Category: Uncategorized
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Small talk often gets dismissed as shallow, awkward, or unnecessary. In a world that values efficiency and productivity, chatting about the weather or weekend plans can feel like a waste of time. But in reality, small talk is one of the most powerful—and underrated—tools for career growth. When used well, it opens doors, builds trust,…
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Clothing has a story to tell. According to fashion critics, the clothing worn by civil rights leader Jesse Jackson told a story about his aspirations for himself and the nation. The clothing worn by first ladies tells a similar story—offering up an image of how they see themselves as well as symbolizing their fashion fluency…
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Friendships are built on trust, shared experiences, and honest communication. But even the strongest friendships may face challenges when a difficult conversation becomes necessary. Whether you’re addressing hurt feelings, a misunderstanding, or a serious concern, approaching a difficult conversation thoughtfully can strengthen the relationship without damaging it. While these talks may feel uncomfortable, they are…
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Members of the general public now turn to artificial intelligence to write their emails, news summaries, marketing copy, and even full blog posts. Tools like generative AI can produce text in seconds that comes off as polished and convincing. But that raises a question that all of us should now be asking: Did a person…
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Social laughter is a valuable interpersonal tool, and among the messages we eagerly give and receive when interacting with significant others, friends and colleagues. When used inappropriately, however, when individuals laugh at rather than with others, it has a downside. Have you ever been the subject of another’s mean-spirited laughter? Laughter Does Not Always Produce…
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Joyful laughter plays a key role in interpersonal relationships. A form of conversational punctuation, we often fail to appreciate its value and importance. Here’s what joyful laughter—a rhythmic burst of social glue–accomplishes. IT MAKES US FEEL GOOD Laughter triggers the release of “feel good” chemicals in our brains which can add years to our lives.…
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We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Communication is the single biggest factor affecting our relationships. When our communication suffers, our relationships suffer. Once we experience social isolation, we may experience both a physical and mental decline. Social deprivation and feelings of loneliness weaken our resilience, compromising our well-being. What It Means to…
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Communication skills are high on the list of what recruiters and employees look for potential hires. Among the most sought-after communication skills are: Being Able to Listen Attentively and Avoid Distractions Are you a receptive listener? Do you give the person you’re interacting with your undivided attention? Displaying Emotional Intelligence Are you able to express…
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A constructive conversation is a special kind of talk. It’s an intentional and candid dialogue with the focus placed on achieving mutual understanding. The goal of a constructive conversation is problem-solving, not winning. It’s a robust exchange of ideas, in which the parties feel heard and respected. Engaging in a constructive conversation enables people with…
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We often need to work with others to make decisions, solve problems, and accomplish specific goals. In effect, we function as a team with each of the individuals we work with performing a particular role with respect to the others and works with them, cooperating to achieve a desired end. What Actions Make a Team…
Blogging About Communication 