By Gail Zack Anderson on May 10, 2016
How often have you heard the following phrases? No problem I can’t do that You’ll have to I’m not going to discuss that I’m not going to take up your time I’m not going to go into detail That will never work It’s a good idea, but It is so easy to fall into the […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on March 21, 2016
Today’s speakers need to do more than impart information to their listeners. With all the competition for attention, speakers like you know it is important to connect with and engage your audiences. That may be pretty easy to do with a small group or meeting, but how about when you are speaking at a forum, […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on February 19, 2016
You know how full every minute of your day is. Packed with meetings, phone conversations, travel, family commitments, e-mail. It goes on and on. But if we let our busy lives get in the way of good listening, there is a steep price to pay. That price includes losses in efficiency, effectiveness, and even in […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on January 12, 2016
How are you at speaking directly and clearly? Some of us like to “sugar coat” the truth so we don’t hurt anyone’s feelings. Others are “too blunt” to the point of harshness. If you fall in one camp or the other, finding a balanced approach might be a better way to go. Pay attention to […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on September 29, 2015
“Well, I guess that’s about all I have.” “Well, I guess we are out of time.” “That’s about it.” How do you close your meetings and presentations? Hopefully not like these endings, which are common enough, but entirely ineffective. Closing your presentation can be challenging, especially if you have run out of time, taken a number […]
By Theresa Pojuner on September 12, 2015
What is a business case? A business case is a document that describes the reason why something has to be done. It will describe the usefulness of the project and the consequences if the project is not approved. Because it is a document that defines the project and its purpose, it can almost be compared […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on August 3, 2015
Are you prepared to introduce yourself in a way that builds credibility and trust? If you are uneasy or uncomfortable introducing yourself, or do it poorly, your presentation, meeting or training session can get off to a bad start. Take time to plan and rehearse your openings. Guidelines: State your name clearly, maybe more than […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on May 18, 2015
Your organization is undergoing a significant change, and your team is worried. They want to know all the details about the change. Right now. Trouble is, all the details are not yet spelled out. Plus you have been asked to wait to talk about some aspects of the change until others have been notified. No […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on April 6, 2015
Whether you are training, leading a meeting, or giving a formal presentation, effective speaking is more than just “telling.” It is also about making sure your listeners get the message you intend. To be sure your listeners understand and remember what you have said, select from these strategies, depending on the situation and your comfort […]
By Gail Zack Anderson on March 9, 2015
Do you ever get tongue-tied when you speak? Have trouble thinking of the right words to make your point? It’s frustrating when you can’t automatically find the right words. Let’s think about why that happens, and how you can build more fluency in your speech. First, consider the redundancy in word choices. When you are […]