Course Highlights

• Learn how to become a successful communicator in person and in virtual contexts
• Participate in sessions on topics including speaking persuasively, visual persuasion, communicating quantitative information clearly, and adapting messages to audiences
• Earn a certificate of course completion from the MIT Sloan School of Management

Why attend Communication and Persuasion in the Digital Age?

Grounded in extensive cognitive research on how we learn and observe, Communication and Persuasion in the Digital Age is designed to help executives and managers become successful communicators in person and in virtual contexts, like group discussions, presentations, and social media.

Advancements in technology and the rapid proliferation of digital media, data analytics, artificial intelligence and online collaboration require executives to lead their organizations with sophisticated communication skills, adapted for these new ways of working. In particular, AI-assisted communication is affecting almost every aspect of professional communication—ChatGPT, AI-created slide shows, social media bots, AI created videos, and even personalized head shots. A dedicated session will describe how such technology works and what the strengths and weaknesses are of relying on AI-assisted communication. To be a successful leader today, you must be able to effectively persuade and influence at all levels, in person and virtually, and with supporting data.

Course experience

Edward Schiappa and Ben Shields draw on cutting-edge communication research, theories of persuasion, studies on parasocial interaction, and empirical studies on compelling storytelling to help participants solve problems, make quality decisions, and motivate people. Session topics include speaking persuasively, visual persuasion, communicating quantitative information clearly, and adapting messages to audiences. You will also benefit from small group discussions.

Learn more about the live online experience. 

Learn more about the in-person course experience. 

We do not recommend this course if you have already completed Interpersonal Communication: Strategies for Executives, unless you are seeking a refresher of the content.

Applying to the course

We accept enrollments until the offering reaches capacity, at which point we will maintain a waitlist. Many of the courses fill up several weeks in advance, so we advise that you enroll as early as possible to secure your seat.

You can begin the application process by using the red 'Enroll Now' bar at the bottom of the screen.

Health and Safety

See our on campus healthy and safety policies.

Have questions?

Contact us if you would like to speak with a program director or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common questions about our courses.