Thursday, November 27, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER REFLECTS ON THANKSGIVING DAY

This morning I picked up the paper and there was an article about how families are spending time together -- not just on holidays. People were making meals together and they are playing games together.

When I grew up in the country on an apple orchard in Wisconsin, it was part of our regular life to have all of us together for dinner. Often, after the dishes were washed, we went to the dining room to play games such as Monopoly, Sorry or just plain cards. It didn't cost a cent and there was plenty of laughter.

Another article talks about how a mom had asked her three children to write down five things that they were thankful for this holiday. On the list, there was not one "thing" mentioned -- instead they talked about their mom and dad, brother and sisters, or something that they had all done together.

Maybe the need for "things" this holiday seasons is not important as time spent together.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

What if this year you give your employees some time off instead of spending money on gifts they may not want or need so they can spend more times with their families.?






Tuesday, November 25, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER HAS A DAY FILLED WITH CONTRADICTIONS

It seemed the challenge of the day was to keep upbeat. Headlines in my morning paper, especially the business section, brings more news of lower profits. Turn TV on and the news says, we haven't seen anything yet!

Friend loses her job with the same group after 26 years. Sister reports a health issues, though not life threatening not good news. Miss an appointment because I forgot to write it down.

Weather miserable, cold and raining.

AND then a phone call from a friend who has landed a great job in his field of interest--no question this is a path where he can use his innate skills. Couldn't be happier for him. I had introduced him to his new employer.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:


A very wise mentor told me years ago something that I thought was a very strange thing to do. He said, "When something good happens and you were part of it, write it down. You will forget how you impacted others. When you get down, that is when you should pick up the special book where you are recording your actions." I am going to make a new entry tonight and read my book.



Thursday, November 20, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER WORKING ON THE REVAMP OF HER WEBSITE

Presently, I have a good website. Yet, it was time to take my site to a new level. After researching, I hired a firm in Portland, Oregon. Art4orm http://www.art4orm.com

Today I reviewed the final narrative and now it is in their hands to work their magic. I have already approved the overall design that we will be using. Now they put the narrative in the proper places and add pictures that I have been collected over the last four months.

We're a couple of weeks away from launching the site live. Very excited about that and with the launch comes a BIG announcement about my book "It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's all about Communication."

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

http://www.trendcentral.com

I highly recommend the site listed above to keep up on trends in food, clothing, and technology. More than once I was surprised about what I was reading. The world is moving fast, a tool to keep up!

Sunday, November 16, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER SUBMITS SPEAKING PROPOSAL
It is pretty interesting how one sits down in front of the computer and "thinks" she is going to whip out a proposal in about an hour. Even with all the proposals I have written, I am still amazed how different the wording and the requirements are for each proposal that arrives. I found myself sitting in front of the computer for three hours working to make the proposal "just right."

Working on a new proposal gives me the opportunity to see if I want to change the structure of one of my presentations. In my case, the answer usually is yes since I have a huge need for variety and certainly don't want to get bored giving my own presentations. My life provides me with all kinds of ways to find information that I want to share.

At any rate, even though it Sunday, I dropped it in the mailbox.....it is out of sight and out of mind until the decision is made.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Ideas come when you least expect them. Make sure you carry a notepad or your use your Blackberry to record "Your Great Ideas". I have learned those "good ideas" disappear from your mind quickly when you get busy.







Saturday, November 08, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER GOES TO WORDSTOCK IN PORTLAND TO LEARN ABOUT THE PUBLISHING WORLD

Writing a book takes skill. In addition, it takes dedication. I still still remember how difficult it was sitting in front of my computer the last two months. I did learn how important it was to make yourself a deadline so that you keep on task.

Now that the book is published the process of promoting it seems to bring new learnings each day. Today I went to Wordstock in Portland, Oregon. Gathered together were publishers, printers, and writers sharing the excitement of their crafts.

This was a world I hadn't experienced before. I made some good contacts with Portland State University and the University of Oregon. Yet, more importantly, I came away more committed to continuing my writing.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Anthony Robbins once told a group of us that it is important to take yourself out of your normal life so you can get a different perspective. For example, city dwelllers would benefit from visiting a farm. If you work in the high-tech industry, a visit to a school where the focus is the arts.








Thursday, November 06, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER TUNES IN ON WEB SEMINARS ON TWITTER AND FACEBOOK

Planned my day so I would be home for the seminar about how to use http://www.twitter.com
First thing I learned was that it was not good I had signed on as "Funcoach", needed to use my own name. That was easy to change in the profile section. Lots of tips--looks like I will be spending even more time in front of the computer.

This afternoon Mari Smith, the guru of Facebook, presented a seminar about effective use of Facebook http://www.facebook.com

I pleased to say Mari was my Executive Coach for an extended period of time. http://www.marismith.com

So there is much for me to do --- Yet, I have to say, what I have gotten done appears to be on the right track.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

No question social networking is becoming essential for one to use for her marketing efforts. Both trainers stressed it is about developing relationships.....note it is the same thing as meeting in person. People do business with people they like and know.

You can add yourself to my Twitter list: http://www.twitter.com/kathycondon






Monday, November 03, 2008

EXECUTIVE COACH, SPEAKER AND TRAINER HEADS TO OCEAN PARK, WASHINGTON BEACH

The month of October seems like a blur. Family health issues, helping a friend out who has a cancerous brain tumor and then getting a bug that was hard to shake. Felt like I wasn't getting a grip back on my life. So called my favorite resort at the beach. It was available, so headed there for three days.

Packed my car with favorite food, filled the car with gas and headed out. About a half hour out I could feel myself relaxing. The drive along the Columbia River was spectacular as the fall leaves were at peak color.

Got to Long Beach and bought a dozen oysters in the shell, stopped at my favorite bakery and arrived in the brilliant sunlight at the resort. Unpacked, poured myself a glass of wine and just looked at the ocean.

This morning, as I was getting ready to return home after three terrific days, I realized how different I felt. Frankly, I am proud of myself for figuring out just what I needed to renew myself.

Oh yes, sand dollars are common on the beach this time of year --- I'm pleased to say I found one--it was just waiting for me.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

When people ask you to join their social network, make sure you know them or that you interview them and you feel confident they are good at what they do. Remember you are judged by the people with whom you hang around with......