Stress Awareness Month appears on our calendars every April, but what really changes when it’s over? According to the Health and Safety Executive, work-related stress, depression, or anxiety accounts for over half of all ill health cases in the UK workplace. That’s not just a wellbeing issue, it’s a…
Have you ever been in a meeting where you hesitated to share an idea, worried it might sound silly? Or avoided admitting a mistake because you feared the consequences? If so, you’ve experienced what it’s like not to have psychological safety. But what exactly is psychological safety, and why…
In today’s diverse world, inclusive writing has become essential, not just for DEI training, but for effective communication in every sector. By making our language accessible to everyone—regardless of background, ability, or experience—we create a more welcoming environment. In this guide, Understood is here to help you with some…
“Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very’; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.” – Mark Twain In today’s always-on world, we’re flooded with information. That means clear, effective communication isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. Whether…
We’re thrilled to introduce Ben Hancock, Commercial Director of Pulse Studio, as our guest blog post writer today. Understood has had the pleasure of working with Pulse Studio for many years, collaborating on some truly impactful and engaging training videos. Their expertise, creativity, and keen eye for detail have…
The business world’s equivalent of nails on a chalkboard Most of us have endured meetings where someone suggests we “drill down” on a topic or “take a deep dive.” And then there’s “ping me an email” or “let’s unpack that.” These phrases, which may have begun as shortcuts for…
In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, but what are the consequences of this technology on the mental and physical health of younger generations? Jonathan Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation, delves into the profound effects of smartphone use and social media on childhood…
The other day, a visit to the hairdresser got me thinking about customer experience and the value of our time. It made me question: How should companies handle situations where a customer is dissatisfied with their product or service? Is a refund or a redo enough to compensate for…
Want to enhance your communication skills and handle tough situations with confidence? Assertiveness is the key to expressing yourself clearly while respecting others. In this blog post, we’ll explore some essential assertiveness techniques that can transform how you communicate and boost your self-assurance. Understanding Assertiveness Techniques Assertiveness techniques are…
Effective communication drives strong relationships, sets clear expectations, and resolves conflict. Mastering communication unlocks success at every level of the workplace, including as a motivator. Drawing insights from Mastering Communication at Work: How to Lead, Manage, and Influence by Ethan F. Becker and Jon Wortmann, we’ve captured key lessons…
