10 ways to improve your observation skills (and your career), part III

How did you do on the observation test? If you found your observation skills lacking, it may be something to consider working on, as

For people who plan to become the leaders of tomorrow, developing a keen sense of observation is a must. Read more

Problem solving and your career, part II

In Part I, I suggested how to frame a question so you know how to begin to find an answer. Hopefully, you took some time to think about, and outline, the underlying issues. What is causing the problem? What are the potential answers to the problem? Once you have a hypothesis, you can focus on a solution. Read more

7 questions to consider to help solve a problem, part I

Remember back in grade school, when you first learned about the scientific method?

Wikipedia defines it:

Scientific method refers to a body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. Read more

Listen to your customers – a skit helps a presentation have maximum impact

High impact presentations are the ones people are still talking about weeks later. At a recent sales conference, I witnessed such a presentation. The success secret: use a skit to capture the audience and improve your powers of persuasion. Read more

How to write a presentation – where to begin?

You need to write a presentation – the logical question? Where to start? Even the most experienced presenter runs up against this. Is it writer’s block? Probably not. You just need a new way to start. Getting the creative juices flowing today may be completely different than it was yesterday. Read more

Ken Revenaugh to speak about opportunity management and sales force communication

March 23 –  Ken Revenaugh, VP, Sales Operations Oakwood Temporary Housing, James LiVigni, Vice President, Sales Operations, Kronos and Douglas A. Ferreira, Senior Training Specialist, Oakwood Temporary Housing Read more

Key to giving memorable presentations

Why do we remember some presentations more than others? Better presenter? More interesting topic? Good visuals? Yes, all could contribute, but a good story told with heart is key to helping your listeners connect with your message. Read more

How to turn “win” into “winning” – strategies for success at work

When was the last time you played Scrabble? If it’s been a few years, you may be a little rusty. How can that be? Isn’t it just spelling words? If you are a true competitor, you know that there is more to it.

The recession encouraged people to spend less on media and going out and to return to basics for entertainment. Yes – “game night” is back in vogue. Read more

How to communicate well – know your audience

Most communication gurus will tell you that you need to know your audience before a presentation. However, the big on-stage presentation is not an everyday event. In fact, everyday meetings and one-on-one conversations require heeding the same advice. It’s also important to think about the regional diversities that exist across a globally connected community. Read more

How to become a strong communicator – collect stories and factoids

I have a friend who says, “Good wine, good friends and good stories go together.” I would put some good food in that mix also, but I agree. I have a group of former co-workers who make it a priority to organize a trip at the beginning of every year.  In January or February, we trek off to a land of rolling hills covered in grape vines, rent a big bunk house for everyone and explore the area in search of good stories. Read more