Applying for a JOB You only get one chance to make a first impression so do your homework, arrive on time and look smart. Imagine you are going out on a first date. Five of the best tips when applying for a job * First do your homework           Before you apply for a job…

  Make Thinking TIME  We all have one thing in common – a 24 hour day. It’s how we use that time that makes the difference.             The way you think determines the way you act and the way you act will decide not only your future but also the future of the business you…

 Coping with HECKLERS The world in a turmoil today, hecklers and hostile audiences are common during elections.           Handling hecklers requires care and skill. Dealing with interjections is a high-risk activity.  In most cases, the audience will be on your side and resent interjections.           Risks are minimised if you deal with your subject in…

Thanking a guest SPEAKER When you are asked to thank a guest speaker there are a few simple rules to follow. Keep it; Short, Sweet, Simple and Sincere.                          When a guest speaker has finished addressing a meeting, the chairperson usually asks a member of the audience to propose a vote of…

Introducing a Speaker A good introduction gets a speaker off to a strong start.           The role of the introducer is to arouse the listeners’ interest so they will direct their attention to the speaker and the topic.           By mentioning specific interests you can create an atmosphere which makes the audience more receptive and…

Asking  for a VOTE Its election time again for many people.           If you are a candidate your success will depend on your communication skills.           Today mass media presentations have largely replaced the old-fashion political speech. Electronic messages, letter to the editor and media interviews can reach more people than public meetings.     …

DISPLAYING & EXHIBITING             Displays and exhibits must get their messages across quickly. Displays should contain simple messages.             Good displays and exhibits should arouse interest and get people to take some form of action. Most fail to do this.             Many displays are cluttered and contain conflicting messages and…

  Make a memorable PRESENTATION When preparing your presentation keep in mind the fleeting nature of oral communication.           Focus on a simple clear message. Be brief, sincere, enthusiastic and seated.           Having carried out recall exercises in many countries I am now in a position to share tips on simple ways to make your…

Ways to ACHIEVE There is nothing like a dream to help plan your future. You must start doing all things well –  the simple things and the difficult things.          Success is ten percent inspiration and ninety percent perspiration.          The secret is to have a tenacity of purpose, get to know people of influence…

TEAM Bonding             To be a good leader at work you need to possess the three H’s, Humanity, Humility and Humour.           By bonding, you can build a better relationship with your team.           High- performance organisations have moved beyond autocratic leadership styles into cooperative approaches where management and staff share their visions and…