Challenge: I have to give a presentation to a user group but I’ve never done anything like this before. Can you give me any advice fast?
Answer: During my 20 years of teaching and speaking, I’ve identified four principles for giving effective presentations. These principles have helped me to make effective presentations with clarity and confidence in classroom, boardroom, and platform environments. I know they will help you too!
If the CEO of your company walked into your office, what would be his perception of you? Have you ever taken an objective look at your office or work area? Is it well organized (or at least a mostly organized) and reflective of person in control of his or her environment? What does it communicate about your ability to manage projects, processes, or people? What impression does it give your coworkers, staff, and visitors?
Challenge: I have trouble remembering names. It’s embarrassing at meetings and social events. Any tips to help me remember names?
Answer: This is a common problem. It can create embarrassing situations. I’ll give you three tips that have helped me remember names.
If you’re like most of my friends, you probably work over 40 hours during an average week (even more during special assignments and critical projects). There is always a sense of pressure and stress that goes with the job. Of course, a certain amount of stress is good. It keeps us alert and focused. But too much stress can interfere with one of your most important daily activities, sleep.
Does your organization provide employees with opportunities for personal development? Terri Kabachnick, author of I Quit, But Forgot to Tell You, shares the results of a survey of 1400 executives, managers and associates: 76% would switch jobs for less money in order to work for a company that offers opportunities for personal development and flexibility.
Most of us desire to move to the next level in our careers. We all seek out opportunities for promotion and success. Before an opportunity comes available, ask yourself these two questions; “Have I counted the cost of accepting a promotion?” and “Have I prepared myself for promotion?” Let’s briefly explore these two important questions.
The ability to make good decisions requires current, accurate and timely information. One way to gather the information you need and clarify your situation before making any decision is by asking effective questions. Not just general, poorly worded questions but ones that are well thought out and positively worded questions. So, what makes a question effective?
I’m sure you’ve known people during your career who have a wonderful sense of humor as well as some with no sense of humor. Generally, I’ve observed that managers and employees with a sense of humor have a profoundly positive effect in the workplace.
Challenge: I’m a member of a problem solving technical team at work. When we brainstorm a situation, my ideas are always rejected. What can I do to get them to accept my ideas?
Does your staff answer the telephone in a way that promotes the best image of your company and your department? Do you know how callers perceive the way your help desk, call center, or co-workers answer the telephone?
