Communication Archives

The Benefits of Being Open-Minded: An Open-and-Shut Case

People say you should be open-minded — accepting of people from diverse backgrounds, listening without judging, and considering all sides of an issue. Even though that’s sensible in theory, some folks find it difficult in practice. That’s troubling because having an open mind is not only the right thing to do, it’s beneficial in ways… [Read More]

14 Things You Can’t Afford to Take for Granted

By Frank Sonnenberg 2 Comments

9 Barriers to Effective Communication

By Frank Sonnenberg 6 Comments

Did you ever spend time with someone and feel as though they weren’t there? You may have occupied the same room, but you just didn’t connect. Whether this is an isolated occurrence or the hallmark of that relationship, it could be a warning sign of trouble ahead. Unfortunately, broken relationships don’t happen in a vacuum. Many… [Read More]

Prejudice: “All” Is an Ugly Word

By Frank Sonnenberg 16 Comments

All cops are _____. All Wall Street bankers are _____. All Mexicans are _____. All liberals are _____. You fill in the blank. Actually, please don’t. “All” is an ugly word. It’s naked prejudice. In the past few years, I’ve seen too many people assign labels to groups and call them derogatory names. It’s easy to… [Read More]

Live with Honor and Integrity

By Frank Sonnenberg 21 Comments

Some people try to appear honorable in order to win the admiration of others. Although this may be true, they have it all backward. The real benefit of being honorable isn’t in how others view you, but rather, in how you view yourself. When you live with integrity, you don’t have to worry about inconsistencies,… [Read More]

Building Bridges: We’re In This Together

By Frank Sonnenberg 6 Comments

Criticism Is Not Feedback

By Frank Sonnenberg 6 Comments

Feedback is a vital element of our personal and professional development. But in order for input to have tangible benefits, two principles must be followed. First, it must be supportive. The fact is, there’s a huge difference between feedback and criticism. Feedback is helpful and constructive; criticism is hurtful and damaging. Second, input alone won’t amount to anything if… [Read More]