Effective Feedback Discussions: 4 Ways to Avoid Defensiveness

Effective Feedback Discussions: 4 Ways to Avoid Defensiveness

Does feedback tend to bounce off your walls of defense? Do you shy away from giving feedback to others because of how they might react? Feedback can be gold. But, regardless of its value, it’s an inescapable part of life. So, it’s wise to learn how to give it, receive it, and respond to it well. In Communication Skills Training, James Williams shares advice on how to make the most of conversations that entail feedback. Read more to get four recommendations for breaking through defensiveness in order to have a constructive feedback discussion with anyone.

How to Prepare a Speech & Deliver It in 4 Simple Steps

How to Prepare a Speech & Deliver It in 4 Simple Steps

Have you been asked to speak in front of a group? Where should you start? Whether you’re in school or on the job, you’re likely to be called upon to make a presentation. You might be asked to make a toast at a wedding or a eulogy at a memorial service. Opportunities for public speaking abound, and having the skills to prepare and deliver a talk can set you apart and put you ahead. Keep reading to learn how to prepare a speech and deliver it.

Benefits of Speed-Reading: 4 Ways It Makes Life & Work Better

Benefits of Speed-Reading: 4 Ways It Makes Life & Work Better

How would your life change if you could read faster? What opportunities would open up? It’s probably obvious that speed-reading enables you to read more. But, it also can improve your focus on—as well as the comprehension and memory of—what you read, give you more joy and confidence in reading, and broaden your expertise. Let’s dive into the details of these benefits of speed-reading.

What Does the Labor Union Boom Mean for the Future?

What Does the Labor Union Boom Mean for the Future?

Is there about to be a labor union boom? Will the current resurgence lose steam? Despite decades of declining membership, labor unions are staging a resurgence. Some experts say that unions are well-positioned to grow their influence, with broad public support and businesses suffering labor shortages. Others contend that unions face a bumpy road ahead with fewer members and strong resistance from companies. Here’s a look at the history of labor unions, and whether or not a union boom is on the horizon.

Career Decline: Are You Professionally “Losing It” as You Age?

Career Decline: Are You Professionally “Losing It” as You Age?

At what stage are you in your career? Does it feel like you’re slowing down while the work—and your colleagues—are racing ahead? Supermodels and professional athletes aren’t the only ones whose professional attributes carry an expiration date. That’s the view of management expert Arthur Brooks, the author of From Strength to Strength. He presents the problem of professional decline and shares strategies to pivot and flourish as you get older. Read more to gain an understanding of career decline as it very well could relate to your life.

How Companies Can Adapt to a Flexible Work Environment

How Companies Can Adapt to a Flexible Work Environment

What are the benefits of a flexible work environment? How should managers and employees adapt to a culture of workplace flexibility? The opposite of a traditional workplace, a flexible organization embraces practices such as employee autonomy, generous time off, and frequent adaptations. Since industries and markets are always changing, managers and employees should embrace flexibility to keep their companies relevant.  Keep reading to learn why a flexible work environment is necessary for some companies, and how you can manage one.

How to Lead a Thinking Group: 3 Tips to Achieve Breakthroughs

How to Lead a Thinking Group: 3 Tips to Achieve Breakthroughs

Are the meetings or classes you lead designed to elicit productive thinking? What can you do to boost creativity and problem-solving? Nancy Kline has a step-by-step process for taking on the role of the listener to help someone else engage in higher-quality thinking, resulting in ideas that lead to powerful action. Her process can be adapted for group settings such as work meetings, family conferences, or classroom discussions. Continue reading to learn how to lead a thinking group that gets results.