Communication Psychology and HR – with Gerhard Ohrband

We are judged in every interaction —not for who we are “deep down,” but for the role we take on in that moment.Clarity about roles comes before authenticity and long before techniques.Without it, even good intentions can lead to poor outcomes.#communication #roles #leadership #perception #authenticity#personaldevelopment

Many people believe a communicationcoach must be a perfect communicator—or that coaching means being told exactlywhat to say. In reality, communication is messier, more human, and far moresituational. Drawing on a personal failure from my own professional practice, Iexplore why real progress in communication starts with feedback, courage, andaddressing what usually remains unsaid.#communication #softskills#leadershipcommunication #businesscommunication #communicationtraining#coaching #humanadvantage #learningfromfailure

In a world obsessedwith speed and technology, are we really getting better at listening,negotiating, and connecting? Explore why human skills—especiallycommunication—might be the real differentiator in today’s professional life,and why actively improving them is more important than ever.#CommunicationSkills #SoftSkills #HumanConnection #Empathy #ProfessionalGrowth#PodcastEpisode

It’s early January 2026. More than five years have passed since I publishedmy last book.In the meantime, the world of communication has changed — and not necessarilyfor the better.We live in an age of lifehacks, quick formulas, and promises like “say thisand you’ll get what you want.” At the same time, in my work with teams andleaders, I see something troubling: empathy is declining, rigidity is increasing,and communication is becoming more technical — and less human.By October this year, I plan to publish a new book on communicationpsychology titled:Adequate Business Communication –From Fake and Ineffective to Real and ConvincingThis book is not about tricks, scripts, or “perfect phrases.”It’s about fit. Context. The other person. And yourself.One of the first chapters — which you’re about to read here in anot-yet-fully-polished version — starts with a simple but uncomfortablequestion:Does perfect communication exist?And if it doesn’t, what do we do with our obsession with perfection?In this excerpt, I explore:·       why “speaking correctly” is not enough,·       why the same words can be brilliant in onesituation and disastrous in another,·       and why good communication is not about beingunfiltered-authentic, but about being appropriately authentic.The text isn’t fully proofread yet. That’s intentional. I’m sharing it as aninvitation to reflection and dialogue.Your feedback will tell me whether this book is heading in the right direction— or whether it needs adjustment.👉 This is where the journey of the newbook begins.#communication #communicationpsychology #leadership #businesscommunication#empathy #professionaldevelopment #newbook

I know this may be controversial, and some people might feel uncomfortableor even angry hearing this. But it’s worth asking: what happens when hiring,leadership, or team decisions are influenced by zodiac signs, numbers, or“energetic profiles”? In an increasingly complex world, shortcuts feeltempting. But what does science actually say — and what are the hidden costs ofputting people into neat but fictional boxes?#HR #psychology #numerology #astrology #leadershipdevelopment #decisionmaking#pseudoscience #workplaceculture #peoplemanagement #communication

Communication mistakes are far more common than we realize — and most ofthem are unintentional. When we respond with openness instead of punishment, weincrease psychological safety and strengthen teamwork. Here are some practicalideas for handling your own communication errors more effectively.#communication #leadership #psychology #personaldevelopment#workplaceculture #business #teams

We’re surrounded by AI tools that make communication feel safer and easier.But what happens to our real-life relationships when we remove allinterpersonal risk? Can fluency replace the ability to truly listen, feel, andunderstand another human being?#CommunicationPsychology #InterpersonalSkills #AIandHumanity#DigitalCommunication #RealConversations #LanguageLearning #RelationshipSkills#HumanConnection

Have you ever noticed how quickly weput people into boxes?“He’s an introvert.” “She’s a born leader.”It feels efficient — but what do we lose when we start believing our ownlabels?In business, labelling can feel likeclarity, but it often distorts reality.Because behind every “type” is a person — and behind every person, a story thatdoesn’t fit neatly into categories.#Leadership #HR #Communication#Psychology #OrganizationalCulture #Diversity #PeopleDevelopment #Mindset#WorkplaceCulture #Coaching

Discover the top mistakes made byjob interviewers and how to avoid them to ensure a fair and effective hiringprocess. Learn why structured interviews are a game-changer and how biases likethe beauty bias can affect your decisions. Tune in to find out how you canimprove your recruitment process and attract the best talent.#JobInterviews #HiringMistakes #StructuredInterviews #RecruitmentTips #HR#BiasInHiring #JobInterviewTips #HumanResources #HiringProcess#CandidateExperience

Is being authentic always the right approach? In the corporate world, where do we draw the line between authenticity and playing a role? Check out the discussion on how we balance our inner complexity and outer behavior.#Authenticity #CorporateCulture #CommunicationSkills #ProfessionalGrowth #InnerComplexity #PersonalValues #TrustBuilding

Praise can be a powerful tool formotivation, but did you know it can also have unintended consequences? Whetherit's making someone more vulnerable to future challenges or even backfiring ina conversation, the way we offer praise matters. In both personal andprofessional settings, it's essential to consider how and why we give feedback.#CommunicationPsychology #Feedback#Motivation #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #GrowthMindset #WorkplaceCulture#PsychologyInBusinessReferencesBrehm, J. W.,& Brehm, S. S. (1981). Psychologicalreactance: A theory of freedom and control.Academic Press.Müller, C. M., & Dweck, C. S.(1999). Praise and personality: Implications for the development ofcompetence and motivation. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology,77(4), 868-879. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.77.4.868Schulz von Thun, F. (2008). Miteinander reden von A bis Z: DiePsychologie der Kommunikation (1st ed.). RowohltTaschenbuch Verlag.

Conflict doesn’t always look the way we expect it. Just because there’s no visible tension, doesn’t mean everything is fine. In my latest episode, I explore how unspoken misunderstandings and hidden conflicts can silently affect your team’s engagement, collaboration, and retention. It’s time to rethink what “conflict” really means in the workplace. #ConflictManagement #HR #TeamDynamics #EmployeeEngagement #OrganizationalCultureReferencesAllen, D. G.,& Griffeth, R. W. (2001). Employeeturnover and retention: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Applied Psychology, 86(5), 1134-1151.https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.86.5.1134De Dreu, C. K. W., & Gelfand, M.J. (2008). Conflict in the workplace: A dynamic perspective. InternationalJournal of Conflict Management, 19(3), 210-232.https://doi.org/10.1108/10444060810877517Fisher, R., Ury, W., & Patton,B. (2011). Getting to yes: Negotiating agreement without giving in (3rded.). Penguin Books.Jehn, K. A. (1995). A multimethodexamination of the benefits and detriments of intragroup conflict. AdministrativeScience Quarterly, 40(2), 256-282. https://doi.org/10.2307/2393395Thomas, K. W. (1992). Conflictand conflict management: Reflections and update. Journal of OrganizationalBehavior, 13(3), 265-274. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.4030130307

Ever had second thoughts after a tough conversation?That nagging “I should have said…” feeling usually isn’t about wit orluck—it’s about preparation. Psychologist Friedemann Schulz von Thun shows howour Inner Team can make or break communication.Which team members show up when youspeak—and which ones are missing?👉 Discover how to train your Inner Team and walk into yournext conversation prepared.#CommunicationSkills#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #Psychology #SelfAwareness#PublicSpeakingReferencesBöckler, A.,Bräuer, J., Grosse Holtforth, M., & Ehrenthal, J. C. (2020). Know thy selves: Learning to understand oneself increasesthe ability to understand others.Frontiers inPsychology, 11.https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.571746 PMCHodgdon, H. B.,van der Kolk, B., Southwell, K., Hrubec, T., & Schwartz, R. C. (2021). Internal Family Systems Therapy for Posttraumatic StressDisorder Among Survivors of Multiple Childhood Trauma. Journal of TraumaticStress, 34(3), 652-662. https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2021.2013375Tandfonline+1Schulz von Thun, F. (1998). Miteinander reden 3: Das Innere Teamund situationsgerechte Kommunikation: Kommunikation, Person, Situation. Reinbek bei Hamburg, Germany:Rowohlt. PMC+1Schwartz, R.C., Sweezy, M. (2019). InternalFamily Systems Skills Training Manual: Trauma-Informed Treatment for Anxiety,Depression, PTSD & Self-Esteem.Oakland, CA: Internal Family Systems Institute. IFS InstituteVan der Kolk, B., Hodgdon, H. B.,& Schwartz, R. C. (2024). Online Group-Based Internal Family SystemsTreatment for PTSD: Feasibility and Acceptability of the Program. Journal ofClinical Psychology, 80(8), 1374-1390. PMC

Ever notice a lively conversation inside your own mind—each voice nudging you in a different direction? Mastering these inner voices is the first step to clearer, more authentic communication with the world.#InnerDialogue #SelfAwareness #CommunicationPsychology #InnerTeam #LeadershipFromWithinReferencesLópez-Jiménez, A. M., &Rodríguez-Testal, J. F. (2016). Relationship between inner dialog andideas of reference and the mediating role of dissociation. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology.  https://doi.org/10.1111/sjop.12344Oleś, P. K., & Brinthaupt, T. M. (2020). Types of inner dialogues andfunctions of self-talk: Comparisons and implications. Frontiers inPsychology, 11, 227. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00227 Van der Ven, E., & Peled-Avron, L. (2015). Bringing the “self” intofocus: Conceptualising the role of self-experience for understanding andworking with distressing voices. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 1129. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01129 Schulz von Thun, F. (2003). Miteinanderreden 3: Das innere Team und situationsgerechte Kommunikation. Reinbek bei Hamburg: Rowohlt.

Public speaking is rehearsed, scripted, and predictable. But what about theconversations we can’t plan—the ones that take unexpected turns, stir emotions,or shift roles on the spot? In this episode of The Unscripted Challenge, we explore why real-life conversationsoften feel harder than stepping onto a stage—and how you can navigate them withmore confidence.ReferencesAfifi, W. A., & Weiner, J. L. (2004). Toward a theory of motivatedinformation management. CommunicationTheory, 14(2), 167–190. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2885.2004.tb00310.xKaneko, A. (2024). Communication apprehension in the workplace: The role ofposition and facilitation skills. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly. Advanceonline publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906241295696Lillie, T., Venetis, M. K., &Chernichky-Karcher, S. (2023). Resilience communication mitigates thenegative relational effects of topic avoidance: Evidence from parentalcaregiving and COVID-19 pandemic contexts. Personal Relationships, 30(4), 1252–1273. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.12508McCroskey, J. C., Beatty, M. J., Kearney, P., & Plax, T. G. (1985). Thecontent validity of the PRCA-24 as a measure of communication apprehensionacross communication contexts. CommunicationQuarterly, 33(3), 165–173. https://doi.org/10.1080/01463378509369595

Every team has a “difficult person”—the colleague who always says no, challenges every idea, or seems impossibly negative. But what if that behavior actually reflects a hidden virtue? In this episode, we explore how recognizing the good in the bad can transform difficult conversations and bring more balance to your team.ReferencesBaege, M. (2018). Bowen family systems theory. Vermont Center forFamily Studies. Retrieved fromhttps://vermontcenterforfamilystudies.org/about/bowen-family-systems-theory/Brown, J., & Errington, L. (2024). Bowen family systems theory andpractice: Illustration and critique revisited. ResearchGate. Retrievedfrom https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jenny-Brown-2/publication/381014808_Bowen_family_systems_theory_and_practice_Illustration_and_critique_revisited/links/66829e8e0a25e27fbc1a1f34/Bowen-family-systems-theory-and-practice-Illustration-and-critique-revisited.pdfSchulz von Thun, F. (1989). DasWerte- und Entwicklungsquadrat. Schulz von Thun Institut. Retrievedfrom https://www.schulz-von-thun.de/die-modelle/das-werte-und-entwicklungsquadratThe Bowen Center for the Study of the Family. (n.d.). Introduction toBowen theory. Retrieved from https://www.thebowencenter.org/introduction-eight-conceptsVerywell Mind. (2022, January 10). What is family systems therapy?.Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/family-systems-therapy-definition-techniques-and-efficacy-5213785

We often hear that growth begins only outside our comfort zone. But the truth is more nuanced: sustainable progress happens in the learning zone, not when we’re thrown into panic. In this episode, I’ll share why keeping some areas of stability is vital if we want to grow boldly in others.#ComfortZone #LearningZone #PersonalGrowth #CommunicationSkills#PsychologicalSafety #Coaching #LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience#GrowthMindset #SelfDevelopmentLiteratureBodie, G. D. (2010). A racing heart,rattling knees, and ruminative thoughts: Defining, explaining, and treatingpublic speaking anxiety. Communication Education, 59(1), 70–105.https://doi.org/10.1080/03634520903443849Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow:The psychology of optimal experience. New York: Harper & Row.McKenzie, M. (2003). Beyond “theoutward bound process”: Rethinking student learning. Journal of ExperientialEducation, 26(1), 8–23. https://doi.org/10.1177/105382590302600104White, A. (2009). From comfort zoneto performance management: Understanding development and performance. Journalof Management Development, 28(5), 414–427.https://doi.org/10.1108/02621710910955985Yerkes, R. M., & Dodson, J. D.(1908). The relation of strength of stimulus to rapidity of habit‐formation. Journalof Comparative Neurology and Psychology, 18(5), 459–482.https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.920180503

"Conflict isn’t always destructive—in fact, when harnessed correctly, it can sharpen ideas, drive clarity, and ignite innovation. Whether through rigorous debate or structured task-related tension, the right kind of conflict—with psychological safety and respectful handling—can transform discord into discovery."#ConflictProductivity #InnovationThroughDebate #PsychologicalSafety #GrowthMindset #Leadership

Have you ever replayed aconversation and wished you could hit “undo”? We all have moments where wordsdon’t land as we hoped — but what if those regrets could become your greatestteachers? This episode dives into five practical strategies to turncommunication misfires into powerful growth opportunities. Learn how shiftingyour mindset and analyzing your patterns can transform regret into resilience.#CommunicationSkills #GrowthMindset #EmotionalIntelligence#LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #ConversationTips #SelfAwareness#Resilience #PersonalDevelopment #FeedbackCultureBooks:·       Carol Dweck: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success·       Maxwell Maltz: Psycho-CyberneticsScientific Articles by Carol Dweck:1.     Dweck, C. S. (2006). "Mindsets and Human Nature: PromotingChange in the Middle East, the Schoolyard, the Corporation, and theClinic." AmericanPsychologist.2.     Dweck, C. S. (1986). "Motivational processes affectinglearning." AmericanPsychologist.3.     Dweck, C. S., &Leggett, E. L. (1988). "A social-cognitive approach to motivationand personality." PsychologicalReview.

What’s more terrifying than spidersor heights? For many professionals, it’s public speaking.In the latest episode of myCommunication Psychology podcast, we tackle the roots of stage frightand explore what actually works to overcome it — according to science.🚩 Why do we feel speech anxiety, even when we’re prepared?🧠 What role does temperament play?🛠️ And how can you train your mind and body to thriveon stage instead of freeze?Featuring insights fromcommunication psychology, neuroscience, and practical techniques forprofessionals, trainers, and leaders.🎧 Listen now — and learn how to turn fear into focus.#PublicSpeaking #StageFright#CommunicationPsychology #Podcast #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligenceTop of FormBottom of FormRecommended reading:Ayres, J. (1997). Explainingcommunication apprehension: A communication competence perspective. In J.A. Daly, J. C. McCroskey, J. Ayres, T. Hopf, & D. M. Ayres (Eds.), Avoidingcommunication: Shyness, reticence, and communication apprehension (2nd ed.,pp. 55–88). Hampton Press.Beatty, M. J., McCroskey, J. C.,& Heisel, A. D. (1998). Communication apprehension as atemperament-based construct. Communication Monographs, 65(2),197–219. https://doi.org/10.1080/03637759809376447Bodie, G. D. (2010). A racingheart, rattling knees, and ruminative thoughts: Defining, explaining, andtreating public speaking anxiety. Communication Education, 59(1),70–105. https://doi.org/10.1080/03634520903443849Dwyer, K. K., & Davidson, M. M.(2012). Is public speaking really more feared than death? CommunicationResearch Reports, 29(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.1080/08824096.2012.667772Stein, M. B., Walker, J. R., &Forde, D. R. (1996). Public-speaking fears in a community sample:Prevalence, impact on functioning, and diagnostic classification. Archivesof General Psychiatry, 53(2), 169–174. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.1996.01830020093010