Communications Training
University Communications offers a training program tailored to the needs of NC State faculty and staff. Whether you're a researcher trying to communicate your work to the public or a communications specialist interested in creating top-notch content, we're here to help.
Our training sessions take place on a regular basis throughout the year, as well as on demand as needed. All sessions will take place in person unless otherwise indicated below. To request a custom training for an individual or group, please contact Tracey Peake. Note: social media trainings are only available once per semester via Reporter signup.
To register for a course, check out our current listings:
NC State Brand Training
Webinar
NC State University is a passionate community of hundreds of thousands of people who share an approach to tackling the world’s problems. Throughout this training, you’ll find guidance for telling the stories of that community — and for expressing the big, bold story that unites us: the NC State brand. Instructors will review design, visuals, video production, internal trademark use, voice and tone and the editorial guide.
Building Effective Emails and Newsletters
In-Person Session
The average employee receives over 100 emails per day — and many of those are deleted before they are ever opened. In this session, we’ll discuss how your email or newsletter can compete for attention, how to build and segment your audience, what kinds of content you should include and what metrics you should be watching. This is intended for beginners and anyone who wants to learn more about sending emails and newsletters.
AI in Communications
In-Person Session
AI is everywhere. Can we use it? Should we use it? We’ll cover which applications are approved for university use, the technology’s strengths and limitations, and best practices for AI use in communications.
Communicating Science to the Public
In-Person Session
Gain hands-on practice in explaining your research without using jargon. You’ll learn how to craft an elevator pitch to help you get the attention of people outside your field — including potential supporters of your work.
Media Relations Basics
In-Person Session
Get ready to publicize your work. You’ll learn how to build relationships with reporters, prepare for interviews and handle difficult questions.
Is This a Story?
In-Person Session
Walk through the process of story discovery, how to research and collect information, the mechanics of interviewing, and tips for how to get started with your writing.
Strategic Voice and Tone
In-Person Session
Learn the basics of voice and tone, as well as how to use specific writing techniques to shape the voice and tone of your writing in accordance with NC State’s brand.
Social Media 101
In-Person Session
An official social media presence can be a powerful tool — but only if you have the strategy, time and resources to sustain it. Join the director and assistant director of social media for an interactive session where you will learn about social media strategy, digital accessibility essentials and content creation tools.
Trademark Use on University Promotional Items
Webinar
This course provides instruction, resources and examples for all campus buyers (colleges, divisions, departments, units, affiliated agencies, etc.) who purchase NC State branded merchandise for internal and external use(s), as well as for the licensed vendors who produce and/or provide them to the university. The material covered, along with the applicable policies, rules, regulations, guidelines and best practices referenced, apply to the entire university community as well as all licensed vendors of officially-licensed NC State products and services.