February 2015

Can we agree to disagree?

Fed up with too much argument, too little progress? My blog post this month discusses what we lose when we focus on winning.

Feeling your communications skills could use a boost? It may be time for you to join me for Executive Communincations Skills: One-Day Blitz! Check my workshop schedule for a new winter/spring workshop dates.

Tips you can use!

Assign a note-taker

If you are running a meeting you are already wearing many hats. Be generous and share! Ask someone else to take notes. That way you'll have a record of all the important info without having to split your focus. Added bonus: if someone is not being crystal clear, you can easily ask for clarification, so "we can get it right in the notes."

 

Fill the space

Even if you are petite, short, or a natural introvert, the very act of getting up to speak makes you seem bigger and bolder. Use that knowledge and embrace your power -- don't shrink from it.

 

Winter hydration
. . . is just as important as summer hydration! You are exerting a lot of energy staying warm and keeping active in the colder months. You probably don't automatically pack your water bottle when you go out to work or play, but you still need it. So start thinking of your handheld hydration device as a year-round accessory.

 

January 2015

 

Here come the awards!

My blog post this month offers a brief insight into what makes a film performance complelling, and how you can apply similar techniques to experience your own succcess next time you are "in the spotlight."

A New Year means a new round of workshops: check here for upcoming dates and times for the Executive Communincations Skills: One-Day Blitz! 

Tips you can use!

Don't hog the floor

There is always someone who brings meetings to a grinding halt by droning on and on. Even if you are sure you're not "that guy," do some mental preparation before you go and engage in active listening while there. Such behavior can be infectious. Try it; you just might get through the entire agenda on time.

 

Button up that overcoat!

I know that being under-dressed in the winter does not directly cause colds or flu, but it can reduce your resistance to germs and make you more susceptible. So put on that hat, pull out those gloves and suit up for the cold. No one has time to be sick anymore.

 

Color me happy

Winter dreariness saps your energy. But when presenting or speaking to a group, you need to look and sound alive—which might be a challenge this time of year! One quick fix is to wear a splash of color near your face: a jewel-toned scarf or a richly-hued tie. Even if your business wardrobe tends to be subdued, a bit of color can go a long way toward lifting your spirits.

December 2014

Time to light the candles

As the year winds down, I want to take a minute to thank you, dear readers, for helping me have such a tremendous year! I have been doing a lot of creative work lately--in my theatrical endeavors as well as my teaching. I have designed new courses, presented for some amazing groups, and in general have had a great year! So thanks to you all for being a part of my happy 2014 journey.

This month's blog post shares a very intersting project. One of my clients is posting her own podcasts as a new communications tool. You'll never guess who she asked for "expert advice."

Tips you can use!

Take care of that voice

Whether you're cheering at a bowl game or shouting over party music, you need to back off before you strain your voice. That croaky voice may sound "sexy" to you, but does it convey the professional image you want? Sadly, vocal damage often takes more than a good's night sleep to heal, so quit while you're ahead.

 

Drink less, drink more

Be sure to drink lots of water this time of year! Indoor heating dries out the air and your throat. Alcohol does, too--so watch those drinks, especially if you're giving a toast or making a speech.

 

Enjoy the moment

During the holiday season, our thoughts can get ahead of our actions more than they usually do. Breathe, focus, slow down, and be mindful of what you're doing. Open yourself to unexpected delights of the season!