DanO'ConnorTraining

DanO'ConnorTraining is a Minneapolis-based consultancy that has carved out a specific niche in the public relations and communications landscape: helping organizations improve how their people talk to each other. Founded in 2000 by Dan O'Connor, the firm focuses on the interpersonal mechanics of communication—the often-messy, high-stakes conversations that can make or break workplace culture, client relationships, and team dynamics. While many PR agencies concentrate on external messaging, DanO'ConnorTraining turns the lens inward, equipping employees and leaders with the verbal skills needed to navigate conflict, reduce toxicity, and build respectful, high-functioning workplaces. Based in the United States, the firm brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to communication training that prioritizes real-world results over theoretical frameworks.

Specialist Expertise in Communication and Conflict Resolution

DanO'ConnorTraining's core strength lies in its deep specialization in communication skills, particularly around difficult interactions. The firm addresses the common workplace challenges of negativity, poor communication, and conflict—issues that often undermine even the best external PR strategies. Dan O'Connor himself is a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator who has developed a reputation for turning "soft skills" training into actionable, memorable experiences. The firm's methodology is built around a "communication system" that teaches assertive language, confidence building, and conflict management techniques. This focus makes DanO'ConnorTraining a valuable resource for organizations that need to improve internal relations, reduce workplace toxicity, and foster a culture of respect and influence. The firm's work is grounded in human resources and change management principles, ensuring that training programs align with broader organizational goals around equity, diversity, and culture.

How DanO'ConnorTraining Applies Its Expertise

The firm applies its expertise through a variety of formats designed to meet different organizational needs. DanO'ConnorTraining offers communication skills training programs that can be delivered as half-day or full-day workshops, as well as longer-term coaching engagements for individuals or teams. A key differentiator is the firm's focus on dealing with difficult people and different personality types, which includes training on assertive language for women and conflict management for leaders. The firm also produces communication skills training videos that organizations can use for ongoing learning. Dan O'Connor's role as a keynote speaker on communication allows the firm to reach larger audiences at conferences and company events, delivering high-impact messages that resonate beyond the training room. The firm's approach is particularly effective for organizations undergoing change management, as it equips employees with the stress management and engagement skills needed to navigate transitions smoothly. By combining salesforce effectiveness techniques with communication training, DanO'ConnorTraining also helps business development and client-facing teams improve their negotiation and relationship-building capabilities.

Services and Specialties

• Communication skills training programs (workshops and seminars)
• Keynote speaking on communication, dealing with difficult people, and workplace negativity
• Conflict management and negotiation training
• Assertive language training for women and underrepresented groups
• Confidence building and stress management skills
• Change management and employee relations consulting
• Salesforce effectiveness and business development coaching
• Custom communication skills training videos
• Workplace culture and toxicity reduction programs
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) communication support

Who DanOConnorTraining Works With

DanOConnorTraining is a strong fit for organizations of all sizes that are experiencing communication breakdowns, high conflict, or low morale. The firm's services are particularly valuable for human resources departments, leadership teams, and organizations undergoing restructuring or cultural change. Companies in the public relations and communications sector itself can benefit from the firm's focus on clear, respectful dialogue, as internal communication quality often mirrors external messaging effectiveness. The firm also works well with businesses that have client-facing teams—such as sales, customer service, and account management—where communication skills directly impact revenue and client retention. Nonprofits and government agencies in the Minneapolis area and across the United States have also turned to DanO'ConnorTraining for its practical, results-oriented approach. For any organization tired of generic "soft skills" training that doesn't stick, DanO'ConnorTraining offers a direct, engaging path to better conversations and stronger workplace relationships.