Changing the “Tone” of Communication at Work and Home

“Don’t you use that tone with me!” Chances are you’ve either heard it from a parent or said it to a teen. Tone carries attitude, meaning, and muscle.

Is most communication positive or negative where you work? Do people feel encouraged and upbeat—or discouraged and disengaged? Is praise free-flowing or rare? Do people value harmony over direct feedback—or struggle with straight-talk? Do people congregate in clumps or would you say the place encourages independent action and thought?

Differe...