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6 social tools for communicating in our new era

by at 12:17 am 8 Comments

Have you noticed our collective world seems to be all about convenience, time, and social media? 

Based on this, I want to share a few social tech tools for efficiently communicating in our new digital era.

  1.  Headline Analyzer from the Advanced Marketing Institute -Need help writing psychologically powered headlines that compel people to read—and buy—from you?  Business communicators and sales professionals understand that buying a product, service, or idea, is based on emotions. That’s where this simple tool comes into play.

AMI explains the “emotional marketing value of a headline” on its website: “We have developed a software program which has access to our EMV impact words. The program uses special algorithms to quickly compare the words of your headline with the words from the EMV Impact list.”

What’s the importance of a high EMV rating?  “The key to communication is being able to reach the client at an emotional level. Involving them in your copy, and invoking their deeper thoughts,” states the AMI site.  “While many marketers ‘guess’ how people will react to various words and offers, we have determined a test which will give you an actual rating that you can use to judge how well-received your copy will be to others.”

2. Recitethis.com allows users to insert their own verbiage, quote, or phrase to create a personalized graphic in mere seconds. Users also have the option of pulling a quotation from the site’s library. “Turn a quote into a masterpiece” is the site’s mantra. Here’s an example: 

 

3.  Bottlenose.com  “We analyze and map the world’s attention in real-time. It’s live, visual, interactive and seriously smart.” That’s the homepage message from Bottlenose.com, a monitoring and analytics tool that’s been in beta for a while. Tech reporters say this newbie can give Google a run for its money. The $1 million in new seed funding should help. Christina Farr writes on Venturebeat.com: “Bottlenose infuses social elements into your search ‘stream’ — a term the company uses to refer to the sea of status updates and news. Search for a term on the website, and Bottlenose will surface what the world thinks, organized by relevance to you. Social search is Google’s greatest weakness…” This is a new, real-time dimension into who is paying attention to your company, brand, marketing campaigns, and competitors.

 4. Poll Everywhere- This has been around for a while, but not many communicators or speakers know about it, and use it. Poll Everywhere is an audience response tool that allows users to “gather live responses in any venue: conferences, presentations, classrooms, radio, TV, print — anywhere. And because it works internationally with texting, web, or Twitter, its simplicity and flexibility are earning reviews,” according to its website.

 5. Prezi.com seems to be the successor to PowerPoint.  With complaints about boring bullet points and excessive text, many communicators—myself included—are turning to Prezi. The tag line, “Make your presentations zoom,” helps us understand how this cloud-based software works. The analogy the company website uses is that the main point of your topic is in a graphic or image form, similar to the outside of a house. With each click and zoom, the topic is broken down into detail, or the rooms of the house.

6. Awesome Screenshot prides itself on capturing, annotating, and sharing screenshots. “Capture the whole page or any portion, annotate it with rectangles, circles, arrows, lines and text, one-click upload to share.” This can spice up your presentations, marketing materials, web pages, tutorials, and more.

Are you familiar with any or all of these? Is it time to start using them? Which nifty tech tools do you want to share with us?

 

 

Filed Under: Business, Communicators, Digital, Social Media, Technology Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

5 Royal Communication Lessons from ‘The King’s Speech’

by at 6:41 am 3 Comments

If I were famed movie critic Roger Ebert, I would recommend that anyone who communicates with another human being should see the acclaimed movie, The King’s Speech.  I’m not the only one impressed with this movie. It won four Academy Awards. 

This is not “just” for professional communicators, bloggers, or PR pros.  There are layers of lessons in this film. Here’s the thumbnail; the takeaway’s follow. 

The Kings Speech is based on the true story of King George VI, played by Colin Firth.  Following the 1939 death of his father and the abdication of his older brother, “Bertie” reluctantly assumes the role of monarch. England is on the brink of war and desperately needs a strong leader. Here’s the problem. Bertie has stammered and stuttered all of his life. He’s  afraid to jump into this very public role.  The underlying reasons for his speech impediment run deep.  Bertie’s able to address the challenge with the help of an eccentric speech therapist, Lionel Logue, portrayed by actor Geoffrey Rush. As the speech therapy evolves, so does a touching and unexpected friendship between the two men.  

Here are five communication lessons for all of us:

1. Have faith in your own voice.

Bertie was so accustomed to being teased and ignored by the powerful men in his family, that he actually believed he didn’t have a voice. That’s why he couldn’t get the words out. Are your words getting stuck in your throat like Bertie’s? 

2.  Listen to me!

Here’s a dialogue between Bertie and Lionel: 

King: L-listen to me…listen to me!

Lionel: Why should I waste my time listening to you?

King: Because I have a voice!

Lionel: …yes, you do.

Are you using your voice in the most effective way possible? Are you silently begging others to pay attention to your message, brand, or blog post?  As Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg has said: Do you have a seat at the table or are you on the perimeter?  You have a voice. Yes, you do.

3. Present your best version. 

In an interview, actor Geoffrey Rush (Lionel), said, “I think there’s a greater metaphor at work. You could see this film and not think it’s a film about someone who stammers but about how do we present the best versions of ourselves.” 

Are you proud or shamed by your public persona? How is that conveyed to others? How can you do better?

4. Open your mouth…and…

Richard Brooks included this line in his review in the Sunday Times:  “Just before the opening of parliament in November 1940, he (Bertie) wrote: ‘Logue, I’ve got the jitters. I woke up at one this morning after dreaming I was in parliament with my mouth wide open and I could not say a word.’”

Have you experienced the nightmare of being speechless?  The minds of communicators can be cruel. Could you possibly run out of words?

5. Speak to and for the people.

Colin Firth said, “Rhetoric was important in that job. When he spoke, the nation felt he spoke to and for them. Yet he felt that he couldn’t speak.”

Do you feel you can speak and connect with others? Or are you hiding behind the quotes, blog posts, and Tweets that you ghostwrite for someone else? 

The King’s Speech  is worth a trip to the movie theater. Don’t wait for the DVD version. It’s that good. And it’s really funny, too.


Filed Under: Communication, Leadership, Public Relations Tagged With: , , ,

The #1 Challenge Facing Millennials in the Workforce

by at 9:36 pm 4 Comments

Professor Kevin Freeman has his finger on the pulse of college students who are learning communication skills. We talked recently about this new generation and the greatest challenge they face as they enter the workforce.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsYap4O9L6M

Transcript:

“The biggest hurdle this millennial generation is facing is that they are not recognizing the significance in the job market of effective communication. And that is because a lot of them spend a lot of time engaged in cell phone activity, and computers. Perhaps they’re not as interactive when it comes to face-to-face meetings and discussions. But they all have the ability and talent to bring it forth. It’s a matter of dipping in and finding out their real skills. What happens is that a lot of the students have not had the opportunity at the high school level or early on in their careers here in college to provide them with the kind of communication skills they need to move forward in the professional community they are going to be part of.

It’s very interesting that there have here’s been surveys done around college campuses and they always speak about how important effective communication will be in the workforce. I’m looking at it in this classroom with 24 students who all will need effective communication skills in the future.”

Filed Under: Business, Communication, Interpersonal Relationships, Social Media, Social Networking, Success Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

How to Master the Art of Business Communication

by at 2:42 pm 4 Comments

acesBusiness communication covers a lot of ground. You may learn public speaking in high school and college. You may learn how to write solid reports and letters at the beginning of your career. You may come to understand marketing and public relations when you have to network at business events. You may be forced to deal with conflicts regardless of where you work or how old you are.

All of these facets of communication–and a few more–involve new experiences coupled with ongoing education. It’s the process of learning. It’s not one single event. The process is how we change, grow and evolve. I write articles and blog about these topics and trends all the time. Many of you who are regular readers have been kind enough to share wonderful feedback, comments and Retweets–which are always appreciated.

Successful people, like yourself, are dedicated to the learning process. Successful people are always on a journey of education. Don’t panic, this doesn’t mean you have to return to college.   It means that you’re willing to take advantage of the resources and tools that are available to help you learn and grow.

If you want to master the art of business communication, it’s time to make a commitment to your education and success.  The information I’ve shared with you is going to a new and exciting level!  My new “Aces” program will fast-track your journey. Aces is a membership program packed with benefits for you.

Every month you will receive:

“Monday Morning Marketing” is a Tip of the Week to help you create a buzz in the marketplace and promote your organization.

On Wednesdays, check your in-box for “Just A Thought”, a quick motivational quote to inspire your success.

Every Thursday, you’ll receive “The Weekly Buzz”, a short news nugget of 250 words on professional and personal development.

The “PR Buzz” arrives the last Friday of each month. It’s a newsletter with ready-to-use tips and strategies on Public Relations, Marketing and Social Media.

“Winning Ways” is a new interview series and Teleseminar that features conversations with successful leaders and media pros who share their insights and strategies to help you reach your own goals.

Special video blogs and “members only” video segments on timely topics

Monthly resource guides including the hottest websites, articles, chats and books.

My e-book “Communicating with Confidence”

Discounts on 15 and 30 minute speed coaching calls

4 Teleseminars/Webinars throughout the year

I invite you to join the journey to success with Aces- register at www.getinfrontcommunications.com/aces

If you want to kind of check things out first, take advantage of my free 21-day video series “Speaking of Communication.” Welcome to the “Sue Young Experience.”

(Photo Credit: Nu2photography)

Filed Under: Blogging, Business, Communication, Interpersonal Relationships, Leadership, Marketing, Public Relations, Self-Confidence, Social Media, Success Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Celebrating 10 Milestones and Lessons of an Entrepreneur

by at 12:02 pm 6 Comments

writing cert. 1st gradeTen years ago in March, I ventured into the unknown, signed the incorporation papers in the State of New Jersey and launched my company. Susan Young Media Relations has since morphed into Get in Front Communications (more name change/incorporation papers, this time in Texas). A time of celebration, of looking back, of lessons learned. This is my ”Entrepreneur’s Baby Book.” Please, indulge me. I promise there are no pictures of me sitting on Santa’s lap.

Year 1 - In business, we don’t call it “first steps and learning to walk.” We call it hustle. I had real paying clients and wrote on the white board in my home office: “My job is to make the phone ring.” Lesson Learned: A good reputation, customer service and referrals are priceless.

Year 2- “The Terrible Two’s” = September 11th. I work with the media in New Jersey and New York and have to educate my clients that unless their story is in someway connected to the horrific events of 9/11, they are on hold indefinitely  for news pitches and coverage.   Lesson Learned: There’s not a business school or book that could have trained me for this. Like parents, I had to fly by the seat of my pants. There was no manual or protocol. I remember my own children and their “Terrible Two’s:  This too shall pass.”

Year 3- The Growth Spurt. No one could promote my company better than I could. I started focusing on speaking and writing, which led to more clients. Advertisers would call and ask if I wanted to pay for an ad in their publication. I told them I don’t advertise. They asked how I get my clients.  They come to me. Lesson Learned: Growth spurts often bring aches and pains along the way. It’s called experience. It’s all there for a reason.

Year 4- “I Think I Can, I Think I Can-Whew!”  I passed the dreaded 1-year and 3-year mark of when the naysayers chant most small businesses fail in the first few years. I was on a roll and enjoying my work. I came to depend on and cherish the wisdom and insights of my mentors. I hired a freelance writer and was just itching to move into an office and continue growing and helping people.  Lesson Learned: Delegating is a good thing. Having the support of others,especially family, is key. So is admitting you don’t know everything.

Year 5- Recognition! Like a 5-year-old graduating from preschool, I received validation for my hard work. I won the “Entrepreneur of the Year” Award from a local Chamber of Commerce. I now had an office suite, an admin, a Virtual Assistant and two part-time writers. People I knew, especially former colleagues in radio and news, blatantly told me they were jealous. My response: Don’t be jealous. I worked my ass off. Nobody handed me anything. Lesson Learned: Put your head down and work. Oh, and have a good accountant.

Year 6- “I Can Do It Myself!”  Actually, I didn’t want to do it myself. I was like a kid who fought fiercely to be independent. I did have to admit I lacked the systems that others needed so they could perform their jobs. Much of what I did was in my head and not documented anywhere. Lesson Learned: I am a self-employed individual working for a lunatic.

Year 7- “Mommy, is the Wish Fairy real?”  I continued to focus on my professional and personal development, which I had done since 2001. I was living my dream and reaping the rewards of my hard work. When the entrepreneurial roller coaster dipped, I had to stop my occasional self-induced funk and remind myself the Wish Fairy ain’t coming. Lesson Learned: I decide how much money I will make…or not. Use the discipline and tools to grow your mind, positive attitude and skills. The Wish Fairy crashed and burned. Sorry princess. In other words, if you don’t want to do this, dig out your resume and go find a job.

Year 8- “Mommy, I lost another tooth. That’s ok, it’s better than me, I lost a major client today. Oh well, you’ll get another tooth soon and I’ll  get another client.”  Like the  tooth, some changes (or fall-out) provide us clues in advance. And like the lost client, sometimes the clues are much more subtle. I was now in San Antonio, Texas with PR clients and speaking engagements in two states. I worked with a lot of banks and real estate -related businesses in New Jersey and the market tanked. Lesson Learned: You’ll have to earn your way out of it.

Year 9: It’s time to learn. I was transitioning out of  the comfort zone of my old school and was forced to embrace my new school. You know, the one on the highway named Technology. Over the  past few years, the media market and contacts I had known had literally disappeared. Newsrooms were barely staffed and resources were cut to the bone. I had developed new ideas and projects to re-invent my company and rejuvenate myself. Some worked, and some didn’t. But now the buzz of course was Social Media and technology. This was kinda cool. The conversations are no longer one-way streets. Interactive was one of my favorite new spelling words.  Lesson Learned: If you’re not growing, you’re dying.

Year 10: OMG, OMG, OMG!!! Where the hell did the time go? Yes, the entrepreneurial roller coaster almost crashed and burned a few times. However, the views from top of the steep incline with the wind blowing in my hair and the sun warming my face reminds me that the exuberant and exciting times overshadow the dips and plunges.  Would I do it again? Oh yes! I am SO proud of myself. And if I close up shop tomorrow, I will still be SO proud of myself. Lesson Learned: If it was easy, everyone would be doing it. Stay with it.

Pass the cake please…

Filed Under: Business, Communication, Leadership, Marketing, Motivation, networking, News, Public Relations, Self-Confidence, Social Media, Success, Women Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

5 Tips to Building Sales & Credibility with Vocal Vitality

by at 6:15 pm 3 Comments

microphoneMaking your words come alive is an integral piece of your communication.


Many of you know I was an on-air radio news anchor and news reporter for more than 10 years. In my college broadcasting classes, my favorite professor taught me that radio is “theater of the mind.” He then showed me and my classmates the importance of using our voices and vocal vitality to capture the essence of our words so we could create mental images for our listeners. After all, on the radio, there are no visuals or body language to fall back on. It’s all in the voice. We had to give life to our spoken messages.

Your ability to use your voice to enhance your overall communication is essential. Vocal vitality is important if you are hosting a webinar or teleseminar. It’s important if you are a host or guest on BlogTalkRadio or other broadcasts. It’s important if you produce video blogs. Vocal vitality is also key on conference calls, voicemail messages, in sales, networking and presentations. You don’t have to sound like a blustery game show host to have a vibrant and energetic delivery.

A strong voice exudes confidence, authority, integrity, passion and enthusiasm. It builds instant credibility. A weaker sounding voice can diminish all of the above. The good news is that you can learn how to improve your delivery and vocal habits. Work with what you have. After all, you are the message.

Here are 5 tips to help you:

1. Avoid timidity. If you sound nervous or unsure of yourself, your professional credibility will be on the line. Be sure to lower your voice when completing a sentence. If your voice goes up at the end of the sentence, you sound as if you’re asking a question, not stating a fact. Be strong and confident.

2. Listen to yourself. For the sole purpose of learning, tape record a few casual conversations in your home and on the phone. Let your answering machine or voicemail record your conversation. Pay attention to your inflection, pacing, tone of voice and vocal habits. Critiquing yourself can be a real eye-opener.

3. Emphasize important words. By stressing a key word or phrase, you truly drive your point home. Conversely, emphasizing the wrong word can quickly confuse your  listener. A good way to polish this skill is to pay attention to TV and radio news anchors, and commercials. The announcers don’t plow through their script or newscopy. They pronounce every word carefully and slowly. It becomes an art.

4. Take advantage of silences and pauses. These are especially powerful in business and sales. Many people feel uncomfortable with silence. Silence is critical in sales meetings when you drop the gauntlet and ask your prospect the golden question, “Are you willing to give it a try?”, “Are there any concerns you have that are stopping you from signing the contract”,  or “Are you ready to get started now?” Inserting that pause and moment of silence can make or break the deal.

5. Express passion in your voice. If you sound bored, dull or monotone, the people listening will be bored as well. If you are excited and truly believe in your words and message, you have a great shot at capturing their attention. Enthusiasm is contagious.

The two cornerstones of success are excellent communication skills and self-confidence. Improving your vocal vitality will help you to succeed in these areas.


(Photo Credit: Manuel Marin)

Filed Under: Business, Communication, Interpersonal Relationships, Leadership, networking, Self-Confidence, Success, Webinars Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Your 20-Point Communication Success Checklist

by at 3:13 pm 7 Comments

DSC054372009 was a rough year for many of us. It was also an exciting time for people who are embracing new opportunities to communicate, use Social Media, build new business strategies and kick-start their organizations.

Marketing and business guru Tom Peters says, “If you don’t like change, you’ll like irrelevance even less.”

Technology and the changing economic landscape demand that we approach our missions,  creativity, communication and business development strategies with a fine balance of care, patience, vision and long-term growth.

Consider what you have accomplished and learned in the last year or two. Think about how you deliver your message in our ”crazy busy” world. Whether it’s Public Relations, websites, Twitter or sales calls, your communication must be top-notch. It must be distinctive and compelling. You must rise above the noise and clutter in the marketplace to truly excel and shine.

Be brutally honest when answering these questions.

Are you:

1. Communicating a message to the public  (website, Social Media profiles, brochures, interviews and blogs) that is cohesive, congruent and compelling?

2. Using a sales pitch or are you focused on building relationships? (The latter is the right response)

3. Developing new levels of self-confidence without being pompous or arrogant?

4. Creating a buzz from your elevator speech, networking and Social Media activities?

5. Learning communication and sales strategies from a mentor in your field?

6. Asking trusted colleagues or friends for honest feedback on your marketing materials, presentations, and communication skills?

7. Blogging, making video’s and watching online conversations to head off negative customer service mentions and problems?

8. Listening and learning from top-notch public speakers on how you can improve your presentations?

9. Reading trade publications and books to help you with the learning curve?

10. Effectively using traditional media (print, radio & TV) to publicize your company?

11. Taking advantage of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in your articles, press releases and posts?

12. Providing valuable content and authenticity in your blogs, articles and newsletters?

13. Asking quality questions and truly listening to people?

14. Approaching others with a positive attitude that communicates success, excellence and credibility?

15. Communicating results and value to prospects and clients?

16. Building bridges instead of walls in conflicts and disagreements?

17. Effectively using your body language and voice to build rapport and trust?

18. Energizing people you spend time with or dragging them down with negativity?

19. Offering your expertise to other professionals through their radio or video segments, blogs or newsletters?

20. Shifting your mindset and communication from “What’s In It For Me?” to “How Can I Be of Service?”

Above all, do you have the passion needed to have an amazing 2010?

It’s important to take stock and think about what has worked and what may have fallen short. All of this, and your willingness to learn, can produce huge results in the coming year.

Filed Under: Blogging, Business, Communication, Marketing, News, Online Marketing, Public Relations, Social Media, Writing Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

The 45 Commandments of Public Speaking

by at 9:53 am 11 Comments

Public speakingPublic speaking is important in the business world. It allows you to showcase your expertise, services and talents…and helps build your self-confidence. It can also help to build your business (I am living proof). You may be asked to provide a presentation to a few colleagues in your office conference room or speak to 50 people a professional networking meeting.

Moses had 10 Commandments but I’m offering 45–The 45 Commandments of Public  Speaking.

  1. Thou shalt know your audience and what their challenges are.
  2. Thou shalt never belittle or embarrass a person who asks a question.
  3. Thou shalt always arrive early and be prepared and relaxed.
  4. Thou shalt network with the audience before the program begins.
  5. Thou shalt have a memorable open and close.
  6. Thou shalt be able to adjust the length of your presentation on the fly if necessary.
  7. Though shalt engage and involve your audience.
  8. Thou shalt never turn your back on the audience (in other words, walk backwards)
  9. Thou shalt not hide behind the podium.
  10. Thou shalt not tell jokes or stories that could be offensive–to anyone.
  11. Thou shalt not read your presentation, speech or remarks.
  12. Thou shalt be able to deliver your presentation even if technology fails.
  13. Thou shalt not overclutter PowerPoint slides with too much text.
  14. Thou shalt stand on the right side of the screen so the audience reads the slide and easily moves their eyes back to you.
  15. Thou shalt be honest with Q&A; if you don’t know the answer, it’s OK to admit it.
  16. Thou shalt approach the platform or stage with confidence, poise and grace.
  17. Thou shalt be authentic and genuine.
  18. Thou shalt provide your own introduction and avoid having your bio read aloud.
  19. Thou shalt finish on time.
  20. Thou shalt dress professionally.
  21. Thou shalt share a story or two that reveals your personality and drives your message home.
  22. Thou shalt be aware of your vocal habits, pacing, pausing and inflection.
  23. Thou shalt prepare your presentation with relevant and concise information that flows logically.
  24. Thou shalt look in the mirror and check your appearance before the presentation.
  25. Thou shalt use your gestures, eye contact and body language to your advantage.
  26. Thou shalt understand how to effectively inject humor without using political, sexual or religious jokes or stories.
  27. Thou shalt set the ground rules for technology (Twitter, backroom, texting, laptops, etc.) with your contact person and audience before the program.
  28. Thou shalt know the power of silence and how to use it effectively in public speaking.
  29. Thou shalt work on developing your own natural style, charisma and delivery.
  30. Thou shalt understand the age group and learning style of your audience.
  31. Thou shalt get your audience thinking, feeling, reacting and involved.
  32. Thou shalt  accept compliments with a friendly smile and “Thank You” after the program.
  33. Thou shalt keep your hands open as to welcome comments, input and ideas from participants.
  34. Thou shalt maintain control of your audience when leading activities and small group exercises.
  35. Thou shalt keep your jacket open as a closed jacket indicates you are hiding something.
  36. Thou shalt smile!
  37. Thou shalt not use an overhead projector and transparencies.
  38. Thou shalt bring a few prizes or giveaways to offer to audience members.
  39. Thou shalt be energetic and not eat a heavy meal before presenting.
  40. Thou shalt mentally prepare for success and eliminate anxiety and nervousness.
  41. Thou shalt exude a positive attitude.
  42. Thou shalt get the logistics of the room and program at least one week prior to the session.
  43. Thou shalt learn the industry lingo of your audience so you can connect with them.
  44. Thou shalt occasionally record your presentation and critique it for improvement.
  45. Thou shalt know that people will not remember your PowerPoint, they will remember you and your  message.

Stand out and be memorable!


(Photo Credit: Jonny Goldstein)

Filed Under: Business Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

99 Ways to Improve Your Communication

by at 6:48 pm 28 Comments

4 people in photoboothStrong and effective communication skills are critical to your business success.

Here are 99 nuggets on speaking, writing, networking, interviews, and social media  that  you can use to supercharge your business communication skills. Off we go!

1.  Believe body language. It doesn’t lie.

2. Remember that every statement or comment does not require a response.

3. Choose your words carefully.

4. Speak and write with clarity.

5. Read whenever possible; it expands your vocabulary.

6. Be aware of your speech patterns and habits, including inflection, pacing and tone of voice.

7. Avoid interrupting people. We’re adults. One voice at a time.

8. Keep slang at home.

9. Stay away from “empty” words such as “Frankly”, “Really,” and “Actually”

10. Prepare an outline when writing a speech, long blog post or article.

11. Focus conversations on other people, not yourself.

12. Weave names into conversations. Everyone’s favorite word is their own name.

13. Use dark backgrounds and light colored fonts for PowerPoint slides.

14. Insert silence and pauses into your speeches and conversations. They are more powerful than words.

15. Diffuse conflicts without technology. Plan a face-to-face meeting or a phone call to resolve issues amicably and quickly.

16. Develop the fine art of charisma. Don’t be a “crap magnet.”

17. Write to express, not to impress.

18. Engage your listener, reader, and audience with material that is clear, concise, and compelling.

19. Ask good questions and you’ll get good information.

20. Listen with your mouth closed.

21.  Use the “P-R-R” method when answering questions: Pause, Reflect, Respond.

22. Greet the janitor and the CEO of the company in the exact same way.

23. Smile and use eye contact. It’s the universal language.

24. Know when to speak up and know when to shut up.

25. Follow the 5 P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance (public speaking).

26. Respond to controversial or off-color comments with these three words, “Isn’t that interesting?” Then smile. It’s a neutral statement and dead-ends virtually all conversations. In a pleasant way, of course.

27. Improve your communication skills by observing positive role models you admire and respect.

28. Show value when reciting your “elevator speech.” Focus on the results you get for clients, not your job title.

29. Speak from the heart.

30. Follow a written agenda in meetings to save time and stay on task.

31. Make all important phone calls before noon.

32. Ask for the sale, then be quiet.

33. Walk the walk and talk the talk. Be congruent.

34. Stay away from industry jargon and rhetoric that can confuse people outside of your field.

35. Identify where your ideal clients hang out and go there (this is true for bricks and mortar and social media)

36.  Avoid writing emails and making phone calls when you are angry or frustrated.

37. Write your blogs consistently so people can gain insight into your expertise, experiences, and personality.

38. Learn Emotional Intelligence (empathy, self-awareness, and teamwork) to improve your  communication skills.

39. Understand the importance of self-promotion and personal branding.

40. Walk into a room tall, strong, and proud.

41. Look for similarities, not differences. This bridges communication gaps.

42.  Listen to what is not being said.

43. Avoid criticizing, complaining, and judging.

44. Record yourself on audio or video to hear and see how you move and behave.

45. Answer the phone standing up and smiling.

46. Look in the mirror before you go into a meeting.

47. Give all of your attention to the person who is speaking. Avoid distractions and “darting eyes.”

48.  Turn off your technology when at a professional business meeting or event.

49. Avoid excessive and distracting clothing patterns, jewelry, make-up, and accessories- especially when you are the speaker, tv guest, or recording a video segment.

50. Be relevant and memorable.

51. Use gestures to empasize your spoken words.

52. Follow the leader. If he speaks fast, you speak fast. If he is slow, you should be slow.

53. Connect with people by being authentic and genuine.

54. Stay on message.

55. Dress like the person you aspire to be.

56. Build rapport with people.

57. Keep your jacket open. A closed jacket sends a nonverbal sign that you may be hiding something.

58. Have a good handshake. Practice with someone you trust and get their feedback.

59. Thank someone when they offer a compliment (don’t argue!)

60. Save political, religious, sex, and other controversial jokes or stories for outside of your  professional circles.

61. Respect the personal space of others.

62. Avoid planning your answer in your head when someone is speaking. Pay close attention to what they are saying and then respond.

63. Write with bullet points and white space so your information is ”reader-friendly.”

64. Have a powerful opening and closing in your presentations, speeches, articles, and blog posts.

65. Highlight benefits, not features, in your marketing and sales materials.

66. Create videos that are 1-3 minutes in length and are punchy, engaging, and valuable.

67. Write tweets of less than 125 characters; leaving space for people to retweet and spread your message.

68. Connect with people’s emotions by using real-life examples and sharing stories.

69. Avoid keeping your reading glasses on and “looking down your nose” when speaking to others.

70. Emphasize important words or phrases by lowering or raising your voice, or slowing down.

71. Exude positive energy in both your written and spoken words.

72. Understand the importance of making small talk.

73. Avoid biting your lip and inside cheek when speaking to someone (signals anxiety or nervousness)

74. Project your voice with authority.

75. Use smiles as positive reinforcements.

76. Express gratitude.

77. Re-read, and if necessary, rewrite everything before you send it, speak it , or share it.

78. Maintain eye contact, but not at a level that can make someone feel uncomfortable.

79.  Keep your palms open when you ask questions, which indicates you are open-minded and welcoming.

80. Recognize when it’s appropriate to use a “social hug” to greet someone.

81. Avoid the word “stuff.” It’s vague and unprofessional. Be specific.

82.Write an article for your e-zine or newsletter that  includes interesting quotes and statistics.

83. Drink alcohol on your personal time.

84. Steer conversations to positive topics.

85. Dress appropriately for tv interviews and videos by finding out about the background colors, lighting, and set design.

86. Have a mission or value statement that has repeatability so others can communicate it for you.

87. Use your body language to your advantage when delivering a speech. Don’t hide behind the podium.

88. Watch for cultural differences in communication styles.

89. Remember that enthusiasm is contagious.

90. Point your feet away from someone if you want to leave the conversation.

91. Respond to comments on your blog or website so it’s interactive and engaging.

92. Leave your personal life outside of business conversations.

93. Show respect and spare people’s feelings. Don’t blame or insult anyone.

94. Delete the word “just” from your vocabulary. It’s belittling. You are not “Just an accountant” or “Just a recruiter.” You are an accountant. You are a recruiter. Be proud.

95. Stop over-apologizing. You’re not responsible for the poor service, rain, or world peace.

96. Resist the temptation to finish other people’s sentences.

97. Open your eyes, ears, and heart to new messages and people.

98. Be the fountain, not the drain. 

99. Stand up if everyone around is standing and sit down if everyone is seated. Be on a level playing field.

If you want to master the art of business communication, I invite you to sign up for my free 21-day video series, “Speaking of Communication.” You’ll receive a wealth of information on PR, social media, interpersonal communication, sales, and leadership.  

(Photo Credit: Toothrot)

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