In the professional sphere, uncertainty is a constant. Sometimes, the scenarios can be especially daunting, like the impending layoffs that might be just around the corner. In such stressful situations, two psychological approaches – Stoicism and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – can help navigate the choppy waters. Stoicism, an ancient philosophy, teaches acceptance of the … Continue reading embracing uncertainty at work: A stoic and CBT approach
Tag: customer service
BLUF for escalations within IT technical support
In the bustling world of IT support, time is often of the essence. Rapid, efficient communication can mean the difference between a swiftly resolved issue and an escalating problem. One method that can aid in achieving this efficiency is BLUF – a military communication principle standing for 'Bottom Line Up Front'. Decoding BLUF In the … Continue reading BLUF for escalations within IT technical support
what is system 1 and system 2 thinking?
Have a moment to ponder about the brain, one of the most intricate organs nature has crafted. It facilitates every thought, every decision, and every action. But did you know that, according to the Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman, our thinking can be divided into two main systems? Named simply as System 1 and System 2, … Continue reading what is system 1 and system 2 thinking?
technical support dilemmas: a cognitive perspective
Dealing with a high-pressure technical support scenario is never a straightforward task. It becomes even more complicated when the responsibilities and complaints of different roles overlap. A customer is upset about the delay in resolving their issue; a business-facing colleague insists that the customer needs to be notified about business challenges and work backlogs. To … Continue reading technical support dilemmas: a cognitive perspective
dichotomy of control: the third one
Life often presents challenges that seem beyond one's power, which can stir up feelings of frustration and helplessness. In such times, it's beneficial to step back and revisit a fundamental principle from Stoic philosophy - the Dichotomy of Control. A concept simple yet profound, it helps individuals navigate complexities of life. We are adding one … Continue reading dichotomy of control: the third one
dealing with difficult customers
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers invaluable strategies for dealing with challenging interactions, particularly within the realm of technical support. The following discussion provides insight into applying CBT principles to communicate effectively with uncooperative customers during technical troubleshooting. Understanding Resistance Resistance to suggestions can stem from multiple sources. The customer may be experiencing cognitive distortions such … Continue reading dealing with difficult customers
the power of “no” in troubleshooting
'No' is an unexpected powerhouse in the realm of technical troubleshooting. Often perceived negatively, 'no' can serve as a launch pad for clear communication, solution-oriented dialogue, and efficient problem-solving. Understanding 'No' in Technical Troubleshooting In technical troubleshooting, 'no' is more than just a refusal or rejection. It could signal a misalignment between perceived and actual … Continue reading the power of “no” in troubleshooting
applying the CBT ABC model in technical support
The ABC Model, a core principle of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), provides a structured approach to understanding and managing our reactions to stressful situations. It stands for Activating Event (aka Triggers), Beliefs, and Consequences. In a technical support context, this model can enhance problem-solving, improve communication, and boost customer satisfaction. In this blog post, we … Continue reading applying the CBT ABC model in technical support
power of BLUF in technical support
In an era where time is a precious commodity, clear and concise communication has never been more critical. Enter BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front), a military communication principle that's incredibly effective in conveying information swiftly and efficiently. Although its roots lie in military communication, BLUF can be applied in various professional settings, including technical support. … Continue reading power of BLUF in technical support
what are cognitive distortions in technical support
Cognitive distortions, a concept central to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are inaccurate thoughts that usually reinforce negative thinking or emotions. These distorted perspectives can significantly influence one's approach to problem-solving, especially in technical domains. This blog delves into understanding how cognitive distortions can shape the course of technical problem-solving and explores ways to manage these … Continue reading what are cognitive distortions in technical support