Unseen Package

Products and services are not only packaged in tangible containers such as boxes and bottles. Many companies and individuals, when they make presentations, place their thoughts, ideas, products and services in invisible packages seen not with the eye but with the mind. These unseen packages, like the visible ones, greatly determine how their content is perceived and received. How do poor Presentation Skills affect you as an individual/organization? How can you improve your unseen package and make it more appealing?

Writer’s Block

Ever found yourself or your employees sitting behind the computer just staring into space? Ever wondered “where do I begin from” or “how can I capture a particular discussion or activity?” Are you looking for ways to cut down on the hours of your precious time that are wasted on struggling to write a report? Writer’s block is not a phenomenon that only novelists and other career writers encounter; it’s the common experience of a countless number of people charged with the sometimes daunting task of writing a report. Discover how to overcome the many challenges faced in Report Writing and learn how to write concise, accurate, and coherent reports.

Leader or Boss?

Are you a leader or a boss? It’s easy to be in charge and to be the one who gives all the instructions, but, do the members of your team understand and identify with your corporate/group vision? Does every member of your team clearly understand and execute what is expected of him/her, or do they keep getting it wrong? Is your team motivated and mindful of the set goals and objectives, or does it seem like they really don’t care about them? Leadership Communications is a key leadership skill that distinguishes leaders from bosses. Find out how you can become a more effective leader.

Spotlight

The saying, “All publicity is good publicity” truly does not apply to most groups and organizations. This is because very often when they are hit with negative publicity, they suffer heavy losses that include damaged reputation and financial losses. On the other hand, no publicity is not good either; for many companies have to vie for media attention and coverage in order to maintain a competitive edge. The art of engaging the media’s attention whilst still ensuring that the close scrutiny does not result in the release of unfavorable publications is a priceless tool that all organizations need. Find out about effective Media Engagement.

Silent Assassin

Certain unfortunate scenarios, which could have been easily avoided if somebody had known about it early enough, sometimes hit organizations. An employee everybody thought was very happy with his job hands in his resignation or a department that feels slighted by another expresses its dissatisfaction by intentionally delaying submission of deliverables to that department. Organizations must promote an atmosphere of openness and create systems that encourage a free flow of, not only information, but ideas, feelings and a sense of shared purpose, in order to avoid such scenarios. Find out how your organization can ensure effective Internal Communications.

That Can Be You

Don’t fall for the common misconception that great speakers are born and not created.

Many people have resigned themselves to the fact that they are just not cut out for public speaking. They don’t see themselves ever overcoming their stage fright, inspiring an audience, or being articulate and delivering their message with clarity.

Communication is a most powerful organizational tool, yet it is often sidelined by organizations even as they seek to pursue their goals amongst people they hardly communicate with.

Esther A. N. Cobbah

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, STRATCOMM AFRICA