Communications and Public Speaking: Mastering Communication with Complicated People

Title of Speech: Mastering Communication with Complicated People

Speech Abstract:

Drawing from Ryan Leak’s How to Work with Complicated People and John Maxwell’s Everyone Communicates, Few Connect. This keynote explores why people on the same project can interpret the same information in completely different ways. Attendees will learn how internal biases, unspoken expectations, and differing perspectives make people seem “complicated,” and why reacting instead of connecting often slows projects down.

By the end of this session, project managers will gain practical strategies to enhance collaboration, reduce conflict, and foster clarity and trust, even when communication feels most challenging.

Learning Objectives (3 bullets)

Explain why everyone communicates, but few connect—especially under project pressure.

Distinguish between difficult behavior and complicated dynamics in project environments.

Apply practical strategies, including curiosity and driven questions, to improve clarity and collaboration with complicated team members.

Speaker:  Mary D. McKenzie, Ph.D.

Speaker Bio:

Mary D. McKenzie, Ph.D., is a certified coach, trainer, speaker, and the founder of Mary Universal LLC. She is the author of The Transformational Power of Forgiveness and a passionate Biblical scholar. With over 23 years of experience in public accounting firms, Mary combines deep expertise in technology and leadership to help organizations optimize systems, drive operational excellence, and achieve sustainable growth. Today, she brings the same strategic mindset to coaching, mentoring, and training, guiding individuals and teams through transitions, uncovering purpose, and unlocking their highest potential.