Rephrase for better communication results. Making a few small adjustments in how we phrase things can increase our chances of getting collaboration and connection. Years ago, I arrived on-site to deliver a keynote for a corporate event. Surprisingly, it was my second year in a row speaking to this group. Typically, organizations bring in a different speaker each year, so…
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” This timeless quote from Mother Teresa perfectly captures the positive impact that simple acknowledgments can have. Yet, as a supervisor balancing deadlines and deliverables, it’s sometimes a struggle to find time to recognize top team members—especially when your energy may be drained due to difficult…
“Speak in anger and you’ll make the best speech you’ll ever regret.” This popular quote is a cautionary tale of what could happen if we let our emotions get the best of us. Yet, it’s understandable to have an emotional reaction when you receive criticism. You may feel defensive. You may want to explain yourself and defend your actions. So…
Life has a way of presenting us with unexpected challenges. It sometimes makes us feel like we’re being pushed off a cliff rather than taking a deliberate leap. As the saying goes, we must learn to grow wings on the way down. In a recent interview, I shared my story of deciding to take the leap into my own speaking…
“People do business with those they know, like and trust,” according to the popular expression. As such, it benefits us to know how to use communication skills to make more meaningful conversations. I recently quoted those wise words when I was interviewed by Reader’s Digest Magazine for a communication article: How to Talk to Pretty Much Anyone. I also shared…
You’ve probably heard the expression “There is no “I” in Team.” That refers to the fact that the word TEAM does not have an I in it, but more to the point, it stresses that we can work together better when we focus on we, the team, rather than just focusing on what I want. As a twist on that…