Delivering (and Receiving) Unpleasant Messages

John Bennett/ August 10, 2020/ Change, Development, Leadership, Teaching

I’ve noticed that many people are delivering (and receiving) unpleasant news more than usual — messages that were not expected, contrary to the norm or unwanted, and negatively impacting. Obviously, the current pandemic may be fueling this. The news about job loss, health conditions, layoffs, furloughs, elimination of bonuses and pay increases, possible pay cuts, different expectations, in-person school programs moving to virtual formats, students not able to go to campus for the fall term, and forecasts

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The Five Business Languages

John Bennett/ April 16, 2020/ Development, Leadership

On a recent business trip to Germany and Austria, I was reminded of how difficult it can be to communicate when you don’t speak the same language. Even the otherwise simple tasks of ordering a meal, asking for directions, and shopping can be complicated. This experience prompted me to think about how difficult it can be to communicate in business

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20 Questions to Start a Conversation

John Bennett/ March 6, 2020/ Development, Leadership

Recently an executive coaching client asked me how to break the ice with people who have achieved great things in life and who might be considered intimidating. Here are 20 questions to help get a conversation started and build a relationship (with just about anyone): How did you get into the work you are doing? What do you like most about the work you do?

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