Over the years I’ve authored literally hundreds of articles on a variety of topics from finding a therapist to improving employee engagement. It’s a bit hard to find things because of the volume of material, so here’s what is available on THIS site. As we continue to centralize our web presence, more and more material…
Welcome to our 2024 Edition
Welcome to our 2024 version of The Bacal & Associates Personal and Work Store. It’s more than a store, since we’ll have tons of free material on all kinds of topics, both work, and personal development. As you can see, everything is under construction and will likely not be completed until the end of January,…
What Sets Social Media Winners From Social Media Losers?
Perhaps it’s because I’m slowly reading “You Are Not A Gadget” By Jaron Lanier, but I’m getting more interested in the changes that society may undergo as a result of social media, and in turn, I’m interested in what is held in common by people who are considered the leaders in and on social media…
Q&A: Ground Rules For Teams And Groups — Should We Have Some?
The following question is about a workplace, but the things that make teams function well apply to ANY kind of group or team, whether it’s a sports team, non-profit action group, or in the home (yes, your family is a team too). Question Our branch has been moving towards a more participatory management approach, where…
Dealing With The Human Road Runner Employee
In a previous article we discussed the plight of Mary Duncan, Director of the Income Security Branch, who had to contend with John, the human speed bump. John’s tended to shoot holes in new ideas, procrastinate, and generally hold to the status quo. If only that was Mary’s only problem person! Jennifer is a human…
Be Credible. Be Trusted. Persuade. Lead: Ten tips. Learn the gentle art of persuasion and leadership. Lead so people follow.
It doesn’t matter who you are speaking to. Whether to a group of a thousand, a radio or television audience, or one person in the privacy of your office, much depends on your ability to come across in a credible and honest fashion. Good intentions are not enough. Many the honest, open speaker has created…
What Is The Viewers Distortion Syndrome as It Applies To Social Media
How We Overestimate the Reach and Influence of Social Media Tools The “Viewers Distortion Syndrome” is a term developed by Robert Bacal to describe the situation where the number of viewers, or communication recipients is drastically OVER-ESTIMATED. It works like this. Let’s say you own a website and you count how many unique people view…
Exploring the Satir Modes: Understanding Communication Dynamics for Healthy Relationships
Introduction: Communication is the cornerstone of human interaction, shaping the dynamics of relationships, whether personal or professional. Virginia Satir, a renowned family therapist, introduced the concept of Satir Modes, offering a framework to comprehend various communication patterns and their impact on relationships. In this essay, we delve into the Satir Modes, exploring their characteristics, effects,…