Whenever you communicate with anyone you are crossing a bridge. You are trying to get part of what’s in your mind into the uncharted territory of their minds. This is always a non-trivial process. Because every person you speak to has their own … [Read more...] about Perception = reality
Build, don’t copy
There’s nothing new under the sun, but that doesn’t mean that your idea should be a copy of someone else’s idea. First of all, the internet exists, so everyone will find out. Second of all, it’s not respectful of your audience’s time to sell them on … [Read more...] about Build, don’t copy
Idea/conversation fit
Having a great idea is essential, but so is situating that idea within or adjacent to an existing conversation. Idea/conversation fit is the communications version of product/market fit. The market doesn’t buy what it doesn’t understand or recognize. … [Read more...] about Idea/conversation fit
A provocative and useful idea
Every great communicator has a truly provocative, useful idea. Your delivery is vital, but if you’re delivering boring crap, who cares?? You need an idea that doesn’t just get your audience’s attention. It makes them think, talk, and act. A … [Read more...] about A provocative and useful idea
Giving the right gifts
You know that whenever you speak to your audiences, you must give them a gift. Because when you give a talk it’s never about you, it’s about your audience. But how will you know when you have given them the gift they need most? When your great … [Read more...] about Giving the right gifts
Do I have a good idea?
I give a lot of advice on how to come up with great ideas and great messages. But how do you know when you’re there? You know your vision and message are on the money when: Your audiences listen to your message and ask for more content. You … [Read more...] about Do I have a good idea?
Why can’t they see me?
The 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer found that 56 percent of respondents believe business leaders are “purposely trying to mislead people by saying things they know are false”. But you are not like the other business leaders that are lying! You are a … [Read more...] about Why can’t they see me?
Who’s with you?
A majority of people believe business leaders are “purposely trying to mislead people by saying things they know are false”, according to the 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer. This is not good for you, business leader. But instead of raging that you’re a … [Read more...] about Who’s with you?
It’s not your fault
People don’t trust corporations. The 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer found that 56 percent of respondents believe business leaders are “purposely trying to mislead people by saying things they know are false”. I think that’s called lying. Ouch. When … [Read more...] about It’s not your fault
But what’s an evangelist?
What is an evangelist really? After all, we’re in business, not at a tent rally! An evangelist is someone who sees and believes in something so much that they spend a ton of energy reaching out to you to help you see and believe in it too. An … [Read more...] about But what’s an evangelist?