Course Title: Assertive Communication for Business

¥54,000

Course Code: ACB101

Course Period: 2025/9/27-11/1

Day: Sat

Time: 10:00-12:50

Hours: 18

Sessions: 6

Instructional Language: English

English Proficiency Level: Advanced,High Intermediate

Location: In-Person (Tokyo)

Course Description: Meetings are a central part of professional life—but they aren’t always productive. This module provides participants with practical tools to speak up clearly and confidently, contribute effectively, and navigate challenging group dynamics. Participants will learn strategies for assertive participation, conflict management, inclusive facilitation, and working within hierarchies. Whether leading a meeting or contributing as a team member, learners will gain communication skills they can apply right away. ACB101 can be taken on its own or paired with Persuasive Business Presentations (PBP101) for a full-day intensive experience.

Learning Objectives: By the end of this module, students will be able to:
・Build assertive communication skills for formal and informal meetings.
・Learn how to contribute clearly, confidently, and respectfully in group settings.
・Develop facilitation techniques to foster inclusive and productive discussions.
・Navigate conflict, disagreement, and group dynamics professionally.

Who should take this course: Professionals who attend or lead meetings and want to communicate more assertively, especially in collaborative or cross-functional settings. Open to all experience levels.

Textbook: No required textbook

Instructor: Paul Kates

Instructor Biography: With over 30 years of experience spanning consulting, industry, and executive education, Paul Kates brings a wealth of practical and academic expertise to the field of Continuing and Corporate Education. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Paul began his career as a management consultant with Ernst & Young, later expanding into roles in auditing, accounting, and advisory services across a range of industries. He then held management positions in the consumer goods and hospitality sectors, focusing primarily on marketing and sales. Since relocating to Tokyo in 2006, Paul has become a respected educator and trainer, known for delivering practical, high-impact business education. Formerly the Director of Continuing and Corporate Education at TUJ, Paul continues to teach a range of business courses and workshops through TUJ. He has also taught at the MBA level and provides training and consulting services to organizations across Japan.