Course 2026-2027 a.y.

This course includes theoretical modules focused on (1) persuasive leadership, (2) presentation and storytelling, and (3) public speaking, as well as a main in-class activity in which students engage in teamwork to prepare a presentation and later deliver a speech in front of the class.

• Understand the role of persuasion in leadership.
• Understand the principles of effective public speaking.
• Explain the role of soft skills for sustainability experts.

·  Work more effectively in teams.

·  Apply storytelling techniques to sustainability topics.

• Lectures
• Collaborative Works / Assignments

As this course is based on a learning-by-experience approach and its main component is in-class activity, attendance is strongly encouraged. A non-attending mode is available for those unable to reach the attendance requirement.

Attending students are evaluated based on their involvement in class sessions. To pass the course, attending students must (1) meet the attendance requirement and (2) actively participate in in-class activities, including contributing as a collaborative team member. If either of these requirements is not met, the student will be considered non-attending.

Non-attending students are evaluated based on a written exam designed to evaluate their knowledge, understanding, and ability to apply the concepts covered in the non-attending readings on (1) persuasive leadership, (2) presentation and storytelling, and (3) public speaking. The exam consists of 16 multiple-choice questions, each with 4 answer options, and is graded on a pass/fail basis. To pass the exam, students must correctly answer at least 9 of the 16 questions.

Course slides and other materials distributed in class.

1.     Abrahams, M. (2023). How to shine when you’re put on the spot. Harvard Business Review, 101(5), 139-143.

2.     Berinato, S. (2019). Data science and the art of persuasion. Harvard Business Review, 97(1), 76-85.

3.     Frei, F. X., & Morriss, A. (2023). Storytelling that drives bold change. Harvard Business Review, 101(6), 62-71.

4.     Grant, A. (2021). Persuading the unpersuadable. Harvard Business Review, 99(2), 131-135.

5.     Grob, K. & Lee, V.S. (2025). It’s Time to Update How Your Company Talks About Sustainability. Harvard Business Review, June 2025.

6.     Hill, L. A., Tedards, E., Wild, J., & Weber, K. (2022). What makes a great leader. Harvard Business Review,100(1), 40-47.

7.     Ibarra, H., & Lineback, K. (2012). What’s your story? Harvard Business Review, 90(1-2), 64-73.

8.     Peterson, S. J., Abramson, R., & Stutman, R. K. (2020). How to develop your leadership style. Harvard Business Review, 98(6), 86-93.