation, and training a whole group is also cheaper.

Are you looking at large numbers of participants or a complete academy? That involves a great deal. Consider planning and communication, for example, or identifying and agreeing the objectives and content of the training. Or differences in level, feedback mechanisms and safeguarding. Fortunately, Learnit has extensive experience in this field (more than 25 years) and we are happy to help you through this process.

Request a quote More about Communication Skills in-company

All start dates

2 training days. Confirmed dates first, then in order of date.

  • Tue 19 Jan & Tue 2 Feb 2027Certain to go ahead Utrecht · 10:00–17:00 · trainer JorisFree cancellation until 22 December Enrol
  • Tue 3 & Tue 17 November 2026 Amsterdam · 10:00–17:00 Enrol
  • Mon 30 Nov & Mon 14 Dec 2026 Utrecht · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 2 November Enrol
  • Mon 21 Dec 2026 & Mon 4 Jan 2027 Utrecht · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 23 November Enrol
  • Tue 5 & Tue 19 January 2027 Groningen · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 8 December Enrol
  • Tue 5 & Tue 19 January 2027 Zwolle · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 8 December Enrol
  • Tue 19 Jan & Tue 2 Feb 2027 Online · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 22 December Enrol
  • Thu 28 Jan & Thu 11 Feb 2027 Amsterdam · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 31 December Enrol
  • Wed 17 & Wed 31 March 2027 Eindhoven · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 17 February Enrol
  • Wed 31 Mar & Wed 14 Apr 2027 Arnhem · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 3 March Enrol
  • Tue 3 & Tue 17 August 2027 The Hague · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 6 July Enrol

No suitable start date? Send us a date request, and we'll look at the options together.

This course for your team?

Plan your own group on a date that suits you, at your office, at our premises or online. We tailor the content to your day-to-day work, and training a whole group is cheaper than individual bookings.

  • Your date and location
  • Tailored content
  • Multiple groups or an academy are also possible
  • More than 25 years' experience
Request a quote No obligation, an adviser will be in touch shortly How in-company works

What others say about this course

8.5
Communication Skills course: average 8.5 from 50 reviews

“I would recommend this course, especially because it makes clear how you come across to other people. Something you often don't think about and have no idea of.”

R. van Beusekom
Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA)
8.2

“Intensive, instructive course with interesting material, given by a competent trainer.”

M. Dolmans
Stichting Kempenhaeghe
8.0

“The course was very worthwhile. A great deal of attention is paid to personal learning objectives and account is taken of each individual's possibilities. What you learn can be applied in practice.”

R. Aerts
Verpleeghuis Norschoten
8.8

“To professionalise communication skills among (new) colleagues, particularly in view of a role in which all sorts of people are continually addressed about their behaviour. The way you communicate is essential in this.”

M. - Schiphol9.6

“The trainer has a relaxed manner and pays a great deal of attention to personal learning objectives.”

J. Geraedts
Provincie Limburg
7.2

“The course holds up a mirror to the participants, which gives you a different insight into how people perceive something and translate it into an opinion/attitude.”

A. Frederik
Hommerson Leisure Vlaardingen B.V.
9.2

Training formats

Classroom

2 days€ 1250,-
  • Pleasant venue with a good trainer
  • Small groups
  • Inspiring and motivating
Choose a date

Online

2 days€ 1080,-
  • Online with a trainer
  • Personal
  • Practical and interactive
Choose a date

In-company

Bespoke trainingOn request
  • 100% for your group
  • Bespoke training
  • At your place or ours
View in-company

Workshop

Up to 4 hours for groupsOn request
  • Suitable for events
  • Interactive and inspiring
  • Large groups too
Request a quote

Private training

At our place or yoursOn request
  • 100% just for you
  • Achieve a lot in little time
  • Whenever you want
Request a quote

Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel free of charge?

Yes. Up to four weeks before the first day of the course you can cancel free of charge, without giving a reason. You then receive a credit note or, if you have already paid, a refund. If you cancel later, you pay part of the course fee: 25% between four and two weeks before the start, 75% in the two weeks before it and 100% in the final week. Moving to another start date is free of charge up to two weeks before the start, after that 50%. Sending a colleague in your place is always possible. Read the cancellation terms.

Who is the Communication Skills course suitable for?
The course is suitable for anyone who wants more grip on their own way of communicating. Think of professionals who come across differently from how they intend, who find it difficult to give or receive feedback, or who want to respond more firmly in conversations. No prior education is required. You work in a small group of no more than 8 participants, so there is room for personal learning objectives.
Which topics are covered during the Communication Skills course?
During the Communication Skills course you cover, among other things, the communication process, your personal communication style, primary and secondary reactions, verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, giving and receiving feedback, and frames of reference. You work with models such as the qualities and pitfalls circle and the Shannon & Weaver communication model, always linked to practical situations from your own job.
Do I receive a certificate after the Communication Skills course?
Yes, after completing the Communication Skills course you will receive a Learnit certificate as proof of participation. This certificate shows that you attended the course in full and took an active part in the exercises, reflection and feedback sessions. You can use the certificate as a valuable addition to your CV or LinkedIn profile.
Is any prior knowledge required for the Communication Skills course?
No, no prior knowledge is required for the Communication Skills course. You can start straight away, whatever your education or work experience. A short intake interview takes place beforehand in which your learning objectives are discussed, so that the course matches your situation. The classroom course is suitable for anyone who wants to learn to communicate more effectively in work or private situations.
How is the Communication Skills course delivered and how large is the group?
You follow the Communication Skills course in a classroom setting, in a small group of no more than 8 participants. Beforehand there is an intake interview to make sure the course matches your learning needs. During the course you work with short theory sessions, active working methods, exercises and feedback. Because the group is small, you receive a great deal of personal attention and there is room for your own input in a safe atmosphere.
How do I know whether this course suits me, or whether I would be better off with a book on communication or an online course?
A book or e-learning works perfectly well if you want to pick up the theory behind communication models, such as Shannon & Weaver or the core quadrant of qualities and pitfalls. What that does not train is your own behaviour under pressure. This classroom course is experience-based: you practise in a group of no more than 8 participants using active working methods, receive immediate feedback from the trainer and fellow participants, and see how you actually come across, verbally, non-verbally and paralinguistically. Choose this option if you notice that you come across differently from how you intend, or if you struggle with feedback and emotions in conversations. Choose self-study if you are mainly after knowledge and already have a good idea of your own patterns of reaction.
What is the difference between this course and a course in conversation techniques or assertiveness?
Communication Skills is broader than a conversation techniques or assertiveness course. The focus is on self-insight and behaviour: how you come across, what your style is under pressure, and how you switch between primary and secondary responses. You work with models such as the core qualities and pitfalls quadrant and the Shannon & Weaver communication model. An assertiveness course focuses mainly on setting boundaries; a conversation techniques course on concrete skills such as probing or structuring. This course combines both angles and adds non-verbal and paralinguistic communication. The course is taught in a classroom setting in groups of no more than 8 participants. Choose this if you do not want to sharpen one sub-skill, but want to understand and adjust your entire communicative behaviour.
How quickly can I apply what I learn in this course in my conversations at work or in my private life?
You apply what you practise straight away. Often between day 1 and day 2. The course is built around active working methods: you practise with situations from your own working life, receive feedback from the trainer and the group (max. 8 participants) and reflect on what works. In between there is usually a period in which you try out what you have learned in your everyday conversations. On day 2 you discuss what you came up against. Skills such as active listening, giving feedback and consciously switching between reacting primarily and secondarily show results fairly quickly. Deeper patterns. Staying calm when something touches a nerve, for example. Questions take longer to practise. Compared with a one-off half-day workshop, this gives you more scope to genuinely change your behaviour rather than merely understand it.
Which communication models will I learn in this course, and are they genuinely usable in practice?
During the Communication Skills course you work with two main models: the core quadrant of qualities and pitfalls (by Daniel Ofman) and the communication model of Shannon & Weaver. You use the core quadrant to map out your own strengths, pitfalls, allergies and challenges. The Shannon & Weaver model helps you to recognise noise and misunderstandings in a conversation: sender, message, channel, receiver and feedback. In addition, verbal, non-verbal and paralinguistic communication are covered, as well as the distinction between reacting primarily and secondarily. The models serve as a framework. The emphasis is on practising with your own situations, not on memorising theory. In the classroom course (group of up to 8) you apply them directly to conversations from your own working or private context.
What happens if I notice during the course that I am affected or that emotions come up? Is there room for that?
Yes, room is deliberately made for that. The course is experience-based: you practise with situations that are relevant to you, and it is precisely the moments when you are affected that are instructive. One part of the programme covers the difference between primary and secondary reactions: learning to switch between an impulsive reaction and a conscious choice. The group is small (a maximum of 8 participants), which allows for a safe atmosphere in which to genuinely work on this. Beforehand, you have an intake interview in which you discuss your learning objectives, so the trainer knows what matters to you. This is not therapy; it remains a communication course focused on skills. You will, however, be given tools to stay calmer and clearer in conversations, even under pressure.
Does this course also work if I mainly communicate in English or in international teams?
The Communication Skills course is taught in Dutch and you carry out the exercises in Dutch. The underlying models. Such as the qualities and pitfalls circle, the communication model of Shannon & Weaver, active listening and the distinction between verbal, non-verbal and paralinguistic communication. Are language-independent and directly applicable in English-language or international conversations. What you learn about your own style, your response patterns under pressure and your frames of reference, you take with you into every language and culture. If you specifically want to practise in English or put cultural differences centre stage, a separate course in English business communication or intercultural communication makes more sense. This course (classroom, max. 8 participants) focuses on your communication behaviour, not on language proficiency.
What does the Communication Skills course cost and how long does it take?

You can find the current price at the top right of this course page, along with the schedule, location and delivery format. For in-company or bespoke courses we are happy to provide a quotation on request.

Confirmed to run: Tue 19 Jan & Tue 2 Feb 2027 in Utrecht, can also be attended online

This date already has enough participants. Free cancellation up to four weeks before the start, so you can secure a place now.

€ 1250,-excl. VAT · confirmed on Tue 19 Jan
Choose a date