Communication Without Wires
The ways in which we communicate are always changing. What used to be done on a strictly face-to-face basis has changed so greatly that you may never actually meet the person you’re communicating with. Yet, improving the ways in which we communicate in general begins with face-to-face communication, according to Stacy Hanke, co-author of Yes You Can: Everything You Need From A to Z to Influence Others to Take Action. Follow some of her simple steps to improve how you communicate:
- Increase your awareness. Regardless of what method of communication you choose, pay attention to how your listener receives your message. Learn how what you say affects people.
- Pause more often! Slow your speech down and reduce your use of non-word fillers, such as “um” and “uh.”
- Connect or contact. Make sure your listeners understand what you are saying by establishing eye contact. Listen carefully to what the other people are saying or they might lose interest.
- Confident entrance. Do you walk into a room like you belong there? Within seven seconds, others determine if you’re confident or uncertain, so walk in with good posture and make eye contact.
- Use technology wisely. Choose the best communication medium for each situation. The more important the subject, the more likely it should be discussed in person.
- Gesture to create a positive visual impression. When your gestures and speech convey the same information, they’re easier to understand.
- Speak to be heard! Speak in an appropriate volume using the 1–10 scale. When speaking to a group of 15 or more, be around a 7 or 8. Adjust according to group and room size.
- Use fear as your motivator. Allow your fear of presenting to propel you forward. Doubt is good; it raises your awareness so you pay more attention and focus on what is at hand.
- Speak less and listen more! Pay more attention to your audience. Listening reveals what’s important to your listeners.
- Make discipline your new habit. You need to want it bad enough to begin making face-to-face communication your priority today. Practice these tips and ask for constructive feedback.
Celebrate Health!
Knox College in Galesburg was recently recognized as one of the “Healthiest Companies in America” by its health management program, Interactive Health Solutions, Inc. Knox was one of just 34 companies nationwide to be honored with the award, which was based on the results of the 2009 health screening program held on campus. After screening 80 percent of eligible Knox College employees and spouses, 67 percent were considered healthy.
Just for Small Businesses
While new domain extensions are released every year, it’s not often that they’re targeted specifically for small businesses. This year, however, .co, which is universally associated with the word “company,” will become available. The registry for this new, meaningful and memorable domain is wide open, allowing small businesses to acquire the name that will enhance their company’s position online and help customers find them more easily.
Killing Time at Airports
Delayed flights can lead to excruciating wait times, but it doesn’t have to be so bad. In his book, Please Hug Me, I’ve Been Delayed, musician and author Jeff Michaels suggests several tasks you can work on to alleviate boredom at the airport: scroll through the contacts on your cell phone and delete those you no longer speak to, review your financial portfolio, back up your laptop hard drive, or get your shoes shined. If you still have time, clean out your wallet or purse, or give your mom a call. She’ll be happy to hear from you!
Tara Gerstner was hired as the first executive director of the Peoria Promise Foundation in 2008, when she moved to Peoria from Tucson, AZ with her husband, Dr. Greg Gerstner, and two small children. Since then, she has become very involved with the community, serving on boards for the Better Business Bureau, the Peoria Cancer Center Foundation and the Peoria Ballet. She is an active member of the Junior League of Peoria and a Community Leadership School Graduate.
My Faves… Restaurants
Apple’s Bakery
Wonderful food and atmosphere. A great place for a meeting or a friendly lunch. Apple’s Bakery is very involved in the community and supports Peoria Promise in many ways!
One World
Unique and tasty menu items. Come join us for some great food on Wednesday, August 11th, and support Peoria Promise.
309
The newest place in town! With a combination of a casual, comfortable atmosphere and fantastic food, you can’t go wrong. If you haven’t tried it yet, join us on Wednesday, August 11th and support Peoria Promise with Dine Out for the Promise.
Kelleher’s Irish Pub
Great food, good people and is participating in our Dine Out for the Promise kick-off event on August 9th! Hope to see you there!
Cyd’s
They have fantastic cupcakes and cookies, and their turkey sandwich and pot pie are to die for! Plus, Junction City is a great place to do some shopping. iBi
