The Gabbett Group :: The Savvy Communicator: January 2005

Greetings!

Welcome to our newsletter. The Gabbett Group is a strategic communication company. We turn strong communicators into savvy communicators. And in the business world, savvy trumps strong.

We provide coaching services, seminars and keynote speeches on all aspects of powerful communication. We also offer editing and website video services. We work with executives, managers, entrepreneurs and professionals to give them the business edge afforded only the most savvy communicators. You can learn more about our services at www.gabbettgroup.com.

Our clients know what we know - that the best communicators get the best jobs, the biggest promotions, the plum projects and the most lucrative clients, all while enjoying the healthiest, happiest relationships. Who doesn't want that?

In this monthly newsletter, we will share information, techniques and resources you can use to communicate your way to your own version of success. And we wish you great success.

Janie Gabbett, President

In this issue:

FROM THE PODIUM
BY THE BOOK
THE CLIENT NOTEBOOK
STUMP THE COACH
IS COACHING FOR YOU?

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FROM THE PODIUM

When faced with a big presentation to prepare, it is tempting to jump right into creating our content.

However, the key to a successful presentation is connecting with our audience. If we don't connect with them, they won't hear a word we say. If we do, they'll hang on every word.

So, before you start crafting those dreaded PowerPoint slides (which will be addressed in an upcoming issue), step back and ask yourself:

What five things do I know about my audience that can connect them to my topic?
What five aspects of my topic will be the most relevant to this particular audience?
In my opener, what can I tell about myself that will connect me to this audience and their interests?

A little research goes a long way. If you can't answer the questions above on your own, a few telephone calls to research your audience could be your ticket to success. Let us know how it goes.

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BY THE BOOK

This month, we recommend:

"Crucial Conversations: Tools for talking when the stakes are high" by Kerry Patterson, Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny & Ron McMillan.

As the new year begins, the past year's performance is assessed and new goals and objectives are set. This process can be filled with difficult conversations. These authors offer thoughtful strategies based on solid research.

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THE CLIENT NOTEBOOK

Have you ever put off a difficult conversation? I know I have. And yet, no matter how hard I hope, the problem rarely goes away on its own. A client of ours recently faced such a situation with one of his employees. After analyzing the issue and getting clear about the intended outcome of this crucial conversation, we charted a strategy and even practiced the conversation. Not only was the conversation successful, but the bond between employer and employee was actually strengthened.

Our client did a number of things right to achieve this success. He:

got in touch with what he truly valued about this employee
got clear about the problem
separated the person from the situation
spoke honestly
solicited the employee's views and ideas
agreed on a way forward
set a time to review progress in the future

This has become a success model this client has repeated several times now. Problems no longer fester. And his employees are becoming more and more bold about coming to him with their own solutions as problems arise. Our hats are off to this savvy communicator.

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STUMP THE COACH

Have a particularly tricky communication situation? A team that doesn't talk? An employee who doesn't listen? A client who needs to hear something they are not going to relish? Email us at info@gabbettgroup.com and we will give you our insights privately or in our next issue.

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IS COACHING FOR YOU?

Find out if coaching is for you by requesting a free one-hour session focused on a communication challenge you are facing.

CONTACT US to learn more about the Gabbett Group and to book a keynote presentation, a seminar or a coaching session at 847-679-4604 or email info@gabbettgroup.com.

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