Show, Don't Tell

Effective communication is about the receiver understanding the message. Books like Presentation Zen & Back of the Napkin are great examples of the power of visual communication. The next opportunity you have to present an idea, remember these three steps:

1) Right beats Left
We are better at visual recognition than we are at verbal description. This concept it based on verbal overshadowing. Our left brain thinks in words while our right brain thinks in pictures. When explaining, use visual cues to clarify your message.

2) Tell a Story
It's much easier to listen to a story than comprehend bullet points. For example, when using PowerPoint engage your audience with high quality photos. Don't bore them with data. Images supplement your story. Take them on the journey with you.

3) Imagine...
Did you know this is most powerful word in the English language? "Imagine" registers the most powerful emotional response. (Why do you think Disney uses it so much?) Include this word in your talks to paint the picture of the ideal future.

Selling yourself is about the package and the product combined. That means how you present is as important (if not more) than what you present. The next time you pitch an idea, remember to show, don't tell!

Ready to become a visual presenter?
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Does your Process lead to Progress?

Process is defined as a series of actions to achieve your desired result(s). Results are the name of the game, but how you get there is extremely important. Let's look at 3 ways to build a better process:

1) Visualize
Process is a means to an end, so what is your target? Structure your process to reach your goals. Never lose sight of the big picture. Track progress based on your destination.

2) Value-Based
What are your top 3-5 core values? Your moral compass guides your decision making. Authentic choices come from doing what's right, not what's easiest. Stick close to who you are.

3) Vacate
We can only be great in a couple of areas. Figure out what's important and purge the rest. Prioritize, delegate and drop what's not important. A successful process is spending time on what matters.

Building a better process is about visualizing, being value-based and vacating excess baggage. Improving your process will result in making progress towards what's important and valued!

Ready to build a better process?
Partner with Coach Scott to identify your strengths, accomplish goals faster & boost your confidence!
E-mail Scott to start Growing Forward today!

Kobe + LeBron = Blue Flame

Scientifically, the blue part of the flame is the hottest. In business, the blue flame is where passion meets ability. Let me illustrate this point by using Kobe Bryant & LeBron James as examples:


Passion
Kobe Bryant's work ethic is unmatched. He is not the most physically gifted player in the NBA, but he is the hardest worker. He prepares to succeed. When it comes to your career development, what areas are you extremely passionate about? Imagine waking up each morning energized for work...

Ability
LeBron James is arguably the greatest athlete to ever play in the NBA. He's a basketball player in a football player's body. He is physically far superior to others. In your career, what are you talented at? Where do your strengths lie? Envision what do you do better than anyone else...

Blue Flame
Aim for the heart of Kobe & the talent of LeBron and you can achieve greatness in your career. What do you love doing? What gets you excited every time you think about it? Once you figure that out, identify what areas you are truly gifted in. Passion + Ability = Blue Flame.

"Figure out what you love doing & are great at, then find a way to get paid for it!"

Want to find your "Blue Flame"? Partner with Coach Scott to identify your strengths, accomplish goals faster & boost your confidence! E-mail Scott to start Growing Forward today!

Musical Careers

What should you be looking for when it comes to finding the right career "fit"? Here are three suggestions for what to look for in a career:

1) Purpose
We all want to be part of a cause greater than ourselves. Identify a company's mission statement. See if they are actively living it. Commit to an organization that is making a difference in the world.

2) Growth Opportunities
We all want to get better at what we do. Ask your employer what opportunities will there be to advance in the near future? Most people leave their job because they are bored. When it's not a challenge anymore, it's time to move on.

3) Autonomy
Look for companies that empower their workers. Autonomy is the freedom to accomplish goals by whatever means (style) is the most efficient for you. Autonomy is rooted in trust.

Does your current job possess these three traits? If not, it won't be long before you start looking elsewhere!

Ready to find the right career for you?
Partner with Coach Scott to identify your strengths, accomplish goals faster & boost your confidence!
E-mail Scott to start Growing Forward today!

From Client to Coach

I understand my client's struggles because I was a client before I became a coach. Today I wanted to share the Top 3 benefits I received from my coach:

1) Eliminate Blind Spots
Two brains work better than one. A coach can identify things you might have missed. It's this additional perspective that enhances your performance and optimism.

2) Faster Pace
Coaching is about results. I like accomplishing my goals. Having a coach makes that process happen faster. Weekly goal setting and accountability increases efficiency and accuracy.

3) Confidence
The result of weekly goal achievement is increased self-confidence. Feeling confident makes you feel like you can conquer the world. Momentum, when on your side, can be your best friend.

As a former client, coaching has made such a profound impact on my life, I wanted to pursue it as a career. This passion has driven me to provide the same experience for my clients.

Ready to try Coaching for yourself?
Partner with Coach Scott to widen your perspective, accomplish goals faster & boost confidence! E-mail Scott to start Growing Forward today!