Be your Audience

Be your guest!  Be your guest! For the Disney lovers (Beauty & The Beast)…. sing it if you must.  (and yes the lyrics are “be our guest” ….but let’s have some fun)

Always keep in mind one of the ‘magical’ rules of success—put yourself in your audience’s shoes.

Be your audience.

While I was raised with this great advice from my parents – “being considerate to others” was tied to good manners. 

But now as a businessperson I understand how important it is to business success.

Let’s test the theory.

Engaging Presentations:  Think about what your audience needs to hear, what are their interests or concerns. It is not about what you want to tell them.

Overcoming Presentation fear: Redirect your energy towards making it a great presentation for the audience.  How do you want them to feel after you are done? Make it about their feelings – not yours.

Successful negotiations:  Knowing what the other party needs is critical to a good negotiation & driving value for ‘both’ parties.

Career Advancement:  What does the company need from you?  What can you offer.  If you give that to them, then you have a great shot at advancement.

Effective Communication:  How does the other person take in information – “tailor” your communication style to maximize your audience’s understanding.  (one shoe does not fit all)

Great Leadership –  Is not about commanding (unless it’s the military😊).  It is about nurturing people’s potential.  Each person has something unique to offer -- so create the environment that helps them shine.

…and importantly!

Don’t forget YOU: While prioritizing others is key, it's equally important to maintain a balance with your own needs, that includes appropriate boundaries & being authentic to YOU.

So, as you navigate your career path - keep others top of mind, while being authentic to YOU.