Year that will herald a call for more communication

The new year will see a key change - the public will demand consistent, clear and genuine communication more than ever before from government, says Scarborough-based Duncan Lewis, who has published a new book.

Part of the proceeds of ‘Speak Out! How to Make an Emotional Connection in Communication' will go to The Prince’s Trust.

Here he explains his vision for 2021.

"If there is one thing I have learned from Covid-19, it has been the need for clear, honest and authentic verbal communication.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by the myriad of ways in which people communicate with each other.

‘While academia was never my strongest point growing up, my thirst for knowledge in this subject reached a peak in 2010. As a mature student, I embarked on an exciting – if daunting – voyage of discovery by undertaking a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Management at York St John University.
Over a three year period, I became engrossed by leadership styles and, specifically, how different leaders communicate their verbal messages.

The book is essentially about my approach and methodology to what I do. My company Eaglei works in business and education with individuals, groups and teams to develop skills in communication, presentation and body language.
Although they are often referred to as soft skills, there is nothing soft about these essential skills.

Prior to the current pandemic, all our training delivery was face to face. Since March last year, we have adapted our approach and now offer the same experience online using a variety of video platforms, with clients recognising the requirement to embrace technology and use virtual platforms more effectively. In this new normal, people realise they have to up their game!"

With wide experience in the private, public and third sectors, he works around the UK, but predominantly with businesses and in education across Yorkshire.

Based in Scarborough, Duncan has lived in the town for over 30 years and been running Eaglei for seven years. ‘I am proud of the fact that over 90% of our work comes from recommendation or referral and 70% repeat business, so I hope that we are getting some things right! Making a real difference by establishing meaningful, sustainable and impactful relationships - built on trust and respect - are of paramount importance.

Duncan believes that 2021 will be akin to a computer re-boot. "With a vaccine hopefully available and soon to be widely distributed, I see 2021 as the year where the public will demand consistent, clear and genuine communication more than ever before from our government," he said.

"Personally, my hope is that people have the self-confidence to display more of their complete personality in terms of communication, both at work and home".