“I’m Afraid My Meeting Will Suck” — And How to Make Sure It Doesn’t
Learn how to make memorable first impressions, whether meeting virtually or in person. Tips to build confidence, connect authentically, and stand out from the start.
You Are About to Lose Me With Your Over Complicated Messaging
Companies and nonprofits alike make it challenging for their audiences to understand who they are and why they matter. My new electric car reminded me that complicated messaging frustrates your audiences. Here are a few tips for avoiding the complexity trap.
7 Tips for Expressing an Attitude of Gratitude
These days the thank you note and other expressions of attitudes of gratitude can sometimes seem like an endangered species. Expressing thanks is an important part of social well being. Here are some tips for how to do it right.
Avoid Black and White and Embrace Gray Thinking
We live in a world where everything seems to be “either/or.” It’s “Us vs. Them” “For or Against.” “My way or the highway.” Polarized communication is destroying us. We have to stop focusing on black and white thinking and move toward gray thinking.
Want to Write Persuasively? Declare Your Editorial Independence
Some years ago, I found myself in editorial purgatory--working on a speech for my boss and going around and around in search of the next great sound bite. Then, after the 13th draft, inspiration struck. I declared editorial independence with a copy of the Declaration of Independence.
Their Mission Statement Made Me Want to Scream
Too many organizations believe their mission statement is their message. Understanding the difference between mission and message can help you craft effective communication that is inspiring, memorable, and magnetic. This post offers some clarification.
I Was Suddenly Out of Focus
How do we keep pace between what we are offering and rapid movements in our market? How do we demonstrate our value in a shifting normal? The answer is communication built on listening.
Is Bigger Really Better?
In business, we celebrate scale. There are greater efficiencies, access more to more resources and greater impact. But is bigger really better? Just because a business is small doesn’t mean it thinks small or doesn’t make an impact. Ignore small business at your peril.
Why People Tune You Out
Abstraction is the enemy of effective communication. To break through the noise and get people to pay attention, paint pictures with words with metaphors and analogies. And your message is more likely to stick.