Messaging Skills Archives

In Business, It’s Personal…

by David Mears

It's just business - nothing personal." How often have you heard someone use that phrase to justify a decision based on the bottom line, even when that decision created pain and problems for employees or customers? It's called the "It's just business trap," and it can sabotage your organizations ability to succeed. Here's how to avoid it.

by David Mears

Conversation Skills, Messaging Skills, Presentation Skills, Presenting to Executives

Are Acronyms Hurting or Helping Your Communications?

by Brad Holst

I’ll be the first to admit that the proper use of acronyms can benefit listeners. First and foremost among the benefits is increased memorability. But, overusing acronyms unconsciously can be damaging and abusive to listeners. Here are 3 keys to using acronyms effectively in your communications. And, don't miss the fun and illuminating Mental Floss video on what many of our most-loved acronyms and initials really stand for.

by Brad Holst

Conversation Skills, Messaging Skills, Presentation Skills, Selling Skills

Video Content Strategies for 3-Minute Videos

by Heather Muir

Here are our top strategies for creating impactful 3-minute videos to help you connect with audiences, whether you need to engage with your employees, or wow your customers.

by Heather Muir

Messaging Skills, Presentation Skills, Video

Making a Thank You More Meaningful

by Steve Mandel

Expressing thanks not only makes you feel good, it makes the recipient of your thanks feel seen, heard, and valued. Saying "Thank you" is a small act with a potentially big impact. It can help you build rapport and make your future interactions with people, both, more memorable and rewarding. In business, this can be especially helpful. Today, I thought it fitting to share a few tips for making a “thank you” as meaningful as possible.

by Steve Mandel

Conversation Skills, Messaging Skills

Where’s the Fire in Your Belly?

by Steve Mandel

When you present to senior executives, you expect scrutiny. You know they'll be evaluating whether what you have to say is of value to them. But, there's something else they're looking for from you.... And, it's further proof that when the stakes are high, both what you say AND how you say it can make all the difference.

by Steve Mandel

Conversation Skills, Executive Presence, Messaging Skills, Presenting to Executives, Sales Readiness, Selling Skills

Entering the (Executive) Lion’s Den

by Brad Holst

Many people feel like they're being sent into the proverbial lion’s den when they have to present to senior executives. While there's reason to be wary, take a lesson from Androcles: Find the thorn and pull it out. Here's how to turn scary lions into career-building advocates.

by Brad Holst

Conversation Skills, Executive Presence, Messaging Skills, Presenting to Executives

To Innovate, Resonate and Differentiate

by Brad Holst

Success or failure happens in just the first two minutes of any presentation. When you're laying your most innovative ideas on the line, here's how to stand out and win the attention and respect of your audience.

by Brad Holst

In-Person Presentations, Messaging Skills, Presentation Skills

How Many Slides Should My PowerPoint Be?

by Brad Holst

When it comes to creating PowerPoint® slides, less is more. Why, then, are so many presentations too long? Because presenters make the same mistake I once did. This week, I'll tell you about my experience and give you a simple recipe for creating short slide decks that help you get your message heard.

by Brad Holst

Messaging Skills, Presentation Skills, Presentation Slides, Slide deck

What Every Businessperson Can Learn from an Entrepreneur

by Brad Holst

By necessity, entrepreneurs understand something that other professionals can take a lifetime to learn. Learn this lesson early, and it could make the difference between career success and failure.