Group Dynamic

In an earlier post, I wrote of the value of picking up the phone to ask for help, information, or other assistance from fellow professionals.

What do you do when you get that call?

Share.  Abundantly.

In my former Read the rest of this entry »

A few weeks ago, I shared an unusual incident involving an appliance installer, and the Facebook discussion after I shared it online.

After the post, there was a bit more discussion, and I also finally offered my thoughts on the issue.  This week, I’ll Read the rest of this entry »

Here’s a phrase to purge:

…that would be great.

Two reasons why:

1) It’s not specific.  If we know that people are more engaged when presented with frequent, specific, direct feedback, then we need to seek out chances to be specific. If something “would be great,” why? Will it make life easier? Help meet a deadline? Make your motives clear? Establish credibility? Save work down the road?  Nearly every use of “that would be great” can have one of these specific reasons.  Take advantage of the opportunity.

2) Office Space.  The cult classic flick Office Space has a really bad boss in it, and he ends most requests with “That’d be great.” When you use the phrase, you’re emulating one of the ickiest pop-culture bosses ever.

So, if you could avoid this phrase, that’d be great.

So, if you could avoid this phrase, you’ll provide clearer communication and engage people more.

This post will be a part of a local effort from author and change agent Danny Heggen that is worth your attention, but I share it here as an example of how Read the rest of this entry »