Jody White, Speaking Directly

Opportunity. Experience. Knowledge. As a long-time Toastmaster, I continue to look for ways to sharpen my speaking and leadership skills to be ready to make a presentation to a local organization or club meetings. Years ago I believed that at some point, I would know it all and not need to do anything else. Of course, I learned that it doesn’t work that way because progress takes constant planning and execution. So how do these three simple yet powerful words that work together keep me motivated to press on to achieve my speaking and leadership goals? Opportunity.   My fellow Toastmasters know that I am all about opportunities and I say "Yes!" as many times as possible. There were times the early days of my membership when I almost backed out of giving a speech. I am so glad I didn’t because I had a great time and would have missed out on meeting people or learning something new. This also including creating opportunities for yourself by talking with others a...

Mentoring can be a "win-win" relationship for both parties if they are ready to provide positive and honest communication. I have had several Mentors who gave me feedback on my speaking skills and leadership opportunities and who were positive people in my life. What Mentors provide is a personal observation of how improvements can be made with ongoing progress. Mentors can also help you if you are looking for a new career or project to complete in your life's journey. They can connect you with other people in the profession you are inquring about, lead you to people experts in the field or be a good listener as they work their way through the process. I value the insights and feedback from Mentors, family and friends; however, I have found Mentors who have specific talents are more effective to provide solid feedback and value experience. I take that information and look at my growth and progress and decide if that feedback is what I needed to move forward...

Be on time (better yet, be early). Don’t make people wait on you for a meeting or social activity. Be there 15 minutes early and be ready. If it means you need to drive to a location the ‘day before’ to get your bearings, then do it. Show respect of other people’s time. Dress for Success – If you don’t think the way you dress makes a difference; think again! People may not tell you it makes an impact; but it does. If you are unsure of the ‘attire’ for a meeting or activity; ask or just ‘dress up’ to be sure. Confidence Makes a Difference – A confident person is an asset. Keep your EGO in check; you’ll have more meaningful relationships that are beneficial to you and others. Be Happy . Sometimes it is tough to be happy but it is the BEST way to keep your mental health in check. Making yourself SMILE really does make you feel better; try it! Keep your word . If you make a promise to someone; KEEP IT! If you cannot follow through; tell th...

Good manners and proper etiquette are at the very core of how we communicate with one another,” says Denise Dinyon, Lenox gift-giving and etiquette expert. “We need to develop and reinforce those essential courtesies that make our relationships strong, valuable and long-lasting.” She offers the following etiquette tips, which are easy to incorporate into everyday life: 1. Turn the cell phone off. -- completely -- during a luncheon meeting, social function, or on public transportation. 2. Hold the door -- whether male or female, hold open a door you have just passed through for the person behind you. 3. Bring a gift for the hostess -- preferably one that doesn’t require her to drop everything she is doing. 4. Keep to the right -- on the sidewalk, in stairwells. 5. Say please and thank you -- to waiters, flight attendants, store clerks, cab drivers -- the little things go a long way. 6. Circulate at a party or social gathering -- whether hostess or guest, the people...