Situation says everything.

The standard "quick teach" (30 seconds or less) is frequently referred to as "The Balonia Sandwich." (Assuming of course ... you are in an epistomological profile ... to be a mentor)

The "sandwich" is based on the psychological foundation that...the "ego" wants to protect itself. Anything first perceived as "criticism" is b blocked to "protect the self-image."

Therefore, (in coaching - or changing behavior) one must first preface the correction with a postive (and correct) observation.

The desired modification is then noted and explained.

It must then be followed with a second positive observation.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

This "sandwhich" is useful in the western cultures.....reports from some managers .... in African and Mid-East positions report that...."Only The First GOOD report is heard" and may boost the ego to such a stratosphere .... NOTHING will change behavior ... as the original comment is thrown back again and again.

Max and Joe work well with the first catagory