CoreNet Global New York City Chapter builds communication skills through interactive public speaking workshop

Manhattan, NY The New York City Chapter of CoreNet Global hosted Back to the Basics: Public Speaking, an interactive professional development workshop designed to help corporate real estate professionals strengthen communication skills, build executive presence and become more confident, authentic and effective communicators.

Held at Teknion’s New York office on August 12, the program focused on a fundamental leadership skill: the ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a range of professional settings. The session brought together CoreNet NYC members and professionals at various career stages for hands-on exercises focused on public speaking, active listening, thinking on their feet and responding effectively in the moment.

The workshop was led by iMERGENCE, a corporate training company that uses improvisation and experiential learning to help professionals improve communication, collaboration, leadership and public speaking skills. Since 2011, iMERGENCE has worked with organizations to apply improv techniques to real-world business challenges, helping participants become more present, adaptable and confident communicators.

“This program gave our members an opportunity to step outside of their usual routines, practice these skills in a hands-on setting and take techniques they can immediately apply back to their organizations,” said Sonya Dufner, president of the New York City Chapter of CoreNet Global.

Rather than focusing solely on presentation techniques, the workshop explored the connection between presence and adaptability, two skills that are increasingly important for leaders navigating meetings, presentations, negotiations and unexpected questions. Participants used professional improv exercises to practice listening without an agenda, responding in the moment, staying composed under pressure and communicating with greater authenticity.

The program emphasized that effective communication is not a skill that leaders master once, but one that evolves as their responsibilities and audiences change. Whether presenting to the C-suite, leading a team, pitching an idea or building a client relationship, the ability to connect with an audience and adjust in real time can be just as important as the message itself.

The session reflects CoreNet NYC’s continued commitment to providing programming that addresses both the technical and human skills required of today’s corporate real estate leaders. By bringing members together for experiential learning and practical professional development, the chapter continues to create opportunities for its community to strengthen leadership capabilities and navigate an increasingly complex business environment.