2003-2004 IN THE NEWS ARCHIVE

Chief Learning Officer
Putting the Teeth in Learning
December 2004
Despite common trends and beliefs, corporate training programs and education efforts can change behavior. VitalSmarts' Kerry Patterson reveals the trick—implement a program with teeth and teach skills of crucial confrontations.
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CNN
November 23, 2004
Joseph Grenny, coauthor of Crucial Confrontations, appeared on CNN's American Morning, discussing how to get along with unruly family members this holiday.

The Commercial Appeal
Emotions Derail 'Crucial' Conversations
November 10, 2004
What differentiates influential employees from mediocre ones? VitalSmarts' Ron McMillan offers a theory: "The people who were most influential in an organization were the ones who were the best communicators."

The New York Times
How to Avoid a Rout at the Company Retreat
October 31, 2004
Dreading your annual "team building" retreat? VitalSmarts' Joseph Grenny says join the planning team! "Steer away from the ridiculous physical challenges," by reviewing the agenda, speaking up, and participating in the planning.

Seattle Post-Intelligencer
How to Douse the Fuse When the Political Talk Heats Up
October 30, 2004
The workplace is particularly susceptible for heated debates and low blows when it comes to talking politics and that's why most people avoid the conversation altogether, says VitalSmarts' Joseph Grenny.
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The Washington Times
Political Spats Get Personal
October 25, 2004
In a survey conducted by VitalSmarts, two-thirds of Americans say political discussions lead to "attacks and controlling behavior" and consist primarily of "name-calling and exaggeration." VitalSmarts' Joseph Grenny says you don't always have to agree with family and friends.

Today Show
October 23, 2004
Joseph Grenny, coauthor of Crucial Confrontations, appeared on NBC's Today Show, discussing how to talk politics with friends and coworkers.

Newsday
October 3, 2004
Debating in the office—Getting across your ideas at work might not get you elected, but it's an art worth learning
When emotions run high and the debate gets heated, how can you effectively get your ideas across? Check your ego at the door and don't "villainize" your opponent, says VitalSmarts' Joseph Grenny.

Utah Business Magazine
Flipping the Conversation Switch
September 2004
VitalSmarts' Ron McMillan weighs in on how to have productive communication when the stakes are highest.
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Utah Business Magazine
Celebrating Entrepreneurs
July 2004
VitalSmarts honored in the 2004 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards. Joseph Grenny says VitalSmarts add rigor and value to the fuzzy industry of training and organizational development. Crucial Conversations has helped companies worldwide quantify the results of better organization.
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T+D Magazine
Crucial Conversations
December 2003
Where are you stuck? That's where a crucial conversation is waiting. VitalSmarts' Joseph Grenny shares tips on how to communicate best when it matters most.

The Salt Lake Tribune
November 24, 2003
Parents may lose appetites over the news their kids bring home from college.

Workforce Diversity Magazine
Fall 2003
Review of books on diversity and career issues.