The BRIEF Lab - Just Saying

Why are more and more fans these days not watching the sports they love, but still following them avidly online?

In a survey of 1,000 professionals we disclose and discuss how constant connectivity is effecting our performance. Is always being plugged in helping or hindering us? Download the report here : http://thebrieflab.com/annualreport

Nobody wants to be pushed, persuaded, swayed or sold something. Nowadays, powerful persuasion is ironically what’s killing civil discourse and making everyone tune each other out.

Writing down every word verbatim in the middle of a conversation, call or a meeting is a quick ticket to getting lost in the weeds. Listening, waiting and writing noteworthy notes is what drives big-picture thinkers.

The ugly reality is an errant word or simple comment is all it takes to send a conversation off track. Who’s to blame and how to avoid this painful problem?

What’s the hidden risk of repeating yourself? When people are easily distracted, it may be worth restating, reiterating or rephrasing. Just don’t overdo it (like I just did).

Some comments can derail conversations and send people down a rabbit hole or over the edge. There’s wisdom to know when to keep your mouth shut, no matter how tempting saying one more thing might be. Download the Bonus PDF: http://thebrieflab.com/mouthshut/

If you had to speak to an important, influential and busy executive, you’d expect brevity to be built in. Yet there’s a totally different (longer) standard when communicating with teammates, peers and subordinates. And it’s not ok.

Very few people are good listeners and the majority get no formal training to improve this valuable skill. We’ve all felt the frustration talking to someone who isn’t really listening. So why is it so hard?

In a world that’s always on, we feel drained. Ironically, we need to unplug to recharge. Finding critical moments for quiet in our day will help us gain peace, perspective and rest from the noise.

We all know people that are longwinded, confusing and unclear. But there’s also a segment of professionals that needs to speak up and doesn’t say nearly enough. Let’s explore ways for them to find their voice.

Leaders can be passionate, powerful and captivating. Nearly all of them are completely convinced that their explanations are crystal clear – and they’re not. The fallout can leave people excited, yet deeply confused.

There’s so much to gain when dealing with past pressures and pain. By embracing and sharing stories of our own struggles, conflicts, failures and frustrations, we grow as real leaders that others can trust and follow.

Kind words from a boss or client not only lift our spirits but also motivate and move us. We all need to learn to lead by improving how and when we show others succinct forms of flattery and encouragement.

You feel the frustration being stuck in a long meeting only to realize that what was covered could have been better delivered in an e-mail. Determining the core criteria will help you make the right choice.