More Than Your Voice: Practical Strategies for Speaking to Power

What if speaking to power felt less like a risk and more like a skill you could grow? In this 60-minute session, Michelle Ornat shares practical strategies for engaging with positional power, such as those in leadership or decision-making roles, with insight and confidence.

The session begins by exploring how awareness is a strategic advantage and how successful conversations start with intention. You will discover how to “plate” a message, whether you are addressing problems or complaints, sharing updates or information, pitching new ideas or proposals, or raising concerns. This approach helps build trust, highlights credibility, and positions you as a thoughtful, solution-oriented leader.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Apply self, relational, and situational awareness to improve communication and outcomes
• Plate problems with solutions, frame updates with outcomes, and pitch ideas with purpose
• Deliver messages, especially sensitive ones, with clarity, structure, and professionalism

Who Will Benefit from this Program:

All Staff including Supervisors and Managers

This project is made possible by grant funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by the State of Michigan through the Library of Michigan.