Communication

Spend enough time in big American organizations and you may start talking like a know-nothing robot. In the absence of straight talk, everyone babbles, but no one understands.

To build an argument, you can’t just stick to generalities. You need to support your assertion with facts or evidence that resonates with the individual or group you want to persuade.

At sundown on Sept. 18, the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah begins. Ten days later comes Yom Kippur. This period represents a time for Jews to reflect on and repent for their wrongs. Regardless of your faith, September marks a good time to seek forgiveness from people in your workplace whom you have mistreated.

You repeatedly articulate goals and point workers in the right direction. They know what’s at stake and they understand your vision. They just don’t know what to do next. Beware of communicating on a macro level.