The beginning of 2024 was a shocker for the earthmoving business that I run with my husband.

You can only lead when you know where you are now and where you are going. Then it’s a matter of deciding how you are going to get there.

Imagine a small café, "Brewed Awakenings," that has been experiencing a decline in customer satisfaction and sales. Customers frequently complain about long wait times, inconsistent beverage quality, and poor service. The café owner is concerned and wants to turn things around but is unsure where to start.

I’m well passed that stage of life (but do talk to me about coffee, HRT, books and dogs and you are onto a winner!). One of the quickest ways to improve your communications is to apply the Rule of Relevancy…

I don’t know a single person who is a fan of cold calling (and I know quite a few people who work in sales). The reason for this is it sucks. And while it works, It makes you feel uncomfortable and awkward. And that’s why I like this video from Phil M Jones, international speaker, trainer and author of Exactly What To Say.

Let’s be honest - a lot of the stuff served up on LinkedIn is pretty dry. Not only is it dry, it’s self-serving. “Here I am drinking a coffee with X person at Y conference.” There are very few posts that seem genuine, new and useful. I think it boils down to three challenges: tone, relevancy and attention spans.