ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the interview with Robert Kraska. Rob is a manager of training and development at DTE Energy, a utility company based in Detroit, Michigan. Rob's facility with language makes this interview a treat. It is full of lots of rich examples that examine the different facets of stories in organizational communication and learning. Rob shares some stories about the company and its cultures that you will want to read. Rob points out that the teller should adjust the length of a story based on the context in which the story is being told. Given his background as a facilitator, Rob uses stories extensively in training. In the beginning of the conversation Rob points out that he is using the word story in a much broader manner than he and most people are accustomed to. Rob also observes that stories can be used ineffectively. Reflection emerges again as a key competency required by effective communicators.
