Treat Workplace Meetings as valuable resources that come with a huge cost. So, as with any resource, make sure you use them effectively and efficiently:
Interpersonal Communication
Training for Success
So, how do you train employees in small businesses so they have all the skills and abilities they need to be successful? Here are some best practices from clients who have created effective and efficient … and profitable … learning cultures.
Dealing with Angry Customers
Of utmost importance is having a well-defined policy in place that senior management participated in creating and signed off on and that everyone who touches customers understands, embraces and follows consistently. Periodic re-training or review can be helpful. Components of that policy should include:
Ain’t Nothing’ Soft About It
Allow me another ‘I Don’t Get It’ rant. This time … I Don’t Get ‘Soft Skills’.
Delegate Your Way to Success
A reporter recently interviewed me about the Art and Science of Delegation. Thought you’d enjoy my comments as well.
Time Out for Productivity
Besides serving clients as a workplace communication consultant, trainer and executive coach, I’ve also delivered workshops on Time Management and Process Improvement over much of my career. I even include these topics in my work with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Initiative. That’s why a reporter asked for my thoughts on improving office productivity. Here’s a summary.
Make Listening Work
Listening? What does that have to do with your job as a business professional? Well … a lot, when you view your role as a workplace communicator and problem-solver for your internal and/or external customers.
I Don’t Get It – Quotes
I Don’t Get It why people use quotes so poorly! Clients tell me that my use of quotes is effective in my training and speaking engagements and in the articles I write, probably because I don’t overuse them and they relate to and support my content.
Stop Using ASAP ASAP!
If you’ve been reading my periodic articles on workplace writing and communication techniques and strategies in ‘Communicate Confidently!’, you’ve encountered one of my favorite rants – ‘Specific beats Vague’. So, whenever you have a choice between a vague word, like ‘several’ and a specific word like ‘four’, opt for the specific word.
How Good is Your Greeting?
What kind of first impression do your customers and prospects get of your business when they get your voice mail greeting? Is it enthusiastic and professional? More important, is it concise and helpful? Or, does you greeting sound more like this one?