About Us
Verbal Defense & Influence is grounded in the communications methodology developed by the late Dr. George Thompson of the Verbal Judo Institute.
Previously known as Tactical Communications, this street-tested, proven and continually enhanced methodology for communicating under pressure has been taught to over 1 million individuals worldwide since 1983. It is the subject of four books written by Dr. Thompson. The most popular – Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion – initially published in 1993, continues to be a best seller with over 300,000 copies sold.
Verbal Defense & Influence uses Performance-Driven Instruction™, a unique approach to training that emphasizes student interaction, real-world simulations, skill practice, memorable stories and physical activity. This approach, which minimizes traditional lecture, improves retention of the taught material but, more importantly, it enhances the student’s ability to effectively perform the learned skills in their work and personal lives.
The goal of Verbal Defense & Influence training is to build the knowledge, skills and desire to be a more effective communicator in the midst of stress.
Verbal Defense and Influence trains organizations to use its methodologies to prevent and de-escalate verbal conflict, enhance cooperation and collaboration within a team, and improve customer service and sales. We also train individuals, including youth, how to stop verbal abuse, bullying and harassment and maintain mental and emotional safety in the midst of conflict.
Verbal Defense and Influence is a member of Vistelar Group, a global speaking and training organization. Vistelar brings together the very best experts in their given field – with a focus on the fundamentals of human interaction and their real-world application.
