Speaking Under Pressure
Skills and strategies to stay composed, think clearly, and deliver impactful messages under pressure
Executives who can stay composed under pressure are seen as confident, persuasive, and trustworthy.
This program equips senior leaders and managers with the skills to navigate high-pressure interactions—whether it’s responding to tough questions on the spot, addressing unexpected challenges in meetings, or managing confrontational exchanges with clarity and control.
Core Skills Learnt
This program builds the skills to handle tough questions, deliver bad news, push back diplomatically, and stay composed in high-stakes situations—using proven frameworks and practical techniques.
The 5-step framework for handling a pressured situation
The seven options to handle any type of comment or question from an audience
How to deliver bad news
How to push back or challenge a senior’s idea diplomatically
How to excel in job interviews
How the Program is Delivered
Participants receive hands-on coaching and immediate feedback as they work through realistic communication scenarios.
Each program is carefully tailored to align with your team’s specific goals, challenges, and communication context—ensuring relevant, high-impact learning outcomes.
Format
- Up to 16 participants per program
- in-person or virtual
- One day or two ½ day modules
(Total: 8 hours)
Leadership Communication Development Framework
A structured path to mastering the skills that elevate your presence, clarity, and impact at every stage of leadership.
This framework outlines a clear development track for professionals looking to elevate their communication skills as they progress through their careers. From mastering the fundamentals as an associate to building executive presence and gravitas as a senior leader, the model maps targeted programs to specific roles, responsibilities, audiences, and skillsets. Whether you’re pitching ideas, leading teams, or influencing at the board level, this pathway is designed to help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact at every stage of leadership.
Next Steps
If you’re leading a team and want sharper communication from yourself or your people, here’s how we begin:
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Start the Conversation
A brief one-on-one conversation (15–30 mins) to explore your current priorities and communication challenges.
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Proposal and Customisation
If there is a fit, I’ll propose a focused program based on your goals, your role, and your team’s needs.
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Delivery and Evaluation
I deliver the sessions and check in with you throughout. Afterward, we review participant feedback and overall program impact.
Get started
Enquire about how Michael can help you or your organisation transform the way you communicate.
Case Studies
Discover what participants are saying about their learning experience.
Elliott Macleod
Managing Principal – NSW
CBRE
Anil Pillai
General Manager – Technology
CBA
Peter Thompson
Head of Quality Engineering & Testing
ASX
