Speak As Well As You Think

Storytelling for Influence

This month, we're discussing Storytelling as an influential tool. People tend to remember a story long after they forget the data. A great message may inform, but a great story can help people feel the message. We discuss a few specific areas: 1. Why stories influence better than information alone 2. Where we see stories show up, and why they work 3. Some common mistakes people make with their stories Storytelling can be an effective tool in so many areas; you just need to know how to tell the right story.

Why eye contact matters

This month, we're talking about eye contact. We've all heard we should look at people as we speak, but what exactly does that mean? How long do we look at them? How do we move when there are multiple people to look at? If it feels awkward to the speaker, does it come across awkward to the listener? All great questions. Here's what we unpack: 1. Why eye contact matters 2. What does your eye contact communicate 3. How to vary it based on the setting/situation 4. When and how to practice it

Overcoming Communication Anxiety

We're talking communication anxiety this month. Nervousness is an age-old topic that we really can't discuss enough. This month, we'll cover: 1. Common causes of communication anxiety 2. What it can look and feel like to the speaker and audience 3. Ways to manage the feeling in the moment 4. Some long-term approaches to alleviating nerves

Persuade without being pushy

In today's episode, we're discussing persuasion at work. It's an element of many people's jobs, so understanding its importance and how to create a safe and comfortable space for persuasion to live is important. Here are a few things we'll discuss: 1. Persuading is not convincing; it's alignment 2. Know what your audience wants or needs (one we always talk about) 3. Create credibility by asking questions and listening just as much as you talk 4. Knowing when to take a step back and maintain your image/trust If people leave agreeing but not acting, persuasion didn't happen.

Setting SMART Goals using clear communication

It's January, so of course, everyone is focused on goal-setting for the year to come. As you plan your goals out, consider a few things: * Set SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) * Be realistic - lofty goals are fine, but know how you're going to get there * Communicate your goal(s) clearly to yourself and others * Check in often and reflect on how the goal is going - make changes if necessary Going in with a plan helps breed success. Understanding that failure is sometimes part of a goal creates consistency in showing up. Being clear and reflective with yourself allows room for adjustments or getting back on track.