Slow down, clam up to sound smarter
If an executive stops and asks you a question, don’t make the big mistake of spitting out your words in a harried rush, figuring that you have only a few seconds to impress the brass.
Category: Speaking
When to shut up and just listen
Here are two situations when keeping your lips zipped will enhance your reputation as a good listener
Cut the clutter from your reports
Answer the question “What do you want?” or “What should I know?” in the first sentence of your memo, report, e-mail or other piece of business writing, and your time-strapped, information-overloaded readers will see you as a hero.
Grammar Repair Shop: Comma or semicolon: which one to use?
Several readers recently asked us about the use of semicolons versus commas in a complex sentence.
How to stop interruptions cold
People who interrupt when you speak don’t simply annoy; they block your ideas and opinions. Exert authority with these techniques
Project confidence when you speak
Boost your persuasive powers by exuding poise when you speak. Use these five tactics:
Words, Words, Words: June ’20
Write it right, say it right, spell it right.
Don’t set presentations in stone
Writing and memorizing a well-researched presentation guarantees … well-polished boredom. Build flexibility into your delivery to better connect with your audience. Use these four tactics for deviating from your script.
Grammar Repair Shop: A simple solution to an ‘article’ query
Problem: Patricia Cain, Philadelphia, asked whether to use “a” or “an” before the initialism SCSR, for senior customer service representative. Lesson: The key is whether the sound that follows the article is a consonant or a vowel sound. If you read SCSR aloud, the first sound you pronounce is a vowel sound, “ess.” Therefore, use […]
Little words leave big impressions
In new situations, the first words out of your mouth (like, you know) can leave a lasting first impression. While you don’t want to come across as overly formal or stilted in your speech, you do want to be professional and well-spoken. (And the little words you “say” online can leave an even longer lasting first impression.)