What do you think of when I say ‘aggressive communication’? I’m guessing you jump straight to the stereotypical image of a person who yells, bullies, threatens, and intimidates others with the aim of getting their own way. But while this is the version of aggressive communication most people picture, there’s a lot more to it […]

1. Remember, the best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour. Be prepared, don’t be surprised. Rather than expecting someone to change, hoping they don’t say or do that thing, or playing over in your mind how angry they will make you, accept that this is who they are and don’t be surprised by their […]

As a leader, receiving feedback can be challenging, even when it’s constructive. It’s natural to feel defensive or uncomfortable when faced with what you perceive to be criticism. But, as a leader, your ability to not only accept but truly welcome and learn from feedback is vital for your personal growth, team dynamics, and organisational […]

If you’ve attended training with me, no doubt you’ve heard me speak about the fact that communication underpins all human relationships – be they professional or personal. And while most of you work with me to improve your communication, leadership and self-management in a professional sphere, the skills you learn in my sessions are applicable […]

As a leader, supporting your people through change can feel relentless. It is often exhausting and frustrating. Sometimes you may not feel like you’re leading at all, rather you feel like you’re dragging, pushing, pulling, cajoling and fighting tantruming toddlers. Or like you’re stuck in one of those nightmares where you’re trying to move forward […]

Over the last few weeks, I’ve had many conversations with people who are not at their best. They’re tired, stressed and overwhelmed. Some are navigating big changes in their workplaces and job uncertainty. Others are struggling with exhaustion after a long and challenging year. Their tolerance is shot and they’re getting frustrated and snappy. To […]

Ryan, a shift supervisor, had two operators in his team who were nearing retirement. Despite them both having 18 months to go before their end dates, the two men were already in what was jokingly referred to as the “departure lounge”. They’d checked out. They were doing the bare minimum and they weren’t interested in […]

In the fast-paced and uncertain world of 2023, change seems to be accelerating on a global scale. Industries are transitioning, corporations are undergoing restructures, and the aftermath of the COVID pandemic and natural disasters has left many grappling with a mix of big emotions and reactions. In these challenging times, the need for people-focussed leadership […]

One of the most important interruptions you can make in a staff member’s day when you’re a leader is to catch them doing the right thing and then praise them for it – as specifically as possible. Reinforcing positive behaviour is an often overlooked yet powerful leadership strategy, particularly at times of high stress and […]

One of the most important interruptions you can make in a staff member’s day when you’re a leader is to catch them doing the right thing and then praise them for it – as specifically as possible. Reinforcing positive behaviour is an often overlooked yet powerful leadership strategy, particularly at times of high stress and […]