Persuasion for Policymakers
Understand how to persuade and influence government decision-makers and stakeholders.
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What you will learn
Gain contemporary skills and knowledge for your job now.
The ability to persuade and influence is an essential skill for policymakers and public managers. Whether it’s presenting advice to a senior decision-maker, influencing a group in a meeting or convincing colleagues to support an initiative, the ability to persuade is pivotal to effective public leadership.
This micro-credential will arm you with the skills you need to persuade and communicate effectively. You will be introduced to the latest thinking in the fields of social psychology, communication, and the art of rhetoric.
It is ideal for professionals working in or with governments, including NGO's, who are seeking a greater understanding of the theoretical concepts and practical strategies needed to craft persuasive communication.
Explore the foundations of persuasion and examine critical skills needed for effective communication
Study core elements of the communication process, including storytelling, and learn to apply 'sticky principles' to your work to effectively communicate your ideas.
Gain tools to better understand the art of rhetoric
Analyse classic rhetorical frameworks and explore their relevance to contemporary policymaking and public management. Assess and compare case studies that demonstrate effective use of rhetorical techniques.
Examine how power, influence, and authority shape decision making in government
Compare and contrast power and influence, and use established theoretical models such as the six sources of influence to build rapport and trust. Examine the seven bases of power to unpack how personal power differs from positional power.
Understand the importance of narrative and storytelling to governance
Draw on key concepts, including the pyramid principle, to structure arguments and write persuasive public policy stories. Learn to develop narrative storyboards that will help you plan your communication techniques.
Analyse and present a real-world example of persuasion in public policy
Use the techniques you've learned in this course to present an example of persuasion in public policy or government. You'll deliver a thoughtful analysis that demonstrates a strong understanding of the art of persuasion.
This micro-credential is offered by the Melbourne School of Government. Sign up to the School’s monthly e-news for course, research and event updates.
Please view the video below to learn more about this course.
Who you will learn from
Learn from skilled academics and professional experts who will share invaluable knowledge you can use in your job.
Maria Katsonis
Subject Coordinator in Political Science
Maria Katsonis is a Public Policy Fellow at the University of Melbourne where she teaches at a post-graduate level. She previously spent 20 years in the Victorian Public Service as a senior executive. Her roles included Director, Governance and Director, Equality in the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC). Maria has a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University and was named an Australian Financial Review Woman of Influence for her leadership in diversity and inclusion.
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Fees
For individuals
To take Persuasion for Policymakers as a stand-alone Melbourne MicroCert, you'll pay the normal course price.
$1990.00 (inc GST)
Please contact Student Support to discuss discounts and payment options for University of Melbourne staff or alumni, or to pay by invoice.
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If you have a question about our professional development options or how to apply, please contact student support.