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Communications10-Oct-2010

Q - I have an important all-hands meeting coming up - how can I make a big impact with my opening speech?

A - Tell a story.  Leaders who tell stories have a much better chance of having their messages stick with their audiences.  Link your main messages to 1-2 stories from your personal or business life, or reference an event from history that illustrates your key points.  Unleash the power of metaphors (which poeple will be more likely to remember) with a well-placed story, and you'll wow your team!

Communications22-Mar-2010

Q – I just received some 360o feedback, and it seems my biggest opportunity is communications. In particular, I tend to ramble and have trouble finding a way to finish my thoughts. Can you help?

A - This is a common issue; many leaders speak too long or use more words than are necessary to get their points across. Try this technique – organize your thoughts before you speak, and group them into two or three main points. Literally, plan how you’re going to address the issue, then preface your comments with a statement such as: “there are three consequences of this decision…”. The more you can “chunk” your thoughts and declare to your audience what they are (and how many points you’re going to make) before you speak, the easier it will be for you to “get in and out of” your comments.