Laurie Wilhelm - Articles

Popularity
377

Characteristics of Good Constructive Feedback
We often confuse feedback with criticism - probably because much of our experience with it has had more to do with what we've done wrong than what we've done right or how we could do better. This is unfortunate. Feedback should not be viewed as a personal assault or a list of errors, mistakes, or mishaps. While the content of the feedback can be negative its delivery can always be constructive. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 11/06/2008 | Communication
Popularity
273

One Step to Making Small Talk
Just the thought of small talk congers up painful memories of stilted conversations that revolved around the weather and umpteen other dreadfully boring topics. Fortunately, the key to making good small talk is simple: be interested in other people. Here are a few small-talk tips to get the conversation going. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 11/06/2008 | Communication
Popularity
334

Four Common Myths About Social Skills
Many people misunderstand what social skills are - and what they're not. Here's a quick look at a few common myths and some information on what social skills really are. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 11/06/2008 | Self Improvement
Popularity
414

Five Tips to Help You Improve Your Social Skills
The expression "the total is greater than the sum of its parts" resonates loudly with respect to social skills. Knowing what to say and how to act are basic social skills that anyone can learn. Techniques and methods are available to develop all social skills. Here are five tips on how to learn and integrate social skills into your daily life. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 10/06/2008 | Self Improvement
Popularity
218

Three Steps to a Powerful Thank You
When we express our gratitude, it's more likely that others will do helpful or thoughtful things for us. The less gratitude we show, the less others are willing to do. There are times when a plain "thank you" just isn't enough; it doesn't adequately correspond to what was received, be it in value, effort, or thought. Here are three steps on how to express a really good "thank you." Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 20/05/2008 | Communication
Popularity
60

Simple Technique for Approaching Conflict Resolution
Conflicts are a normal part of life. We interact with so many different people, in different situations that we're bound to run into difficulties. When you negotiate to secure your wants and take into account the wants of your counterpart, he will be more likely to work with you and help you achieve your goals. At the same time, he's less likely to feel defensive, aggressive or confrontational. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 17/03/2008 | Negotiation
Popularity
274

Five Steps to Giving Constructive Feedback
Giving feedback is one of the most important interpersonal skills for any manager. The purpose of constructive feedback is to provide actionable information that will make improvements and create better results. Let's say that you're giving constructive feedback to a member of your staff. Here are five steps to help you give good feedback. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 17/03/2008 | Communication
Popularity
53

What Are Good Non-Verbal Social Skills?
Good social skills are key to getting along with others. They're not about conforming, but having a healthy respect for others. They encompass a wide variety of verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Fortunately, they can be learned and you can reap the benefits in your career and personal life. Here are three basic non-verbal tips for improving interpersonal interactions. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 13/03/2008 | Communication
Popularity
62

How to Ask for Good Feedback
When requesting feedback, be specific regarding the information you need to make improvements. It's your responsibility to guide others to provide you with the "right" kind of information. Think about what you're looking for before asking so that the feedback you receive is useful and actionable. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 02/03/2008 | Communication
Popularity
71

Ten Benefits to Maintaining Good Relationships
Strong positive relationships are essential to achieving our success. We're in almost constant contact with others and we should make every contact an opportunity to strengthen our social skills and reinforce our relationships. Read
By: Laurie Wilhelm | 01/03/2008 | Self Improvement