Connective Influence: Transforming Communication in Design Firms
Learn how to foster trust, collaboration, and inclusion through intentional communication.
Continuing Education Approval
- 1 IDCEC CEU | CC-124596 (Your CEU will be reported to IDCEC on your behalf.)
Description
Strong communication is the foundation of every great design team. This session introduces the Connective Influence Model—a framework for fostering trust, collaboration, and inclusion through intentional communication. Drawing on improv-inspired strategies and people-first principles, you’ll learn how to create “brave spaces” where all voices are heard. Strengthen your ability to lead with empathy, listen actively, and spark engagement across teams. Leave equipped to build a stronger culture that supports creativity, resilience, and retention.
GATHER 2025 live program recording of session held August 18, 2025. This in-person workshop included audience activities and interactions which have been edited out as appropriate.
What You Will Learn
- Practice communication techniques such as “Hold Brave Space” and “Listen to Learn”, to build trust and foster belonging in working partnerships.
- Explore an improv mindset, including the principle of “Yes, and…,” to enhance adaptability and collaboration in work and life.
- Develop strategies to create inclusive, people-first team environments that drive engagement, creativity, and innovation.
- Gain tools and confidence to navigate change and strengthen team cohesion within the evolving design industry.
Access Period: GATHER 2025 Virtual Conference Package CEUs available to complete through February 28, 2026.
Shannon Hughes
Founder, Enlivened Studios
Shannon Hughes is an experiential facilitator and culture advisor, unlocking the potential of high-impact teams to stay, build together, and thrive. Through her practice, Enlivened Studios, she blends strategic business mentorship with a hands-on teaching style to foster inclusive leadership and people-centered cultures. Shannon specializes in leadership coaching, values exploration workshops, team-building facilitation, and culture clarity programs, helping organizations create environments where employees feel empowered and connected. With over 20 years in corporate marketing, HR strategy, and leadership development, Shannon’s work embodies connection, creativity, and inclusivity. She champions an improv mindset, believing ""Yes, and..."" fosters belonging, engagement, and meaningful collaboration.
This CEU is registered with the International Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC) for continuing education credits. This credit will be accepted by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), International Interior Designers Association (IIDA) and Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).
The content included is not deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by IDCEC of any material or construction or any method or manner of handling, using distributing or dealing in any material or product.
Questions related to specific materials, methods and services should be directed to the instructor and provider of the CEU.
This program is registered for 1 CEU value. The IDCEC class-code is: CC-124596.
Attendees who do not belong to ASID, IIDA or IDC and do not have a unique IDCEC number will be provided with a Certificate of Completion after this CEU.
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