December 15th, 2006
Although the 30-second elevator speech has become one of the required skills to have in your leadership repertoire, I’ve been resisting it every step of the way.
I’ve read all the reasons about why it’s important. It basically boils down to having a creative, yet solid, answer to the question “what do you do?” and having […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 5 comments
November 6th, 2006
As you promote within your company, you will find increased opportunity to be visible, both within your workplace and without. One way that you may be asked to represent the company is by speaking at an event, organize a conference, or participate in a public forum.
These are wonderful opportunities for both personal and professional growth. […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 3 comments
November 1st, 2006
I’ve written a lot lately about how important it is for us to compliment, praise, and thank others.
Equally important, however, is learning how to graciously accept compliments, praise and thanks from others. All to often, we tend to brush aside the kind words of others, either because we are embarrassed, don’t feel worthy, or simply […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 3 comments
October 31st, 2006
I’ve written previously about the power of praise, and how important it is to motivating and inspiring people. One of the simplest was to extend praise is with two simple words — Thank You.
Think about the last time you extended and thank you. Was it well thought out and sincere, or was it a throw […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 1 comment
October 27th, 2006
Do you frequently find yourself involved in verbal battles with other people? If so, defensive communication may be part of the problem.
Defensive communication occurs when one party to a conversation feels threatened, attacked, or is trying to protect their self-image.
Oh sure, we all react defensively on occasion, and it is, in fact, a legitimate defense mechanism. But […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 4 comments
October 18th, 2006
All too frequently today, people are starved for a little praise. Whether we are willing to acknowledge it to others, or even admit it to ourselves, we all need a little praise in our life.
Awhile back, Milo wrote a post about his belief that a leader should not give someone a pat on the back […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 4 comments
October 8th, 2006
A friend just received a fairly major career promotion. It came about through her dedication to self-improvement, lots of hard work, and the guidance of a wise and trusted mentor.
The mentor is retiring at the end of the month, and a big celebratory party is planned. My friend has been asked to make a toast […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 0 comments
October 4th, 2006
One of the most important skills for a leader to possess is the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately.
We frequently think of communication skills from a public point of view: a press conference, interview, or speech, but some of the most vital communication occurs on a daily basis – the communication between boss and employee, […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 1 comment
September 17th, 2006
Body language is a vital part of your communications. They send out a powerful message, and should be working to support your verbal message, rather than work against it.
If you feel like you are always being misunderstood, perhaps your body language is contradicting your verbal message.
Do you find that your typical communication stance is with […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 0 comments
September 16th, 2006
Have you ever obsessed about something to the point where it took on a life of its own? Where a small irritant became bigger than life? When that one irritant consumed a disproportionate amount of your time?
When this happens within a team environment, it can destroy your individual productivity and motivation, as well as poison […]
By Mary Jo Manzanares -- 1 comment
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