Are you afraid to "ask the question"? How does communication help extend your network, enhance your credibility and strengthen your relationships?

In this conversation, Dave Thompson and Heather DeSiena explore the significance of communication in various professional contexts. Heather emphasizes the importance of choosing words carefully, the value of emotional intelligence, and the necessity of asking the right questions. They discuss how effective communication can lead to career transitions, networking opportunities, and successful negotiations. Heather shares her personal experiences and insights on how to improve communication skills and the human element in a technology-driven world.

In this engaging conversation, Heather DeSiena and Dave Thompson discuss the intricacies of salary negotiations, the importance of understanding corporate culture, and the art of public speaking. They explore how individuals can advocate for themselves in the workplace, the significance of human connection in corporate environments, and the challenges and lessons learned in public speaking. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, negotiation skills, and a human-centric approach to leadership and corporate culture.

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Learn more about how to bring Heather to your team or for coaching!

Truths:

• Words matter in every industry.
• Success isn't built on silence.
• Communication skills can always be improved.
• Asking the right questions opens doors.
• Intentionality in communication fosters better relationships.
• Human connection is essential in a technology-driven world.
• Negotiation starts long before the contract.
• Understanding your audience is key to effective communication.
• Building rapport is crucial in any interaction.
• Possibilities are endless when you ask questions.
• Many companies expect candidates to negotiate offers.
• Negotiation can include salary, equity, and benefits.
• Listening is a crucial part of effective communication.
• Corporate culture impacts employee engagement and productivity.
• You can be profitable without sacrificing your people.
• Quiet quitting is a significant issue in corporate America.
• Human connection is essential in remote work environments.
• Public speaking requires adaptability and authenticity.
• Being human is your competitive edge in business.

Leading scholars in the fields of criminology and psychology have published the latest scientific review paper titled Police-Induced Confessions 2.0; Risk Factors and Recommendations. We were lucky to be joined by two of the authors on this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast.

Host Dave Thompson is joined by two guests, Dr. Hayley Cleary, and Dr. Chris Meissner as they delve into the complexities of interview techniques, false confessions, and the importance of collaboration between academic research and practical law enforcement. They discuss their personal journeys into the field, the evolution of interrogation methods, and the critical role of humility and communication in effective interviewing. The conversation highlights the weight of confessions in investigations and the need for ongoing research and training to improve practices in the field. This conversation delves into the psychology of interrogation, emphasizing the importance of an open-minded investigative approach. The speakers discuss how biases can affect the interrogation process, the significance of understanding risk factors, and the need for effective interviewing techniques. They highlight the shift towards science-based interviewing practices and provide recommendations for improving the reliability of information gathered during interrogations.

Read the Scientific Review Paper 2.0: APA PsycNet FullTextHTML page

Truths:

• Research should inform practical applications in interrogation.
• Confessions can heavily influence the perception of evidence.
• Ongoing training is necessary to adapt to new findings.
• Understanding human communication enhances interrogation techniques.
• The evolution of interrogation practices is ongoing.
• Laboratory research provides foundational insights for fieldwork.
• Curiosity drives both scientific and investigative inquiry.
• Building rapport is key to effective interviewing.
• The goal of an interview should be cooperation, not just a confession.
• Confessions can contaminate our opinion and affect judgments.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for accurate information gathering.
• We need to reduce the use of accusatorial practices in interviews.
• Evidence-based suspicion can help protect innocent individuals.
• Collaboration between researchers and practitioners is essential for innovation.

In this episode of the Truth Be Told podcast, host Dave Thompson interviews David Johnston, Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations at the National Retail Federation. They discuss David's extensive career in loss prevention, the evolution of communication in the industry, and the challenges faced in franchise environments.

David shares insights on the importance of building relationships, managing egos, and the transition from a practitioner to a business mindset. The conversation highlights the significance of effective communication and adaptability in various roles throughout one's career. In this conversation, David Johnston and Dave Thompson discuss the importance of intentional communication, building rapport, and the role of the National Retail Federation (NRF) in advocating for the retail industry. They explore the challenges of networking in a digital age, the significance of genuine relationships, and the complexities of engaging with media and legislators. The discussion also highlights the upcoming NRF Protect event, emphasizing its value for learning and networking within the retail sector.

Connect with David Johnston here: David Johnston | LinkedIn

Register for NRF Protect 2025: Registration Information | NRF PROTECT 2025

Retailers - use discount code WZ200 to receive $200 off registration as a "thank you" for being a listener to the Truth Be Told podcast, courtesy of the NRF!

Truths:

• Communication is a core skill in any profession.
• Building relationships is essential for success.
• Continuous learning is crucial for career growth.
• Transitioning roles requires adaptability and new strategies.
• Franchise environments present unique challenges.
• Understanding cultural differences is key in global operations.
• Effective communication can help manage difficult conversations.
• Sales skills can be developed from interviewing techniques.
• Every conversation can be viewed as an opportunity to negotiate or sell.
• Plan conversations with clear intent and goals.
• Active listening and open-ended questions foster better communication.
• Engagement in meetings is crucial for effective communication.
• Genuine relationships lead to successful networking.
• Effective communication is key in high-stakes situations.
• Helping others achieve success leads to personal growth.