Approaching a Colleague
Tip of the WeekTo approach a respected colleague to act as your mentor, start out with a specific request on a small issue. For example, instead of directly asking, “Would y...
Secret Information
Tip of the WeekGuard against the temptation to correct rumors or divulge information when you’ve been entrusted with confidential information. For example, assume you’re p...
Increase Readability
Tip of the WeekLook for opportunities to increase the readability of your written messages. Specifically, use: short paragraphs, headings to clarify the organization, bullets ...
Oral Presentations
Tip of the WeekPosition information you want to emphasize in the beginning or end of your oral presentation or written communication. For example, to deemphasize negative info...
Bottom Line
Tip of the WeekIf your audience expects bad news or prefers a “bottom line” approach, present the bad news along with a brief rationale upfront. For example, to relay th...
Reasons Before News
Tip of the WeekWhen conveying bad news, if your audience is likely to be surprised and seriously disappointed, present the reasons before the “news.” For example, instea...
Stay Positive
Tip of the WeekWhen conveying bad news, avoid such words as “mistake”, “problem”, “unfortunately”, “impossible”, and discuss what can be done rather than what ...
Depersonalizing the Message
Tip of the WeekWhen conveying negative news, depersonalize the message. For example, instead of saying, “You failed to notice…”, consider “May I point out that…”...
Reframing Your Discussion
Tip of the WeekWhen you’re engaged in a conversation that is heading in a destructive direction, consider reframing the discussion to get it back on course. Reframing means ...
Alliances
Tip of the WeekForge alliances with other departments that are critical to your success. A starting point might be to ask for a tour of the other departments or hold a “sh...