So much of getting to know someone is about asking the right questions (and really listening to the answer). If you’re feeling stumped on how to get beyond weather, kids, and menu options, use these prompts to guide you towards stuff that really matters. I’ve separated them into three categories to help you identify which … Continue reading »
Tagged with communication …
5 steps to great team dynamics
Set up a ping pong table and buy as many board games as you like — positive rapport doesn’t happen overnight. Employees naturally travel through phases of exploration, challenge, acceptance, and performance. Recognize that all teams move through stages of development, and some individuals require more time to assert their skills and integrate into preexisting … Continue reading »
Find people better than you.
He always makes the deal. She finds conveted inside information. He lands top meetings and befriends the opposition. Her comments catalyze progress that proceeds company-wide change. These folks are not your competition. Their work, their composure, their grace under fire, their successes are not your threats. In fact, these people are your greatest allies. People … Continue reading »
12 reasons to delegate
You want to do it all on your own. After all, your way is the best way. Explaining your process takes too much time, and it won’t be done exactly the right way. What’s the use? Channeling responsibilities can lead to long-term payoffs. Delegate often so that you can: focus on the big picture trust … Continue reading »
The power of weakness
In moments of confusion, doubt, insecurity and despair, we feel least like connecting. It becomes tempting to create distance, sit in the corner, and focus inward when feeling less than. We convince ourselves that failures and struggles are better left unspoken. Yet these moments often proceed sparks of brilliance and unstoppable action. Too often we … Continue reading »
24 traits of an impresario
confidence hustle recklessness graciousness improvisation problem solving quick thinking empathic resilient connected creative communicator curious resourceful thorough grateful careful listener street smart curator analyzer determined fearless goal-oriented
The magic of introductions
If you’ve been the recipient of a polished introduction, you’ve probably failed to recognize its subtle magic. An introduction is a moment of alchemy; part ceremonious, part craft, part prologue. It’s quick, seemingly effortless, and gracefully leads you into an engaging discussion. In the blink of an eye, you’re feeling confident, interesting, interested, and at … Continue reading »
6 ways to turn small talk into real talk
Ask. Bring thoughtful, open-ended questions to the table. Your prompts can help shape the conversation at hand. If your delivery is honest and curious, you’ll be met with an equally forthright response. Be patient. It’s common to feel nervous, get antsy, want to head for the door or look for a new group. The juice … Continue reading »
Assemble your Dream Team
The company you keep can be a single-handed propelling force in your life. With the right team of people by your side, you can maximize your potential and surpass both professional and personal goals. Assemble your own Dream Team by looking for these key players: The Mentor – Someone who’s been there. This is a … Continue reading »
Good start, better end
Most of our efforts are concentrated on beginnings. We are taught the importance of starting off on the right track and putting our best foot forward. We want to barrel out of the gate and make great first impressions. Consider: We rehearse repetitively for auditions and practice months before the big game. First meetings include … Continue reading »
