Communicating with Tact, Candor & Credibility

When a boss criticizes your job performance, how do you respond? This practical video identifies five ineffective yet common communication styles—with actors on a stage illustrating general office situations in which they adopt the roles of “beggar,” “judge,” “commander,” “scientist,” and “escape artist”—before demonstrating a more honest and productive approach to workplace dialogue. In the alternative role of “leveler,” viewers are encouraged to use the four-point TACT process, involving (T)alking points, (A)cknowledging feelings, (C)ompromise, and (T)erminating positively. Finally, a vignette offers suggestions for handling angry and vague criticism. While the content here could possibly spur positive and practical changes in the workplace, the creative choice to use amateur actors (who are either over-the-top or appear to be reading cue cards) on a barebones stage setting underscores the fact that viewers are watching “fake” scripted interpersonal communications. Still, the helpful guidance here ultimately outweighs the production drawbacks, making this recommended, overall. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)