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Introduction
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Why stories matter
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Sharing stories
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Delivering your story
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Knowledge check
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We want to hear from you!
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Conclusion
Storytelling -- Leadership Communications Program (Part 3)
Move from technical expert to compelling storyteller by prioritizing the why before the how and using voice and body language to engage your audience.
Instructor: Susan Young
1 hour
Last reviewed 07/2026
Video Content
Course Description
This module is an advanced exploration of strategic storytelling and executive presence, essential skills for engaging stakeholders and succeeding in shortlisted interviews. You’ll learn how to strengthen your vocal presence by controlling tone, pacing, and purposeful pauses so you connect with your audience and deliver the why before the how.
Through practical strategies and real-world examples, you’ll apply a structured approach to organize your ideas, simplify complex messages, and eliminate confusing jargon or overused industry buzzwords. You’ll also learn how to build strong Human-to-Human (H2H) rapport, project confidence through body language, and read the room so you can adjust your delivery in real time, whether presenting in a boardroom or on a virtual call.
By improving how you craft and deliver your message, you’ll replace negative self-talk with confident mental rehearsal, build executive credibility, and transform from a technical expert into a compelling storyteller who helps win new business.
Learning Objectives
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Demonstrate experiences that deepen relationships.
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Apply stories and anecdotes in meetings.
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Develop relationships through storytelling.
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Describe your story effectively.
Prerequisites
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Learning Level: Intermediate
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Prerequisite Knowledge: Completion of Shortlisted Meetings
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Recommended Knowledge: General knowledge of the construction industry.
Continuing Education Course Credits
Course Title: Built to Lead: Communication for Construction Leaders
Course Number: PC-01-05072026
Session Number: 1
Curriculum Group Name: AIA Providers
Credit: 5.5 AIA LU
Course Expiration Date: 05/15/2029
Procore's Continuing Education courses may qualify for continuing education credits with other professional organizations or fulfill state licensing requirements. If you are a member of a different organization, you can download your course completion certificate from your learning profile and report your completion yourself to the organization for potential credit. Please refer to the organization's continuing education requirements for course eligibility information.
AIA CES Provider statement
Procore Technologies is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 40108059. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I focus on storytelling when executives and clients want technical data?
Technical data matters, but decisions are often driven by trust, clarity, and relationships. Storytelling helps you turn complex information into a message that is relatable, memorable, and easy for decision-makers to act on. This module teaches you how to lead with the results and value you provide before diving into the technical details.
Will this module help me improve my presentation delivery for in-person and virtual meetings?
Absolutely. You’ll learn how to strengthen your vocal presence through tone, pacing, and purposeful pauses, while avoiding rambling or jargon. The module also teaches you how to read audience cues, adapt in real time, and present with confidence in both in-person and virtual settings.
What's Next
Continue your learning journey
This course is part of the “Built to Lead: Communication for Construction Leaders” Learning Path.
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1. Executive Presence
View Course PageDevelop the believability factor and relational leadership skills needed to translate technical project data into strategic business language that influences executive decision-makers.
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2. Shortlisted Meetings
View Course PageMaster the seller-doer interview, overcoming limiting self-talk, and reading non-verbal cues to connect with clients and decision-makers.
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You are here!
3. Storytelling
Move from technical expert to compelling storyteller by prioritizing the why before the how and using voice and body language to engage your audience.
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4. Internal Meetings
View Course PageDrive organizational change to create outcome-driven agendas, replacing rambling with clear communication, and delivering assertive updates.
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5. Coaching and Conflicts
View Course PageTransition from manager to strategic coach and resolving conflicts to foster psychological safety.
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6. Program Outro
View Course PageTest your knowledge with the final exam and explore pathways for continuous learning.
Related Resources
Instructor’s Corner
Susan Young
Susan Young is an award-winning CEO, communications facilitator, and A/E/C keynote speaker with 40 years of experience. Susan began her career as an on-air radio news reporter in New Jersey. Today, she works with A/E/C professionals who want to be clear communicators so they can build confidence, visibility, and respect. A native of New Jersey, Susan now lives in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She has two grown children.
AEC Amplify
AEC Amplify is a communication training platform for architecture, engineering, and construction professionals. An award-winning former broadcast journalist, Susan Young trains and coaches individuals and groups to clearly explain ideas, build client trust, and collaborate more effectively by treating communication as a powerful professional tool. Susan is a sought-after keynote speaker, trainer, and facilitator, providing in-person and online programs to architects, engineering, and construction professionals.