communication

How to Make Any Situation Better with Clear Communication

A Four-Step Formula for Solving Problems without Ego

A confused response will make any scenario worse. Here’s how the Crew Resource Management method gives you a four-step framework to avert disaster through clear communication.

3:25 read (682 words)

How to Take Criticism Like a Champ

Find the actionable message and ignore the rest

Properly given, feedback is actionable (if not humbling). When it’s awkward, you need to sort through their words to find the message.

2:45 read (555 words)

How To Handle Difficult People With Grace

Eight ways to stabilize and improve the situation

We are all connected. No matter how independent we are, we still interact with coworkers, family members, friends, neighbors, and complete strangers. These relationships range from outright pleasant to downright obnoxious. Any given relationship can vary. We’re emotional. We have good days. We have bad days. So does everybody else. When the relationship account balance […]

5:35 read (1,112 words)

5 Tools That Will Save You From Email

Picking the wrong tool can create more work than it solves

When you select the wrong tool for the job, you’ll create more work for yourself than you’re solving.

4:05 read (820 words)

One is Never As Good As Two Should Be

Differences are the Key to Synergy and Creativity

LEGO pieces are fun because of the variety. Don’t limit yourself to building with just one kind of brick.

2:45 read (542 words)

How to Help Someone Change with PIE

A Three-Step Framework to Give Constructive Feedback

The classic Criticism Sandwich may not be that effective. Here’s a three-step framework to help change someone’s behavior that won’t undermine your influence.

2:45 read (553 words)

Talk to the Duck

Let a little yellow friend help you find the answers to the tough questions

One of the most useful programming techniques I’ve picked up is one they definitely didn’t cover in college. It can help you sort out all kinds of problems.

2:40 read (539 words)

Six Email Signature Mistakes that Might Send the Wrong Message

How to leave a better impression with every correspondence

Email is an important part of how we communicate. Your signature is at the end of every message you send. Be sure it isn’t sending the wrong message about you.

3:35 read (724 words)