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Unpredictability and stress are part of our professional lives, and this constant pressure makes it harder for us to assume the best about our colleagues and managers. When we choose to believe that everyone is doing their best, we create more positive work environments and prevent unnecessary conflict. By practicing empathy, communicating openly, and managing up and down with intention, we strengthen our relationships and improve our collective success.

Asking open-ended questions and genuinely listening allows us to uncover what truly matters to our colleagues and helps us navigate office dynamics more effectively. By demonstrating curiosity and empathy, we foster trust and build stronger relationships that enhance our influence. Through active and intuitive listening, we position ourselves as collaborative and savvy professionals who can anticipate challenges and align our communication to meet shared goals.

Communication shapes the opportunities available to us, and both what we say and how we say it matter in building relationships and credibility. We must recognize our default communication style and adjust it to suit different workplace situations. By practicing active listening, seeking feedback, and developing assertiveness, we can improve collaboration, avoid misunderstandings, and create more of those great opportunities.

Successfully influencing others relies more on emotional appeal, active listening, and building trust rather than exerting control or dominance. Persuasion is most effective when people believe they are making decisions themselves, which can be achieved through alignment with their values, gradual introduction of ideas, and framing arguments positively.