Voice of Influence: Self-advocacy and Impact at Work

A practical, workplace-focused workshop developing confident self-advocacy, influence, and professional presence in everyday conversations.

Being good at your work isn’t always enough, professionals also need the confidence and language to advocate for their ideas, contributions, and development.

Voice of Influence is a practical, two-session online workshop designed to help professionals speak up with confidence, credibility, and respect at work. Participants learn how to express their value clearly, ask for support or feedback, and contribute with influence in meetings and workplace conversations.

This workshop focuses on self-advocacy as a professional skill. Through guided practice and real-world scenarios, participants develop language, tone, and presence that allow them to communicate their value while maintaining strong relationships and alignment with organisational goals.

The programme is highly practical and immediately applicable, supporting professionals to navigate conversations about recognition, workload, development opportunities, and contribution with clarity and confidence.

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Advocate for their ideas, needs, and contributions with confidence
• Use assertive, respectful language that builds influence and trust
• Frame their value in ways that align with team and organisational goals
• Speak up effectively in meetings, feedback conversations, and professional discussions

This workshop is ideal for professionals, emerging leaders, and organisations looking to build confident, influential communicators.

**This course is delivered over two dates: 22nd April and 29th April. Participants must attend both sessions.**

Pilot cohort offer: As this is a pilot delivery, participants receive a 25% discount.

About Speech New Zealand

Speech NZ is the national professional body for speech and communication practitioners, with over 60 years of experience supporting effective, ethical, and evidence-based communication across education, leadership, and the workplace.

About the Facilitator

Cecily Archer is a communication practitioner and facilitator with Speech NZ, specialising in professional communication, self-advocacy, and leadership presence. Cecily works with professionals across sectors to help them communicate their value clearly and confidently, particularly in challenging or high-stakes workplace conversations. Her facilitation style is practical, thoughtful, and supportive, creating a safe environment for participants to practise new skills and build confidence.