It’s a Catastrophe! Today’s common understanding of “catastrophe” – a sudden disaster – is not the word’s original meaning.  It first meant “a reversal of what is expected,” something altogether more broad, more benign and perhaps more useful (you’ll see the connection with words like “apostrophe,” whose etymology means in effect a “turning point.”) The extension of meaning to “sudden disaster” was first recorded in 1748, some 200 years after Continue Reading…

It has been said that there is a reason that God gave us two ears and only one mouth. Listening is such a crucial activity yet we devote so little effort to doing it well. It is essential for building healthy relationships and successful partnerships. Here are some important facts and techniques that can help improve your listening and interpersonal... Continue Reading...

In survey after survey, interpersonal communication skills are consistently ranked at or near the top of a list of skills necessary for career success. People who possess these skills enjoy a richer personal life, better relationships at work and more productive interactions with those around them. Teams with members who excel at these skills are more... Continue Reading...

What makes a great communicator so persuasive? What makes the best leader motivational? How does one become a great, inspirational leader?

"I wasn't a great communicator, but I communicated great things."

–Reagan in his farewell address as president.

Voice Their Dreams A great leader is able to rally their people... Continue Reading...

As a manager, you have so much to do and so little time to do it. You know communicating with your staff is critically important, but how can you make it easier? Here are 3 techniques you can use:

Because "I said so" isn't always enough A leader's power comes from his/her followers. If your staff rejects your directives, you're toast. Here's... Continue Reading...

Want to make someone's day today?

Let me tell you a story.

We walked into a downtown restaurant to enjoy a nice winter lunch. We were seated and began conversing as normal. Then our waiter "Peter" approached us.

He asked: "Hi Everyone! How are you all doing today?"

We all said: "Great!"

But... Continue Reading...

This article is continued from Part 1 of The Gift of Compliments.

So we left you off with a helpful recipe to help cook up some great compliments. To recap, the three ingredients are:

• Context: When you compliment, make sure there's a reason! Understand the person and the situation and behave accordingly. • Opinion:... Continue Reading...