It has been noted that there has been a deafening silence of thought leaders on the topic of Black Lives Matter. Never one to walk away from a challenge, my initial response was pondering how to change hearts and minds, which – for me – is at the root of the problem. We consultants deal…
It may sound overly formal, however “assuming facts not in evidence,” is a common term used in the practice of law that has resonance in our daily communications. In a trial, the term involves a witness answering a question relying upon a “fact” that has yet to be established in the trial. Thus, the witness…
“Words, words, words, I’m so sick of words . . .“ sang Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady. In that work of art, the use of words and enunciation consistent with the so-called “Kings English,” were used by Professor Henry Higgins to take what he called a “gutter snipe” and transform her into a lady…
Whether we realize it – or not – and whether we intend to – or not – we communicate throughout our waking hours. Consider the following: how we dress and wear our hair; how we walk, sit, and stand; how we present ourselves—whether we make eye contact or meet another’s gaze. Do we sit with…
Virtual meetings abound in the covid-19 era. If the truth be told, I’m listening to one while writing this, with my video off. For better or for worse, I turned the video off, and kept the audio on because I wanted to hear what was being said, and was distressed by the chaotic nature of…
Thirty days ago, many of us were just learning to communicate virtually. Fast-forward one month, and we’ve all become experts! Maybe not experts; however, the comfort level has risen dramatically, and our once unscheduled days have become full of GoToMeetings, SKYPEs, Zooms, Google Chats and the like. I, for one, have three standing virtual meetings…
A reader graciously posted the comment “Diana is the Great Communicator,” on the Amazon site adjacent to my book: Consequential Communication in Turbulent Times, a Practical Guide to Leadership. I was, as the saying goes “pleased as punch.” One can never be too smug in these matters, though, particularly because last week I violated one…
Communication can be touchy to say the least in the era of Covid-19. The expression “take foot, put in mouth,” comes to mind. All of us can be too quick to retort with something we later regret. This blog tackles some tips for avoiding the “lizard brain.” Research Shows . . . That since…
Communication happens all the time, whether we know it or not, and whether we like it or not. And, whether intended or not, our communication is perceived by others – positively or negatively. Rarely is communication considered neutral by others. How do you want to be perceived? Having adopted a dog from my daughter…
The ability to delegate is a key leadership competency. Yet, many supervisors and managers on the road to becoming valuable and valued leaders fail to do so. When asked why they don’t delegate the most common reasons are: “It’s easier to do it myself.” “It takes more time to explain what I want someone else…