Investing in Science Communication Training: The Business Case

Science communication training is a valuable investment for universities, businesses, and researchers. It enhances visibility, credibility, and collaboration, ultimately benefiting society and the environment.

Investing in Science Communication Training: the Business Case

In an era where information is abundant and attention spans are short, the ability to communicate science effectively is more important than ever. Science communication training offers numerous benefits, not just for individuals, but for institutions and society as a whole. So why is investing in science communication training a wise decision, and what are the benefits for the various stakeholders involved?

We’re glad you asked. That’s what we’ll be diving into today. (And before you say anything: yes, there is likely to be a bit of overlap, but you know what they say: tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and tell them what you’ve told them!)

Benefits for universities and higher education organisations

Science and research communication training is a shrewd move for universities and higher education organisations. Here’s why:

Amplifies Research Impact:
By training scientists to communicate effectively, universities can ensure that their research reaches a wider audience, enhancing its impact and societal relevance.

Attracts Research Funding:
Clear and compelling communication of research goals and outcomes can attract funding from diverse sources, including government agencies, private foundations, and industry partners.

Enhances Institutional Reputation:
Universities known for strong science communication can build a reputation as leaders in their field. Which leads us to the next benefit.

Attracts Top Talent:
A reputation for excellent communication can draw prospective students and top researchers who want to be part of an institution that values and supports effective communication.

Fosters Public Engagement:
Engaging the public in scientific discourse can elevate the university’s role as a community leader and knowledge hub.

Facilitates Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
Effective communication can break down barriers between disciplines, fostering innovative interdisciplinary research.

Benefits for businesses and research institutes that employ scientists and researchers

Scientists and researchers are vital in business, industry and research organisations worldwide. Training people with an academic background in the art of communication can:

Improve Stakeholder Communication:
Scientists who can effectively communicate their findings can better engage with stakeholders, including investors, customers, and the media.

Boost Innovation:
Clear communication facilitates the flow of ideas within an organisation, driving innovation and efficiency.

Enhance Market Competitiveness:
Companies that communicate their scientific achievements effectively can differentiate themselves in the market, attracting customers and investors.

Improve Regulatory Compliance:
Clear and precise communication with regulatory bodies can streamline approval processes and ensure compliance.

Support Knowledge Transfer:
Effective communication ensures that valuable knowledge is shared and retained within the organisation, aiding in continuity and growth.

Strengthen Team Collaboration:
Well-communicated ideas and findings improve internal collaboration, leading to more efficient and effective research outcomes.

What about the benefits for the scientists and researchers themselves?

Being a strong communicator as well as having the ability to share research results clearly and confidently with a range of audiences can help scientists and researchers:

Elevate Their Professional Profile:
Scientists who are effective communicators are more likely to be recognised and respected in their field, leading to career advancement opportunities.

Secure Funding and Grants:
Persuasive communication skills can make the difference in competitive funding environments, helping researchers secure grants and resources.

Expand Networking Opportunities:
Good communication opens doors to networking opportunities, fostering valuable professional relationships.

Increase Research Impact:
Clear communication can amplify the impact of a scientist’s work, making it more accessible and influential.

Feel More Connected to their Work:
Successfully communicating one’s work can be deeply fulfilling, contributing to greater job satisfaction and motivation.

Any more benefits?

As you can see, the list is long, but there are two more groups that we’d like to talk about when it comes to benefits before we take a breath.

First, by helping scientists and researchers become better at both research communication and interpersonal communication, their relationships with internal and external colleagues will get a boost, too.

Better all-round communication can result in:

  • Improved Team Dynamics:
    Effective communication is key to building strong, cohesive teams that work well together.
  • Reduced Conflict:
    Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, creating a more harmonious work environment.
  • More Collaboration:
    Teams with strong communication skills are more likely to collaborate effectively, leading to better research outcomes.
  • Increased Efficiency:
    Good communication streamlines processes and reduces the time spent on clarifying misunderstandings.
  • A Mentorship Mindset:
    Effective communication skills are essential for mentoring and training new team members, ensuring knowledge transfer and continuity.

Second, scientists and researchers who know how to talk about their work and ideas in the right way for their audiences are benefiting people and planet—or society and the environment, if you prefer—too. Strong science and research communication:

  • Informs the Public Debate: Scientists who communicate well can contribute to informed public debate on critical issues, such as climate change and public health.
  • Promotes Evidence-Based Policy: Clear communication of scientific evidence can support the development of sound public policies.
  • Enhances Public Understanding: Effective science communication helps the public understand complex scientific issues, promoting a more informed and engaged society.
  • Encourages Sustainable Practices: Communicating scientific findings on environmental issues can encourage sustainable practices and behaviours.
  • Builds Trust in Science: Transparent and accessible communication builds public trust in science and research, which is crucial for societal progress.
  • Encourages Public Engagement: Engaging science communication encourages the public to participate in scientific discussions and activities, strengthening the connection between science and society.

Phew! And we’re done. What’s the take away?

Investing in communication training for scientists and researchers offers myriad benefits for everyone involved. Sure, it takes time, and yes, it costs money, but the results are worth it.

Here at SciComm Success, we specialise in communication workshops, webinars, and coaching for scientists and researchers. Whether you want to help your researchers share their results with peers and experts, explain the importance of their work to lay people and non-experts, or work effectively with colleagues, we’d love to help.

Curious? Want to know more?

Interested in learning more about our communication workshops, training and coaching for scientists and researchers? Take a look around, or get in touch – we’d love to help.

If you want to build a ship, don't drum up people together to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.
Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Author

We believe that research matters. We also believe that good research deserves to be shared. What about you?

Curious about how our communication workshops, training programmes and coaching can help you, your research group or your institution get better about talking about your research with expert and non-expert audiences alike? Book a 30-minute call, or drop us a line.

Suzanne Whitby