In our fast paced environment, listening is a skill that takes patience and the ability to stay focused on the conversation. The biggest challenge is usually allowing the other person to finish their thoughts. I know I have been guilty of interrupting a speaker.

So, my tip is to count to ten to ensure the conversation has finished before you begin. Also, if you have interrupted because you thought the person was finished speaking, immediately apologize and let the other person complete his or her thought.

When you interrupt you may not hear that golden nugget of information critical to the solving the problem or miss learning something important.

When you smile the whole world smiles too.

• The average woman smiles 62 times per day.
• The average man smiles 8 times a day.
• 63 percent of people say they look best in photos when they are showing their teeth.
• 99.7 percent of adults say an attractive smile is an important personal asset.
• 74 percent of people say that an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s chances for business or career success.
• 23 percent of people say they look best with their mouth closed.

Just recently I was completely surprised and completely caught off guard when given an award. In cases like this often, you hear folks either ramble on and on or go completely blank.

These are the keys to saying a few brief but impactful comments:

1. Take the time to walk up to the stage. This gives you an opportunity to collect your thoughts.

2. Share a story or a fact that will honor the award. For example, you might mention how the organization impacted you.

3. Give thanks to those responsible for you receiving the honor.

Remember these critical elements and you will always give a heartfelt, appreciative and graceful speech.

In a recent Chicago Tribune, Rex Huppke’s column addressed the value of being a nice person. In today’s work environment where results are critical there never seems to be enough time for niceties. This includes small talk such as how the family is doing or did you enjoy your vacation?

It has been proven may times that just taking a minute or two eases the way before we dive into everyday business work issues. Also, when giving feedback, be inclusive. The main goal is to strengthen social skills not tear them down.

A prized quality of a stellar reputation is being thought of as fair and nice.

The new emphasis today for management is to find individuals who are passionate about their work. This really has always been true. In fact, you can tell the person who is passionate about their work and commitment to high standards. It comes natural to them. They are always looking for ways to innovate. 

I know that the job market is tough. And getting promoted within companies has become even tougher because of competition. This is why it is important to find the right professional fit. You want to release your passion so your job does not become work. 

How do you determine what creates the passion for you? Begin with two columns on paper. In one, write down every time you do something that resonates with you (brings you joy). In the other column log the things you do that you don’t like.

Maintain this log for awhile. You will see as you begin to review it over time that it will clearly show what you are passionate about.

In today’s business climate, with unemployment at all-time high, you can run the risk of trying to be someone else. Judy Garland said it the best, “Always be a first rate version of yourself instead of the second rate version of someone else.”

Begin to take inventory of what is it that you want and how you want to come across in an interview. The basics do not change. They are to engage your interviewer and be honest in your communications.

If something does not sound right, ask a question to confirm you understand what is being said. In other words, what you hear is what it means to you. Keep these things in mind and you will be a first rate version of yourself.

Many times if we could reframe a situation or picture it differently it will change perceptions. So think of reframing is having a different attitude or perspective.

This is especially important if you feel you have been treated unfairly. Recently a client was given notice that his position would not be needed. So, for a few days he walked around with an attitude like he was wronged and the organization owed him.

However, once he reframed his attitude, began to smile, say hello to people and not talk about how poorly he had been treated, he felt better and so did those around him. This also helped him when he interviewed for a position in another organization. He got hired in a more senior position and with better compensation.

It amazing how many folks do not realize how important the smile is. A smile engages those around you. It adds warmth to you and gives warmth to others. It changes the perception of who you are.

The Definition of Smile

As a verb: Form one’s features into a pleased, kind, or amused expression, typically with the corners of the mouth turned up: “smiling faces.”

As a noun: A pleased, kind or amused facial expression, typically with the corners of the mouth turned up and the front teeth exposed.

Remember the expression, when you are smiling the world smiles with you and when you are crying you cry alone.

When you are attending an event as couple, the person who has the tie-in to the event is the one to determine when to leave. The rule of thumb is that the time to exit and who suggests it to the host should be discussed before the event.

Also, do not depart in a herd. This means to wait and give the host space to properly say good bye. Follow these guidelines and you will always exit gracefully.

Recently, a CEO had to resign because of a resume embellishment. Time and time again we hear about high ranking executives not being honest about their backgrounds, usually regarding educational degrees.

If the person is not performing and has not built relationships a company will find something to use to get rid of you. The truth always comes out. So, honesty it is always the best policy.