"Pick My Brain" Is a Terrible Thing to Ask For Every week, someone asks if they can "pick my brain." They mean well. They're curious, they want guidance, they're reaching out — all genuinely good things. It's just that phrase. That phrase is not doing them any favors. Sit with the image for a … [Read more...] about Stop Saying ‘Pick My Brain’ — Here’s How to Ask for Someone’s Expertise
Business communication
The Real Test of Training is…
The real test of a training is what walks back into work the next day. Why leadership communication training must go beyond the workshop A recent training reminded me of something important: For years, I thought my job was to give people better communication tools. But better tools are only … [Read more...] about The Real Test of Training is…
If Your Message Isn’t Sticking, This Is Probably Why”
Recently, I sat in on an all-hands. And within minutes, I knew almost none of it would be remembered. Speaker after speaker stepped up. “Good morning…” “Thanks everyone…” A few slides. A few updates. By the third speaker, the room had shifted. Eyes down. Laptops open. Energy … [Read more...] about If Your Message Isn’t Sticking, This Is Probably Why”
Conquer Public Speaking Fear: Take the Quiz!
You’re not alone! Public speaking is one of the most common fears out there, but do you know what it’s really called? Take our quiz to uncover the name behind this fear and learn some surprising (and hilarious) facts along the way! 🎤😂 Think you’ve got the confidence? Let’s find out! Ready to … [Read more...] about Conquer Public Speaking Fear: Take the Quiz!
How to survive awkward party talk
Awkward Party Conversations You’ll most likely be at a holiday party in the next few weeks. And chances are you’ll find yourself in a conversation that has your internal voice screaming “AWKWARD”. Add these four tips to your survival strategy and you’ll breeze through the awkward party moments. Who … [Read more...] about How to survive awkward party talk
Want to Be More Comfortable Speaking Up at Work?
You have ideas. You have experience. You have something to contribute. So why does speaking up at work sometimes feel so hard? Maybe your heart speeds up before you ask a question in a meeting. Maybe you rehearse a comment in your head until the moment passes. Maybe you know your point … [Read more...] about Want to Be More Comfortable Speaking Up at Work?
If You Want to be a Leader, Follow This One Rule!
A Class on Power [alt: A Power Class] At the Stanford Graduate School of Business, students cram into a small classroom to learn about power. The class is called “Acting with Power,” and it’s taught by professor Deb Gruendfeld and a team of experts with a background in both professional theater … [Read more...] about If You Want to be a Leader, Follow This One Rule!
Deeper voice means more salary: True or False?
Does your boss have a deeper voice than you? Could lowering your voice increase your annual income? Even to pose the question seems ridiculous... particularly in light of all those years spent in MBA programs. But that's what a recent study may suggest. "...researchers found that executives … [Read more...] about Deeper voice means more salary: True or False?
April 1st: Pranks to fool your friends
3 of my favorite office pranks April 1st is a time to fool your friends with office pranks. It's the one time of the year where you are absolved from your prank by saying the phrase "April Fools". Jokes and pranks are a way to celebrate friendship. So...what are you waiting for....let the … [Read more...] about April 1st: Pranks to fool your friends
What do you get for free? Your body language is talking!
"What do you get for free?" This was the question that Bill Irwin, actor, clown and MacArthur 'Genius award' winner asked a small group of student clowns at San Francisco's world-renowned Circus Center. They looked puzzled. He went on to explain that performers are always trying to be someone … [Read more...] about What do you get for free? Your body language is talking!