The festive season is here! Cue twinkly lights, mince pies and a flurry of work events. Whether you love a good get-together or need a bit of a nudge to join in, this can be your chance to connect and show up as the best version of you. I’m not just talking about donning a […]
How to make the most of office parties (or any other event you’re attending). Read More »
Questions and interruptions during a presentation can feel unsettling, especially if you’re already nervous about public speaking. Some people worry they’ll be thrown off track or asked something they can’t answer. That worry can lead to self-doubt and a loss of momentum. The good news is that with a bit of preparation and some simple
How to handle questions and interruptions during a presentation (without losing focus). Read More »
If you run a business, you’ll probably find yourself presenting more often than expected. Whether pitching to investors, updating your team, or talking to potential clients the way you present makes a real difference … good presentations build trust while poor ones do the opposite. Rehearsal is key to feeling confident, but too much practice
How to rehearse without sounding rehearsed. Read More »
Recently, I had to get something of ours fixed. It doesn’t matter what it was, let’s just say it was big, used regularly, and its absence was very inconvenient. The initial visit was promising. The technician came out quickly, diagnosed the issue, and told me they needed to get a quote for the part. “It
Why ghosting your customers is never good service. Read More »
Why do some people assume that their teams are driven only by pay rises, perks, or promotions? While these are certainly important, they’re rarely what creates long-term motivation. In truth, people want to feel heard, valued, and have a purpose, and the way you communicate with them can make all the difference. If you’ve ever
What really motivates your team? Read More »
In a world where instant replies and knee-jerk reactions dominate headlines (and social media feeds) it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that fast equals strong. Recent high-profile spats between Donald Trump and Elon Musk are a stark reminder of how reactive communication can overshadow reflection, erode credibility and escalate tension. But what
Why delaying your response can be a strategic advantage. Read More »
Reflections from a Bucket List Adventure April was a dream come true – I finally ticked Japan off my bucket list! We packed a lot into our 12-day adventure, exploring Tokyo, Hayama, Hakone, Kyoto, and stopping in Kamakura and Odawara along the way. We were lucky enough to be there during blossom season, and it
What can we learn from customer service in Japan? Read More »
My father was an erudite man with a love of language and a great pun. A true wordsmith, he had a vast library of books that he frequently consulted when writing speeches or presentations. When he died some 30 years ago, I inherited some of those treasured volumes. And while I may not share his
How my father introduced me to some great insults! Read More »
We’ve all been there … standing in front of a room full of people, our heart racing, palms sweating, and words threatening to tumble out in a rush or refusing to come out at all! Whether it’s a presentation, a high-stakes meeting, or an important conversation, staying calm under pressure is essential for effective communication
How do the best communicators stay calm under pressure? Read More »
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to students and older job seekers about how to make the best first impression at an interview. Lots of questions have ensued, but one of the key areas of concern was how to make sure you come across as professional and engaging during a
How to master the art of presenting online. Read More »
