Jody White, Speaking Directly

Job interviews can be scary because you don't know what kinds of questions they will ask. However, you CAN be prepared for anything they 'throw' at you! Search the web; there are many lists out there by Human Resources departments that you can practice answering. Below are some tips I have developed to help you prepare to ace that next interview. 1) Attire  - a lot of people think that 'what you wear' shouldn't have any bearing on you getting a new job. Problem is, interviewers want you to prove just how important the position is to you.  ALWAYS dress professional - men in suits and ladies in professional dress or suit. Invest in a good pair of dress shoes (no open toe shoes or 'knee boots' for the ladies) If/when you are offered a position, you can ask about the 'dress code' for the company. 2) Know the Company - interviewers like when people ask them questions about the position AND the company. Search on the company on various sites to...

Below are elements of success that I have found to be important in my everyday endeavors! This is also a presentation that I have given to organizations...   Once you determine what SUCCESS means to You; incorporate these vital attiributes to help you in your journey!   Confidence is #1 - Makes you stronger! Be independent and proud of your skills and abilities. Daily accomplishments add up! Value and trust yourself. Know that you can do whatever you pursue.   Keep a Positive Attitude - Keeps you Motivated! Opens doors for opportunity and learning. Broadens the circle of people you know. Keeps you optimistic about the future. Gives you inspiration and courage. Boosts your “can do” spirit.   Determination & Follow Through - Key to Realizing your dreams! Motivates you to keep on track to your goals. Won’t let distractions or failures get in your way. Self-Discipline keeps you focused on what you want to do.   ...

Be on time (or 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 them why. They will appreciate your hones...

CAP-SOT) Annual Seminar On Saturday, January 25, 2014, I presented a 90-minute presentation to the Certified Administrative Professional Society of Texas (CAP-SOT) Annual Seminar in Houston, Texas. It was a group of 50 very talented and energetic women! My presentation focused on delivering your information or "message" to any group of people, such as a huge audience, a small group or one person. Below are the highlights from the presentation: Woodlands Area Chapter members: Donna Jenkins, CAP-OM ,Marina Valenzuela, CAP and Cindy Strawn, CAP-OM. What is a Message? It is the most important part of a  speech or presentation that you want others to remember. You don’t give formal speeches?   Everyday interactions are “mini” speeches Target Your Message Show interest in others to Pave your Way Deliver Your Message Effectively Be confident to Succeed Enhance your skills to Create Opportunities What you get in return Makes You B...

This is a great video from Taylor Mali who tells it like it is! Don't hem and haw; say it with meaning and conviction! http://www.wimp.com/speakconviction/

Did you know that looking at someone while they are speaking and truly "listening" to them is one of the highest forms of respect? Have you ever been talking with someone and they keep looking around the room as if they are waiting for someone to walk in? Or, they keep looking at their cell phone waiting for a phone call or text while you are talking to them about something important to you? I don't get it! Are they waiting on someone or something "better" to come along? I see it all the time in restaurants, meetings and coffee houses - everywhere! Making sure that you stay focused and engaged in a conversation is critical to a healthy and respectful relationship. The old "uh huh" just doesn't work and certainly doesn't lend itself to a positive situation. I've given many speeches at different functions and see people in the audience on their phones or looking out the window. If you are not interested, then leave the ...

You may not realize that the way you shake hands can affect your personal effectiveness. A weak handshake can make you appear less confident and unsure of yourself, especially in a job interview. I shake a lot of hands in my job and in Toastmasters and the first thing that impresses me is how they deliver that "all important" handshake. Be the first to extend your hand to people to anyone you meet and look them in the eye and smile warmly and sincerely; this shows interest and a positive attitude. Gently but firmly grip their hand, give two shakes then release; it's that easy AND important! When I get a 'weak' handshake, honestly -- it feels like a dead fish -- and doesn't give me a warm and fuzzy feeling. Practice on a friend, ask them how your handshake feels to them-- I bet they will tell you the truth! A great handshake can leave a great "first impression" and it's important to feel confident meeting new people.