Sometimes self-deprecating humor can be helpful in establishing connections… most of the time, it backfires. Here’s how to tell what’s best. I generally advise against using self-deprecating humor. Most of the time, it does not convey confidence and credibility. …

With these three attributes, you can navigate life with grace and charisma. About a month ago, I lost my mentor and dear friend, Mary Kogen. Mary was, on the surface, my college piano and pedagogy teacher. She taught me technique and chord progressions, how to break the binding of your…

Many elements of nonverbal communication can be picked up over video, but two key components are almost entirely lost. Here’s how to incorporate them for better communication. How much of your day is spent in video meetings? Over the past two years, video calls have likely become standard fare in…

In my last article, I wrote about how to manage your anger at work. But (just a wild guess here) it’s not like you’re the only one who ever gets angry. …

How do you keep your cool and still stand up for yourself in the midst of infuriating workplace circumstances or colleagues? Here’s how… What gets you riled up at work? I conducted an informal survey awhile back on this topic. I’ll list some of the most common answers below, but…

…and how to avoid them. “Some of my coworkers are so clueless,” a coaching client complained recently. “I get accused of being condescending when I explain things. How do I give them the info they need without sounding obnoxious? I’m not trying to be a jerk.” If you have (or perhaps more importantly, if you…

… and what to do about it. While waiting for a drink at a coffee shop, I noticed two women in conversation. I was mostly staring off into space, but then something caught my attention. I couldn’t hear the discussion; I could only see its effects. The two had been chatting pleasantly and then suddenly one of…

Ignoring people is rude… usually. Here are three times when it’s the most appropriate and helpful response, and how to do it respectfully. Your undivided attention is a priceless and meaningful gift. …

The workplace has changed for good… or at least, permanently. Trust still requires the same three elements it always has, but how do you convey those remotely? Here’s how. “Our leadership team is floundering,” the woman told me over a video call. “We’re hybrid right now — everyone works part-time…