Networking event, business mixer, after party…whatever you want to call it, these kinds of small-talk heavy events can be the bane of many people’s existence. That goes double if you are on the introverted side. We need to make conversation at these events, but how do you even start a conversation at a business networking event? Some…
Ever had to give a training presentation or speak on a topic that you didn’t have a lot of knowledge or experience with? What if you needed to deal with a snarky co-worker at the same time? Theresa has to deal with this, and she needs to demo a buggy software to boot! In this…
You can find Tina Varughese on Twitter @TinaVarughese Ever feel like you’re walking on multicultural eggshells? Diversity is a valuable asset to any organization – it increases things like happiness, profitability, and functionality – but it can be intimidating for people who are worried they’ll say the wrong thing or who feel like other…
You’re going to be speaking at an event – congratulations! Now comes the awkward, nail-biting task of writing your speaker’s bio so that you can be properly introduced. But what to put in the bio? How do you highlight your skills without sounding like you’re bragging or have an over-inflated ego? I know I’ve felt…
Today we’re tackling a question that I get All. The. Time. This question from Sandy is on a lot of people’s minds: Hi Lauren – you’re a very energetic presenter, and I’m hoping you can help me inject some energy into my presentations. I’m an civil engineer and need make lots of technical presentations. The…
You can find Mike Kerr on Twitter @HumoratWork Does your workplace have an office clown? Is your office environment one that encourages a hearty laugh, or is humor seen as something that isn’t sufficiently serious – or even unprofessional? Workplace that have a hearty dose of humor as part of their culture often boast…
Gearing up for a big family dinner party? Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, a wedding, or any other kind of family get-together, keeping the peace is no joke…especially when it feels like you’re constantly being provoked by relatives looking to pick a fight. In this Q&A, we have a sticky situation coming from…
Are you among the many (MANY) people who like to “take the edge off” before giving a speech with a drink or two? Whether you’re giving a speech at a corporate gala, acting as emcee for an event, or making a toast at a wedding, a quick drink before taking the microphone is a common…
Holiday party season is upon us! Once the ides of November hit, so to the holiday festivities, and you may find your calendar packed full of events that require schmoozing and small talk. Whether you love or dread these events, they’re important to go to – especially if you see them as an opportunity to polish…
Is your office embroiled in email warfare, with people sending passive-aggressive messages or getting worked up into a froth after taking an email the wrong way? Email can be a hotbed of miscommunication, but there are ways to ensure your emails are clear, effective, and are interpreted the way you intended. In today’s Communication Q&A…
