#200 | Communicating With Courage at Work With Tatiana Kolovou

Communicating with courage at work isn’t always easy, especially when you’re faced with gossip, micromanagers, or those awkward “that’s not my job” requests. This week on Coffee With Kim, we welcomed Tatiana Kolovou—LinkedIn Learning instructor and expert on all things workplace communication—to help us get braver at work.

One thing that Tatiana brought up almost immediately was that gossip builds connections, but it can also breed toxicity when it targets folks who aren’t in the room to defend themselves. Her advice? When the conversation shifts to someone else’s expense, redirect the conversation, because nobody likes being part of the rumor mill.

We also tackled how to speak up in meetings, especially when you’re new to the company. Tatiana suggested prepping ahead and asking someone to help you out “Can you ask me this question in the meeting?”, so it feels organic. If you’re further along, keep your radar up for quieter coworkers. Make it your mission to lift one voice this week—literally add it to your to-do list and check it off, just like laundry.

And for those times when you’re asked to do something outside your comfort zone or pay grade? Frame your response around what matters to your boss. “I know accuracy is super important to you—this isn’t my specialty yet, but I can recommend X who’s done this before and has the expertise” Focus on their priorities, not just your discomfort.

These are skills you practice, not rules you check off once. Take time this week, whether it’s a LinkedIn Learning course or that podcast you keep skipping, and keep building your courage muscle. The workplace won’t get simpler, but you’ll get braver!

Timestamps:

11:50 How to deal with a gossiper at work

16:38 A question to ask when something catches you off-guard

30:22 Ways to tell your boss that a task isn’t in your wheelhouse

34:55 How to handle micromanaging

38:22 What to say when you’ve been fired and are job hunting

46:55 Homework to help you get stronger

51:10 Book and podcast recommendations from the CWK Crew

Links:

yoodli.ai

Cognizant

LinkedIn Course: Tips For Communicating With Courage at Work

If You Enjoyed Today’s Episode:

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Want To Learn More With Me?: Check out my LinkedIn learning courses here. 

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