perception Archives - Diana Peterson-More

“Focus on the Issue, Situation or Behavior, Not the Person:” How a Zenger Miller Basic Principle Informs Consequential Communication

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More July 25, 2022 Leave a comment

While employed as the Human Resources Director at Times Mirror, a former holding company for a number of media groups – newspapers, television stations, radio stations, magazines, book companies, and training companies – I had the good fortune of becoming a certified Zenger Miller facilitator, which the company considered the lead Times Mirror training organization…

(How to Avoid) Assuming Facts Not in Evidence

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More June 16, 2020 Leave a comment

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…

Listening, Asking & Telling: Communication Skills for Leaders

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More May 20, 2020 Leave a comment

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…

Walking the Dog: Communication Etiquette

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More February 10, 2020 Leave a comment

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 Use of Superlatives and Absolutes in Everyday Communication

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More December 3, 2019 Leave a comment

Before becoming an organizational development and leadership consultant, and while in my corporate career, I relied upon others working in this important field for sage advice. One can liken these practitioners to “workplace psychologists,” offering must-have leadership tips, whether through one-on-one coaching or team building, all with the aim of improving workplace relationships, motivation and…

Diversity and Communication: The Fork in the Road

BlogBy Diana Peterson-More September 17, 2019 Leave a comment

Diversity is a wonderful thing. The benefits abound: a McKinsey study found that diverse boards of directors generate better returns and more money; a Tuft’s study concluded that diverse groups uncover more angles when serving on mock juries (which underscores the value all the more so); a combined study by Columbia, MIT, University of Texas-Dallas…