Why is listening such an important skill at work? Because people don’t need more talking — they need to feel heard. When people feel listened to, they are more engaged, more open and more willing to contribute. When they don’t, communication breaks down, trust disappears and problems escalate. Listening isn’t just about hearing words. It’s…
Many organisations say they want better communication, but communication problems often continue even when teams are meeting regularly, sharing updates and talking frequently. That can feel frustrating because people may believe they are already communicating enough. The challenge is that communication is not simply about how often people speak. It is about whether people genuinely…
Communication is often described as an important workplace skill, but in reality it sits underneath almost everything people do at work. Communication influences leadership, teamwork, trust, collaboration, performance, customer relationships and behaviour change. Everything starts with communication. Organisations sometimes focus heavily on systems, processes and technical capability, yet many workplace challenges have communication sitting somewhere…
Human skills are the behaviours and personal abilities that influence how we communicate, connect and work with other people. They include skills such as communication, listening, emotional intelligence, empathy, collaboration, adaptability and relationship building. They are often described as “soft skills”, but that description can be misleading. Human skills are not soft. In many workplaces…
As we approach the final quarter of 2024, now is the perfect time to start thinking ahead. Reflecting on the past year and setting SMART leadership goals for 2025 is crucial for any team leader aiming for real growth and success. This isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about setting enduring goals that foster development and…
By Debra Stevens When I first encountered the concept of a growth mindset, it completely changed how I approached leadership, both in my own development and in coaching others. I’ve witnessed firsthand how adopting a growth mindset can transform a workplace from a place of rigidity and fear of failure into an environment bursting with…
Having influence at work is so important and you should look around you, who are the influencers where you work? How do they go about it? Take note because they will be your unknowing teachers, you may notice that they’re the people who are more likely to get promoted and using their influence at work…
Influence at work is not about authority or title; it’s about the ability to sway opinions, inspire change, and drive outcomes. But how does one cultivate such a skill? This week, we delve into practical strategies that can help professionals at all levels increase their influence, foster better relationships, and lead more effectively. Listening and…
How to improve your influencing skills for better leadership In the modern workplace, influencing skills are an essential cornerstone of successful leadership and collaboration. But why is influence at work needed? My blog post this week takes a closer look into the essence of influence, uncovering its role in creating successful outcomes, driving innovation, and…
Discovering the Heart of Transformation with Debra Stevens , Speaker, Trainer, Coach and Author In the realm of professional Coaching Training and development, it’s a rare and precious thing to encounter someone who not only brings a wealth of expertise to the table but also embodies a profound sense of care and commitment to the…
