BEMIDJI, Minn. — Dr. Jan Guggenheimer will outline ways to achieve an effective communication essential in today’s work environment during a 9 a.m. presentation Thursday, June 4, in the Bemidji State University Center for Research and Innovation.

Registration for the program, which is part of the Regional Employer Support Network lecture series, is $50 and must be completed prior to Friday, May 29, at http://www.cri-bsu.org/calendar/cri-resn/20090604. The program is open to the public and will be held at the center’s off-campus location at 3801 Bemidji Ave. N.

During the three-hour session entitled “Crucial Conversations,” Guggenheimer will provide information on, strategies for, and an understanding of the most effective communication in all kinds of relationships and situations. It is intended to help individuals better understand their interaction style and identify roadblocks for helpful communication, even when dealing with difficult situations.

Guggenheimer says the program will benefit anyone who deals with others on a regular basis and individuals who work in a setting where relationships are critical, such as managers, directors and supervisors.

“The workshop sets a foundation in which to think about relationships and provides understanding and skills to promote effective communication,” said Guggenheimer, a professor at Bemidji State who is the clinical director for the University’s Student Center for Health and Counseling. “This includes genuine listening; direct and assertive communication; and a paradigm from which to think about working and living with others.”

Guggenheimer also frequently provides assessment, intervention and training for employees or departments on campus and as a consultant for agencies, businesses or nonprofits in the area. Prior to joining the Bemidji State faculty 19 years ago she worked in private practice, community mental health settings and alcohol and sexual abuse treatment programs.

She earned an undergraduate degree in psychology as well as a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Denver and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Argosy University.

The Regional Employer Support Network was formed after area employers expressed the need for a network of professionals involved in human resource development and management. It usually meets the first Thursday of each month with regular sessions lasting two hours. Lengthier quarterly sessions are also scheduled.

Center for Research and Innovation staff facilitate the network’s activities with support provided by North Country Health Services, North Country Business Products, Potlatch, Bi-CAP, Pinnacle Publishing, and Anderson Fabrics, and Johanneson, Inc. Individuals who wish to be added to the RESN mailing list or have questions about this program should contact the Center for Research and Innovation at (218) 755-4900; toll free, (888) 738-3224; e-mail, cri@bemidjistate.edu; or at http://www.cri-bsu.org.

FOR YOUR CALENDAR
June 4 – 9 a.m. – Bemidji State University Center for Research and Innovation hosts Bemidji Area Regional Employer Support Network presentation, “Crucial Conversations,” on effective workplace communication. Presenter: Dr. Jan Guggenheimer, director, Bemidji State University Student Center for Health and Counseling. Location: Center for Research and Innovation; 3801 Bemidji Ave. N.; Bemidji, Minn. Cost: $50; register by May 29. For information: (218) 755-4900; (888) 738-3224; http://www.cri-bsu.org.