Gilda Bonanno's blog

Gilda to Emcee WBDC Gala 10/23

2026-10-13T11:00:00.000-04:00

I'm honored to once again serve as Emcee for the Women's Business DEvelopment Council's Annual Gala & Awards Celebration on October 23, 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich, CT.

For more info or to purchase tickets, please visit https://ctwbdc.org/gala-2026/

© Gilda Bonanno LLC - Gilda Bonanno serves as a trusted advisor to executives and entrepreneurs to transform their communication, presentation and leadership skills. She has worked with companies on 4 continents, from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome. The instructional videos on her YouTube channel have received over 1.5 million views and her e-newsletter has reached subscribers in over 45 countries since 2008. For other articles or to receive Gilda's e-newsletter, visit www.gildabonanno.com

Gilda Bonanno to Speak at TEDxWestport on November 8

2026-10-07T10:30:00.000-04:00

I’m pleased to share that I’ll be speaking at TEDxWestport on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Westport Town Hall.

My talk, “The First 30 Seconds: Creating Connection with Someone New,” explores something most of us experience regularly: meeting someone new and wondering what to say, how to make a good impression, or how to keep the conversation going.

That inward focus can make an already uncomfortable moment even harder.

In the talk, I’ll explore how small shifts in attention, curiosity, listening, and nonverbal communication can help us move beyond trying to seem interesting or impressive and instead make genuine connection easier from the very beginning.

The topic brings together several themes that have been part of my work for many years—from leadership communication and executive presence to networking, improv, and human connection in both professional and personal settings.

TEDxWestport

Sunday, November 8, 2026

4:00–7:30 PM

Westport Town Hall Auditorium

Westport, Connecticut

If you’d like to attend, visit TEDxWESTPORT.com and use speaker code SPEAKER30 for 30% off.

The talk will also be recorded and posted on the official TEDx YouTube channel. I’ll share the video once it becomes available.

Eye Contact Is a Skill

2026-09-30T13:13:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno

When you’re giving a presentation (whether in person or online) eye contact is one of your most powerful tools. Eye contact communicates confidence, credibility and connection. It shows that you’re engaged, that you care about your audience and that you know what you’re talking about.

But like every part of communication, eye contact takes awareness and practice.

Why Eye Contact Matters

When you make eye contact, you project assurance. You’re not buried in your notes or distracted by your slides - you’re present.

Eye contact communicates warmth and confidence. In Western cultures, it also conveys respect and attentiveness. (Of course, that’s not true everywhere; some cultures view lowering the eyes as a sign of respect. If you’re presenting internationally, always be sensitive to local norms.)

Practice Makes Natural

If you’re not comfortable with eye contact, you can practice it like any other skill.

Try doing a practice run of your presentation where you focus only on eye contact. If you can rehearse in front of people, that’s effective. If not, use objects in your environment: the water bottle, the lamp, the picture frame, the corner of your laptop screen.

Hold each point of focus for about three to five seconds as you complete a thought, then move naturally to another.

In a small group, aim to make eye contact with every person. In a large audience, aim for every section. You’re not staring; you’re connecting. If someone is uncomfortable with the eye contact, they can look away.

Virtual Eye Contact

Eye contact becomes more difficult online. In fact, lack of eye contact is the number one issue I see in virtual presentations.

On Zoom or Teams, your natural instinct is to look at the faces of your participants, your slides, or the chat, but from the audience’s point of view, that looks like you’re looking away.

True eye contact happens through the camera, not the screen. That’s where your audience experiences your “eye contact.”

To make this easier, move the gallery of faces to just under your camera. That way, you can glance at people while still appearing to look directly at them. Watch how newscasters or sportscasters do this - they’re looking straight at the camera, and it feels like they’re talking directly to you.

If you’re sharing slides, alternate between looking at the screen and returning to the camera.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Good virtual eye contact also depends on setup. Your camera should be at eye level. If your laptop or tablet sits too low, you’ll end up looking down at your audience; if it’s too high, you’ll look up at them. The fix is simple: elevate your device on a stack of books or a box until the camera is directly at eye height.

Before your meeting, log in a few minutes early to test your framing.

Take a quick screenshot or photo to double-check that your eyes are level with the lens.

Final Thought

Whether you’re speaking to five people or five hundred, in person or online, your eye contact tells tell your audience something powerful: I’m here. I see you. I’m confident and I care about this conversation.

That’s what turns communication into connection.

And that connection is the difference between simply delivering information and truly engaging your audience.

Gilda to teach for The Campaign School Training 10/24 - register now

2026-09-25T16:52:27.524-04:00

TCSYale: The Basics - Oct. 24, 2026 in Westport, CT

Saturday, October 24, 2026
10:00 AM 3:00 PM

For more info or to register, please visit: https://www.tcsyale.org/register

The Story of Time - Fairfield Public Library Sept 28 6pm

2026-09-22T13:10:00.000-04:00

Conversations that Matter with VJ: The Story of Time

Monday, Sept. 28, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 pm | In person

Fairfield Public Library, 1080 Old Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824

What is time? We measure it constantly, organize our lives around it, and feel it passing but explaining what time actually is remains one of humanity’s deepest challenges.

In this fascinating and accessible talk, we will trace the story of time from the movements of the Sun, Moon, and stars to the invention of clocks and calendars. We will explore Newton’s idea of universal time, Einstein’s discovery that time can speed up or slow down, and the mysterious “arrow of time” that carries us from the past toward the future.

Along the way, we will consider why time seems to move faster as we grow older, whether the universe had a beginning, and whether time itself is a fundamental part of reality or something that emerges from deeper laws of nature.

No scientific or mathematical background is required, only curiosity about one of the greatest mysteries of existence.

Speaker: Dr. Varghese "VJ" John is a teacher, coach, and speaker dedicated to helping people think more clearly, learn more deeply, and perform at their highest level. His work spans mathematics, physics, technology, and leadership, where he designs learning experiences that cultivate curiosity, rigor, and confidence.

With a background as a physicist and technologist, VJ has developed creative solutions to complex scientific challenges and led sophisticated technology initiatives for leading financial institutions. Today, he brings that same analytical precision and thoughtful innovation to education - helping learners move beyond memorization toward genuine understanding. A key aspect of his current work is guiding people to use artificial intelligence thoughtfully and responsibly, emphasizing human judgment, critical thinking, and practical application over hype.

Through interactive talks, workshops, and coaching programs, VJ engages audiences of all ages in exploring complex ideas with clarity and confidence, encouraging resilience, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

For more info or to register, please visit: https://fplct.librarymarket.com/event/conversations-matter-vj-169128

Learn as Much as You Can - And Adopt a Growth Mindset

2026-09-14T13:01:05.874-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno

It’s back-to-school season. Students of all ages are heading into classrooms and college students are beginning a new semester. But this time of year is also a good reminder for the rest of us: learning shouldn’t end when formal schooling does.

One of the most important skills you can develop in your career isn’t technical - it’s your ability to learn.

The mindset you adopt about learning profoundly shapes the way you lead your life and build your career. If you believe you can grow, adapt and figure things out, you expand your possibilities. If you believe your abilities are fixed, you quietly narrow them.

Pay Attention to the Voice in Your Head

When something feels hard, many of us hear a familiar internal voice:

· I’m stupid.

· This is too hard for me.

· I’m just not good at math.

· I’m not creative.

Many of the limits we accept about ourselves come from outdated messages: one bad class, one critical comment, one comparison to someone else. Over time, those moments turn into labels and labels quietly shrink our opportunities. Struggle is not a sign of stupidity; it’s a sign that you’re learning.

Replace Labels with Curiosity

A growth mindset asks us to be more careful with the language we use especially with ourselves. Instead of saying “I’m bad at this,” try asking:

· What don’t I understand yet?

· What could I learn here?

· Who could help me think this through?

This shift matters because growth-minded people don’t avoid difficulty. They expect it. They embrace challenges, persist through setbacks, and seek mastery rather than approval. They understand that intelligence and ability are not fixed traits but they can be developed through effort, feedback and experience.

Here’s the truth: most career-defining abilities are skills, not talents. Writing, analysis, communication, creativity, leadership and technical skills can all be learned. You may not love every challenge, but don’t opt out simply because something is uncomfortable or unfamiliar.

Learn Everywhere, All the Time

Learning doesn’t only happen in classrooms. In fact, some of the most meaningful learning happens outside formal settings, through experience, observation and experimentation.

To learn as much as you can:

· Get out of your comfort zone

· Learn through formal and informal programs

· Learn on the job and on your own

· Ask questions, read widely, listen carefully and observe

· Be curious and creative

· Ask for help

· And replace self-limiting labels with the belief, “I can figure this out.”

That belief, more than any credential, will shape your career. And that mindset will serve you long after any single role or title has changed.

Four Career Principles for Long-Term Professional Success

2026-08-25T07:07:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

At every stage of a career, it is easy to focus on the next visible milestone: earning a promotion, finding a better opportunity, developing new skills, changing direction or preparing for what comes next. Those decisions matter, but they are not the foundation of long-term professional success.

When students ask me what really matters for their careers, they often expect a checklist: the right major, the right internship or the right first job. Yet the same principles I share with them apply equally to experienced professionals, senior leaders and anyone navigating a career transition.

In nearly two decades of working with clients across many careers and industries, I have come to believe that long-term success rests on four simple principles. They are relevant whether you are just beginning your career, advancing within an organization or redefining what success means at a later stage. They are not complicated, but they do require intention.

In nearly two decades of working with clients across many careers and industries, I’ve come to believe that long-term success rests on four simple principles. They’re not complicated, but they do require intention.

1. You Are Responsible for Your Career

This is both empowering and, at times, uncomfortable. Managers, mentors, advisors, colleagues, family and friends can and should help. But at the end of the day, no one else owns your career but you. You are the one making choices, taking (or not taking) risks and deciding what comes next.

That responsibility can feel stressful, especially early on. But it’s also good news. Because if you’re responsible for your career, you’re not waiting for permission. You’re not stuck hoping someone else will define your path. You get to shape it.

2. You Define Your Own Career Success

We live in an age of constant comparison. Scroll through LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook and it can feel like everyone else is ahead, with better titles, better jobs and better lives. That comparison game is exhausting and worse, it’s misleading. You’re comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.

Career success is not one-size-fits-all. You don’t need to borrow someone else’s definition. For you, success might be:

The kind of work you do
The people you work with
The industry or mission
Financial security
Flexibility or freedom
Growth and learning
Impact

Or some combination of all of these.

Your definition may also change over time. What matters early in your career may be different from what matters as your responsibilities, priorities and circumstances evolve.

The key question is simple, but powerful: What does success mean to you? Not to your parents.

Not to social media. Not to your peers. To you. When you’re clear on that, your decisions become much easier and much more grounded.

3. You Need Others

Even though your career is your responsibility, it is not a solo journey. No one builds a meaningful career alone. Along the way, you will need mentors, advisors, supporters, sponsors, colleagues and people who open doors.

Your success is shaped by trust, collaboration and people who believe in you enough to invest their time, energy and credibility.

So ask for help. Seek guidance. Build genuine connections. Be generous with your own knowledge, encouragement and support. The strongest professional relationships are reciprocal and develop over time.

4. Integrity Matters

Finally, how you build your career matters just as much as what you achieve.

Your integrity (who you are when no one is watching) will follow you longer than any title or résumé line. Every career presents moments where you’re tempted to cut corners, blur lines, or compromise your values “just this once.”

A simple test can help:

Would I be proud to explain this choice to someone whose judgment I respect?
Would I be comfortable seeing this decision on the front page of the newspaper or all over social media tomorrow?
Does this action align with who I want to be?

If something feels a little “off” or uncomfortable, pay attention. That discomfort is information.

Over time, your principles become your reputation. And your reputation becomes one of your most valuable career assets.

The Bottom Line

You are responsible for your career.

You get to define what success means.

You will need others along the way.

And integrity always matters.

If you build your career with these four principles in mind, you will be better positioned to create meaningful, sustainable success - and to be proud of the path you took to get there.

Polishing Your Virtual Presentation Skills

2026-08-12T07:03:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

Virtual communication has become an essential part of how we work and lead. Yet, many professionals still make small mistakes that can undermine their credibility and connection.

The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can ensure your virtual presence is clear, engaging, and effective.

Set the Stage

Start with the basics. Position your camera at eye level so you can make direct eye contact with your audience. Invest in a good microphone and speakers. Audiences will forgive imperfect video, but poor audio quickly loses their attention. Bandwidth also matters, so use the strongest network available in your space.

Your background sets the tone as well. If you don’t have a professional setting, use a clean wall, or a blurred background.

Poor lighting is another common mistake. The light should be placed behind the camera and focused on your face. This helps your audience see your expressions and stay connected to you.

Show Up Professionally

It may sound obvious, but grooming and attire matter virtually just as much as in person. Treat every virtual meeting as a professional appearance.

And always be prepared for when things go wrong, whether that’s a technology glitch, a dropped call, or an unexpected interruption.

Be Engaging in the Box

One challenge of virtual is energy. On camera, you need to bring more energy than you would in person because it has to travel through the screen to reach your audience. Practice being dynamic and animated, even when you can’t see participants’ faces.

Your voice is equally critical. Keep it clear, energized, and varied in tone—avoid speaking in a monotone that can bore listeners and make it easy for them to disengage. Record yourself or ask for feedback to ensure your delivery works well online.

Finally, remember to monitor your facial expressions, especially when listening or thinking. Neutral or positive expressions show engagement and prevent “resting thinking face” from sending the wrong signal.

Virtual presentation skills aren’t about perfection - they’re about allowing you to be your best self. With practice, preparation, and polish, you can turn your virtual presence into a powerful tool for connection, collaboration, and impact.

Gilda to Teach for The Campaign School at Yale virtual training 8/14

2026-08-05T08:09:27.049-04:00

I’m delighted to be part of the faculty for this one-day, nonpartisan training with Patricia Russo and The Campaign School at Yale alums! Whether you’re considering running for office, working on a campaign, or becoming more involved in your community, this is a great place to begin. Join us online!

Friday, August 14: 10am-3pm ET

Storytelling: The Skill That Transforms Good Presenters into Great Ones

2026-07-30T11:30:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno

The most powerful presenters don’t just share information, they tell stories.

Stories engage the heart as well as the mind. They bring your ideas to life, turning abstract concepts into something your audience can feel, remember and act on.

That’s why storytelling is one of the most sophisticated (and human) presentation skills you can develop.

Stories Come in Many Forms

You can tell stories with words, of course, but also with numbers.

A clear chart, a meaningful trend line, a well-designed dashboard - all of these can tell a story when crafted with care. They can reveal patterns, progress, and purpose.

But here, let’s focus on stories told with words.

Make It Relevant

The first rule of effective storytelling in presentations is relevance.

Your story should connect directly to your point. If your audience can’t tell why you’re sharing it, it becomes a distraction rather than a tool.

Adapt your story to the audience. Adjust the length, detail and language depending on who’s in the room. Senior leaders might want concise, high-impact stories; a training group might enjoy more context and detail.

And remember: practice telling the story out loud. The first time you tell a story, it’s probably too long. There’s extra background, unnecessary detail or too many detours. Rehearse it until it’s focused, natural and lands exactly where you want it to.

Read the Room

Good storytellers are tuned in to their audience’s reactions. If people laugh unexpectedly, pause and let them enjoy the moment.

In speaking, this is called not stepping on the laughter. If you keep talking over it, you interrupt the connection you just created. Instead, pause, smile, and then continue when the room settles.

Storytelling is as much about listening as it is about talking.

Why Stories Matter

Everyone has stories, about clients, projects, challenges, and lessons learned. Yet many professionals hold back, thinking, “I should stick to the facts.”

But stories bring facts to life.

They make data human and ideas memorable. They help people not just hear your message but feel it.

Storytelling is one of the oldest forms of communication in every culture. Long before we had slides or spreadsheets, or even writing, humans learned, taught and connected through stories.

It’s how we remembered, how we shared wisdom and how we built trust. That hasn’t changed.

Final Thought

You already have stories worth telling. The challenge is to use them intentionally to make your message resonate and your presentation memorable.

Because facts may inform your audience, but stories connect them to you.

And the good news? Storytelling isn’t an innate talent. It’s a skill, one you can practice, refine and master.

Can You Watch Yourself on Video?

2026-07-22T10:30:00.000-04:00

Why Watching Yourself on Video Is a Powerful Learning Tool

by Gilda Bonanno

One of the most effective ways to improve your communication skills is also one of the most avoided: watching yourself on video.

Early in my career, one of my first contracts involved filming people during presentation skills training. This was long before cameras on smartphones.

We used large video cameras you carried on your shoulder, that used physical high 8 mm tapes that had to be played on special machines. I remember carrying all that gear through New York City on a sweltering subway in the summer, then filming participants and handing them their tapes at the end of the session.

And then something disappointing happened. Most of those tapes were never watched.

The Real Reason People Avoid Video

Over the years, I’ve learned why. Many people say some version of the same thing:

· “I hate how I look on camera.”

· “I hate how I sound.”

· “I can’t watch myself.”

Here’s the truth, said with care: that is how you look, and that is how you sound. And clearly, you’re doing fine in the world. You haven’t been shunned from society. You have relationships, a career and people who value you.

The discomfort in watching yourself stems from your unfamiliarity. You’re not used to seeing yourself how others see you.

Yes, the camera does exaggerate things. It adds shadows, highlights wrinkles and captures moments we don’t see in the mirror. But avoiding video because of that means opting out of one of the most powerful feedback tools available.

From Discomfort to Data

The breakthrough comes when you stop watching yourself with judgment and start watching with curiosity.

I’ve watched myself on camera enough times that I no longer think, “Is that really how I look?” I think, “What can I learn here?” That shift turns video from a source of anxiety into a tool for growth.

Nothing makes me sadder than hearing a smart, capable professional say, “I can’t watch myself on video” - because I know the powerful learning tool they’re missing out on and I know they’re reinforcing their negative self-image.

How to Use Video Productively

To get real value from video review, separate reflection from emotion and make it actionable:

1) Watch the video twice.

First, with sound, focusing on clarity and content. Is your message clear?

Then, muted, focusing only on delivery. Notice posture, gestures, facial expressions and energy – do they support your message?

2) Write two “Keep” notes (to continue doing) and one “Improve” note (to change for next time).

This builds confidence and creates focused progress instead of overwhelm.

3) Do another recorded practice session within a week.

Practicing again soon helps lock in improvements and build muscle memory.

A Final Word

This matters for everyone. Do not let discomfort with your appearance or a distorted self-image block access to a tool that can help you grow, lead and be more effective.

Watching yourself on video isn’t about vanity.

It’s about learning.

And learning requires showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Mastering the Art of Networking

2026-07-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

Networking is one of the most effective ways to build professional relationships, discover new opportunities, and advance your career.

Whether networking happens in person or virtually, the core principles remain the same: curiosity, authentic connection, thoughtful conversation, and consistent follow-up.

Successful networking begins before the event starts and continues long after it ends.

Many people find networking uncomfortable or intimidating at first, which is completely normal. The goal is not to “work the room” perfectly, but to approach conversations with preparation, curiosity, and follow-through.

Before the Event: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before attending a networking event, take a moment to clarify your purpose and how you want to present yourself.

Define Your "Why"

Ask yourself: Why am I attending this event? Your goal will influence how you approach conversations.

Are you:

Looking for a job or internship?
Hoping to contribute to your profession or simply learn from the speaker?
Attending out of curiosity, with no specific agenda?

Being clear about your purpose ensures that your time is spent effectively and sets the tone for your interactions.

Know Your Personal Brand

Your brand is how people remember you - what they associate with you professionally. Think about the strengths, expertise, and qualities you want to be known for.

Ask yourself:

• What do people come to me for?

• What strengths do I want to highlight?

• How would I describe my expertise or goals in one sentence?

Craft Your Networking Message

When someone asks, "Tell me about yourself," you don’t have time to list everything you’ve done. Instead, tailor your response to the specific audience. Think of it like a billboard message—short, clear, and relevant. Your introduction may change depending on who you’re speaking to:

At an industry event, you might highlight your technical expertise.
With fellow alumni, you might mention your graduation year and major.
In a more general setting, you might emphasize your broad skillset or career goals.

Being intentional about how you introduce yourself ensures that you make meaningful connections quickly and leave a lasting impression.

Prepare and Practice

In addition to crafting your introduction, think about key questions to ask and plan thoughtful responses to common ones. Then, practice saying everything out loud to build confidence and clarity.

During the Event: Engage with Confidence and Authenticity

When you meet other people, listen actively and be fully present. Focus on the conversation rather than just planning your response, showing genuine interest in what others have to say.

The Role of Body Language in Networking

Your body language should reinforce your message, whether you’re networking in person, on video, or over the phone.

• Eye Contact: This is where connection happens. In person, maintain natural eye contact. On video, look into the camera when speaking.

• Facial Expressions: A slight smile and attentive expression help convey interest. If you have a “resting thinking face” that appears frustrated, puzzled or disengaged, practice a neutral, attentive expression.

• Posture: Sit or stand tall to project confidence and approachability.

• Positive Energy: Your enthusiasm is contagious. A warm smile, an upbeat tone and a genuine interest in others make you more approachable and memorable.

• Practice & Awareness: Record yourself in virtual meetings to observe how you come across and notice habits such as poor posture, lack of expression, or overuse of filler words.

After the Event: The Follow-Up That Most People Forget

Networking doesn’t end when the event does. The real value comes from thoughtful follow-up.

• Schedule Time to Follow Up: Reconnect while the interaction is still fresh.

• Reflect & Improve: Networking is a skill. Take a moment to evaluate what worked and what didn’t. Take note of what felt natural, what was challenging, and what you want to adjust next time.

• Nurture Your Network: Networking isn’t just about getting—it’s about giving, sharing and building relationships. Look for ways to give, share, help, introduce, advise, or mentor.

• Keep People Updated: If someone has helped you, whether through advice, introductions, or job opportunities, don’t leave them in the dark. Send periodic updates to express gratitude and maintain the relationship.

By treating networking as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event, you’ll build meaningful, lasting professional relationships that benefit everyone involved.

10 Communication Habits That Help New Graduates Build Credibility

2026-06-25T17:20:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

As you enter the workforce, you’ll quickly discover that strong communication skills matter in every professional environment whether you’re working in person, remotely, or in a hybrid setting.

Technical knowledge and academic achievement are important, but your ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and professionally will often shape how others perceive your competence, leadership potential, and readiness for greater responsibility.

And in an era of hybrid work and AI-generated communication, strong human communication skills stand out even more.

Below are 10 practical communication habits that can help new graduates make a positive impression and build professional credibility early in their careers.

1. Make Eye Contact

In most Western business settings, maintaining appropriate eye contact conveys confidence, respect, and engagement. Whether you’re speaking with a senior executive, a client, or a colleague, eye contact helps build connection and trust.

2. Be Concise

Have a clear message and get to the point. Share the information your audience needs rather than everything you know. Concise communication demonstrates clarity of thought and respect for people’s time.

3. Reduce Filler Words

Overusing words such as “um,” “like,” or “you know” can weaken your message and make you sound uncertain. Instead of filling every pause, allow yourself a moment to think before continuing. Silence is often more powerful than filler.

4. Eliminate “Uptalk”

When every statement sounds like a question, you may unintentionally project uncertainty. Practice ending statements with a calm, steady tone to communicate confidence and credibility.

5. Skip the Self-Undermining Preamble

Avoid beginning with phrases such as:

“This may be a stupid idea…”
“I’m probably wrong, but…”
“I’m not sure if this makes sense…”

While humility and openness to feedback are important, unnecessary disclaimers can weaken your message before you even begin.

6. Learn the Communication Culture

Every organization has its own communication norms. Some audiences prefer concise bullet points and data. Others respond more strongly to stories, visuals, or discussion.

Observe how information is typically communicated before deciding how to adapt - or eventually try to improve - those norms.

7. Manage Your Nerves

Feeling nervous before speaking is normal, especially early in your career. Slow, deep breathing can help steady your voice and reduce physical tension. Calm body language often creates the appearance of confidence even before you fully feel it internally.

8. Speak Up in Meetings

Thoughtful participation helps people recognize your capabilities and perspective. Asking a good question or contributing a useful observation can help build your professional reputation over time.

This is especially important in hybrid and virtual environments where visibility can otherwise be limited.

9. Use a Clear, Strong Voice

Make sure you are speaking loudly and clearly enough to be easily understood. Enunciate your words and avoid trailing off at the ends of sentences, especially in virtual meetings where audio quality may not always be ideal.

10. Practice and Get Feedback

Communication skills are exactly that - skills. They can be learned, practiced, refined, and improved over time.

Even highly experienced executives, professional speakers, and performers continue to rehearse and seek expert feedback. Consistent deliberate practice and targeted coaching can accelerate your growth dramatically.

Final Thoughts

The greatest communicators are not necessarily the loudest or most naturally outgoing people. In many cases, they are simply the people who have learned to communicate with clarity, confidence, preparation, and intention.

As you begin your professional journey, remember that communication skills are career skills. The ability to present ideas clearly, contribute thoughtfully, and connect with others professionally will continue to serve you throughout your career.

How to Network Without Feeling Like You're Bragging

2026-06-15T10:00:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

When I was facilitating a networking for a professional association, someone asked me, “how can I network effectively without feeling like I’m showcasing myself?”

If you’re worried about networking feeling like self-promotion, you’re not alone. But I want to reframe the mindset: showcasing your skills isn’t bragging - it’s sharing your value.

Own Your Achievements with Confidence

Many of us are taught that self-promotion is boastful or arrogant, but think about it this way: Would Simone Biles say, “I’m kind of an okay gymnast,” or Roger Federer say, “I’m kind of good at tennis, but I don’t really want to brag”?

Sharing your accomplishments isn’t about proving you’re better than others - it’s about recognizing your own expertise and contributions and then focusing on how you can use them to provide value and help to others.

Find the Right Balance

You don’t have to list every achievement or constantly talk about yourself. Instead, use neutral, fact-based statements that highlight your experience without sounding boastful:

“I specialize in [area of expertise].”
“Over my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various organizations such as...”
“I’ve written several papers on this topic and contributed to multiple publications.”

These statements communicate your credibility without feeling like self-promotion.

Let Others Speak for You

A great way to showcase your strengths without feeling uncomfortable is to surround yourself with people who advocate for you. Bring a networking buddy to the event, someone who can naturally highlight your skills when you’re meeting people. Sometimes, a simple, “Oh, you should talk to [your name] about this - she’s an expert in the field!” from a friend can make all the difference.

Shift the Focus to Connection

Instead of thinking of networking as showcasing yourself, think of it as sharing value and building relationships. Approach conversations with curiosity, ask thoughtful questions and look for ways to offer help. When you focus on mutual exchange rather than self-promotion, networking feels more natural and rewarding.

Bottom line: You don’t need to “sell” yourself to network effectively, nor should you downplay what you’re good at.

Simply own your expertise, share your value in a genuine way and surround yourself with people who lift you up. Confidence is not arrogance - it’s recognizing and embracing your strengths.

Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head

2026-06-11T00:03:47.342-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

If your stomach churns just at the thought of speaking in front of a group of people, you're not alone. In fact, Americans rate public speaking as their number one fear - even ahead of death (hence the old joke that you would rather be in the coffin than giving the eulogy)!

Think about what's going through your head right at that moment when you're getting ready to open your mouth, whether it's at a staff meeting at work or in front of the local parents' group.

Take a moment, close your eyes and really listen for that voice - what is it saying?

When I ask clients to share what that voice in their head is telling them right before they speak, they invariably come out with a whiny, annoying voice spewing negatives like "you're going to make a fool of yourself" or "who do you think you are?"

That voice goes by many names. Creativity expert Julia Cameron calls it "The Censor." I call it the "Joy-Sucker" because it sucks the joy out of your work and your life.

The Joy-Sucker undermines your confidence and makes you less able to convey your knowledge and experience to your audience. In its worst manifestations, it may even cause you to forget your own name! The Joy-Sucker may come from old beliefs about ourselves or perhaps a comment made by an unhelpful friend, teacher or ex.

Instead of allowing the Joy-Sucker to sap your confidence, I recommend replacing it with a positive affirmation or mantra, a term borrowed from meditation and yoga that means a word or phrase that you repeat to yourself to focus your mind and energy.

Your mantra should be personally meaningful to you and should be a phrase that you can believe. You can use a song title (Aretha Franklin's "RESPECT" comes to mind), a line from a poem or anything that makes you feel powerful and confident. "You go, girl" is my favorite (accompanied by a mental fist in the air).

Once you have created a mantra, try it out in real-life situations. When you're getting ready to speak, listen for the Joy-Sucker and replace it with your mantra. Remember that the Joy-Sucker has had years of practice, so it's okay to try several mantras before you find one that is powerful enough to drown it out.

You'll know the mantra is working when you feel your anxiety decreasing and your confidence increasing (a little bit at a time). As you build your confidence, you'll be able to tap into your knowledge and experience related to the topic at hand - and you'll be on your way to becoming a more polished public speaker!

Handling Q&A With Confidence: Turning Questions into Connection

2026-06-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

One of the most important parts of any presentation isn’t when you’re speaking – it’s when someone raises their hand to ask a question.

How you handle questions says as much about your confidence, competence and credibility as your slides or delivery ever could.

The good news? Just like any other communication skill, Q&A is something you can prepare for and master.

You Can Predict Most Questions

Before your presentation, spend time thinking about your audience and your content. You can predict about 80–90% of the questions you’ll be asked.

It’s a lot like preparing for a job interview. If you’ve seen the job description, you can anticipate the standard questions:

“Why are you interested in this role?”
“Why are you a good fit?”
“What are your strengths?”
“Why did you leave your last job?”

The same logic applies to your presentation. If you know your material and understand your audience’s perspective, most questions won’t surprise you.

Of course, there will always be a few surprises, someone will ask a creative, unusual or unexpected question. But that last 10% shouldn’t derail you.

Practice Your Answers Out Loud

Once you’ve predicted your likely questions, practice your answers out loud, not just in your head.

Speaking them helps you find the right tone and phrasing so your answers sound natural and confident. This isn’t about memorizing; it’s about becoming comfortable and confident.

Then practice responses to three more types of questions:

1. The Question You Don’t Want to Be Asked

Every presenter has that one question they secretly dread. Maybe it’s a data question you’re unsure about. Maybe it’s a topic you’d rather avoid.

Don’t just hope it won’t come up; instead, prepare for it.

Write down the question, craft a calm, thoughtful answer and practice saying it until it feels natural. When you’ve already faced that question in your mind, it loses its power to throw you off.

2. The Question You Don’t Know the Answer To

This one makes everyone nervous. But not knowing an answer doesn’t mean you lose credibility; it’s how you respond that matters.

Here are a few confident ways to say “I don’t know”

“That’s a great question. I don’t have that information right now; let me check and get back to you.”
“That’s an interesting perspective. It wasn’t part of our initial analysis and I can see how it could add value.”
“Good question. I don’t think we’ve been asked that before. Let me connect with the team and follow up.”

Phrases like these show openness, professionalism and curiosity without sounding unprepared.

3. The Question You Can’t Answer (Yet)

Sometimes you do know the answer, but you can’t share it yet. Maybe it’s about a new partnership, an initiative still under wraps or something not yet public.

In those moments, honesty and tone matter most. Try something like:

“That information isn’t available publicly yet, but as soon as it is, we’ll be happy to share it.”

This response is transparent, confident and professional so you’re don’t sound evasive.

Turn Q&A Into Engagement

When handled well, Q&A can be one of the most engaging parts of your presentation. It’s where dialogue replaces monologue and your audience feels seen and heard.

Preparation is the key. When you anticipate, practice, and plan (even for the tough questions) you project calm, confidence and credibility.

So before your next presentation, take time to think through your likely questions and practice your answers.

Because preparation for Q&A isn’t just about having the right answers. It’s about learning to think clearly in the moment, respond with composure, and stay connected even when the question is unexpected.

That kind of preparation doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from taking the time to anticipate, structure your thinking, and practice deliberately before the moment arrives.

Clarity Over Jargon: How to Communicate Complex Ideas Simply

2026-05-29T09:30:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

During a recent program for entrepreneurs, someone said, “I was pitching myself to a potential client and I mentioned the therapeutic approach I use. They stopped me and said, ‘I don’t understand.’ I felt awful. I don’t even know how to get better at explaining it.”

This isn’t just an entrepreneur’s problem. Anyone who has to explain their work, ideas or expertise to people outside their field faces this challenge. Whether you’re a therapist, a scientist, a consultant, a teacher or an executive in a large organization, clarity matters.

When we work in specialized or technical fields, it’s easy to forget how much knowledge we carry.

Medical, therapeutic, scientific or technical language may feel natural to us, but for many people it creates distance rather than clarity. The solution is not to talk more. It’s to talk simpler.

Translate, Don’t Lecture

People don’t understand jargon and they may not connect with technical explanations. This is especially true when you’re speaking to an audience that doesn’t share your background.

I work with a client in medical research whose company is seeking FDA approval for a treatment related to neurological injuries. The science is complex and precise, which matters when she’s speaking to scientists. But when she’s speaking to potential investors who are not scientists, that level of detail gets in the way.

The key is translation. Show that you understand the complexity, then explain it in plain English. Use analogies, metaphors or everyday experiences to help people grasp the idea quickly.

Think in terms of familiar images, for example, “mixing peanut butter and jelly” or “a car hydroplaning on water.” Anything that turns an abstract process into something tangible. You’re not dumbing it down. You’re making it accessible.

Test and Adjust

Try out your explanations. Pay attention to where people lean in and where they look confused. Refine your language based on their reactions. And remember, not everyone will understand immediately.

The Bottom Line

Clarity is not simplification for its own sake. It is discipline.

The more complex your work, the more intentional you must be about how you translate it. Clear language signals clear thinking. It builds credibility, reduces resistance and allows others to engage with your ideas rather than struggle to decode them.

When you translate expertise into language others can grasp quickly, you strengthen trust and influence. And in high-stakes conversations, that clarity often determines whether your message moves forward or stalls.

A Super Bowl Lesson in Preparation: From Panic to Presence

2026-05-24T09:30:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

In the days after the Super Bowl, a story in The New York Times highlighted Jason Myers, the Seattle Seahawks kicker whose performance helped secure the win.

What stood out wasn’t just the result. It was how he prepared.

A fellow alum of Marist University, Myers became the first Red Fox to play in a Super Bowl. No matter where your loyalties were during football season, it was a moment of pride across the Marist community - watching one of our own deliver a performance that was both outstanding and history-making.

The article explained how he relied on a consistent pre-game routine to control his mindset, using the same process he follows every week, even on the Super Bowl stage.

He wasn’t scrambling to find focus. He had already built it.

The Part Most People Overlook

When we think about high performance, we tend to focus on the moment itself - the presentation, the meeting, the pitch.

But elite performers understand something deeper: What happens before the moment shapes what happens during it.

They don’t leave their mindset to chance. They prepare it.

From Noise to Focus

A pre-game ritual creates a deliberate transition, from distraction to clarity, from tension to control.

Two elements make an immediate difference:

Breathing: Slow, steady breathing signals safety to your body. Even a minute or two can steady your voice and sharpen your focus.
Visualization: Most people already visualize but in the wrong direction. They imagine what could go wrong. Instead, rehearse success. See yourself delivering clearly, connecting, finishing strong.

Managing the Voice

There’s another layer to this. Right before we speak, most of us aren’t just dealing with nerves - we're often dealing with a negative voice in our heads. A running commentary that questions, second-guesses, and undermines: What if you forget what to say? Who do you think you are?

I call it the “Joy-Sucker” because it sucks the joy out of your work and life.

What stood out in the story about Jason Myers is that he doesn’t let that noise take over. His focus is deliberately simple and assertive, centered on the few thoughts that actually matter in the moment.

That’s not accidental. It’s trained.

A pre-game ritual helps you make the same shift, replacing distraction with something intentional, whether that’s a mantra, a phrase, or a simple point of focus.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

There’s one more element behind this kind of performance. In the article, Myers also works with a performance consultant, someone who helps him refine his process and execute under pressure.

That’s standard in sports. Every elite athlete has a coach.

In business, we often see it differently. But coaching isn’t remedial, it’s how people move from good to excellent. It removes guesswork, sharpens focus, and accelerates performance.

The highest performers don’t go it alone.

The Real Outcome

A pre-game ritual isn’t just about feeling calmer. It’s about showing up at your best when it matters most.

Because when preparation meets presence:

Clarity improves.
Confidence steadies.
Connection deepens.

And that’s what people remember. Not just what you said - but how you showed up.

What Driver’s Ed Taught Me About Practicing a Presentation

2026-05-18T21:54:42.905-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to presenting is not spending enough time preparing and practicing. That’s true for formal presentations and it’s just as true for the informal moments when you’re speaking up in meetings, interviews or conversations that matter.

When you have to present, practicing out loud matters. The goal isn’t memorization for its own sake. The goal is internalization. One of the clearest ways I’ve found to explain this comes from my experience in driver’s education.

I took “driver’s ed” in my senior year of high school. I grew up near a state parkway and that’s where our class practiced driving. The parkway was not exactly beginner-friendly. It was a narrow road with two lanes in each direction and only a small shoulder at the edge of the road. And people usually drove faster than the speed limit.

After sitting through some classroom sessions and some time in a driving simulator, it was time to get into a real car and drive. There were four of us students in the car and the instructor sat in the front passenger seat. He didn’t have a second steering wheel. He only had a brake for emergencies. That was it.

Before that day, my total driving experience consisted of my dad taking me to an empty Kmart parking lot a couple of times. I had never driven over 20 miles an hour. And now I’m sitting behind the wheel and the instructor says, “Pull out of the school parking lot, take a left, take a right and merge onto the parkway.”

The speed limit was 55.

I remember thinking, We’re going to die. I’m going to kill all of us. And even if we survive, I have no idea how we’re getting back to the school because I don’t know how to get off this road.

But somehow, we survived. All of us. I managed to drive the car on the parkway and even back to the school. I eventually passed my driver’s test and got my license.

The driving test proctor told me, “I probably shouldn’t pass you, but I will. You just need more practice. A lot more practice.”

I did get that practice and I’ve been a good driver for many years now. I don’t think about each individual step anymore because driving has become automatic. I automatically put on my seat belt. I automatically check the mirrors. I automatically look out the window for oncoming traffic. So it has become internalized. And if something unexpected happens, I can fully focus my attention on that in the moment.

That’s exactly how I want communication to feel for you.

When you practice a presentation enough, you stop thinking about every individual word. Your opening, your transitions, your timing, your close, even your answers to likely questions become part of you. It flows. You’re not scrambling in your head asking, What do I say next?

That level of preparation doesn’t eliminate nerves. Nerves may be inevitable. But it gives you the bandwidth to manage them. It lets you focus on your body language, your presence and your connection with the audience instead of just trying to survive.

And like with driving, riding a bicycle or any skill you've learned that has now become part of your muscle memory, when presenting becomes more automatic, you can stay fully present and handle unexpected moments with confidence.

Practice isn’t about perfection. It’s about internalization. So when it’s time to merge onto the metaphorical highway, you can drive with confidence instead of white-knuckling the wheel.

From Panic to Presence: The Power of a Pre-Game Ritual

2026-04-27T09:30:00.012-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

Whether you’re stepping onto a stage, joining a high-stakes meeting or presenting new ideas to key decision-makers, those few minutes before you start can make all the difference.

The Athlete’s Lesson

Think of it like sports. Every elite athlete has a pre-game ritual, a routine that gets their body and mind into peak condition.

They listen to specific music. They follow precise warm-up routines. They eat the same breakfast, lace their shoes the same way, even visualize the first play before they take the field.

Why? Because they know that what happens before the game affects what happens during the game.

They don’t leave their mindset to chance. We shouldn’t either.

Your presentation, pitch or meeting is your performance moment and like any performance, it deserves a ritual that prepares both your mind and body to perform at their best.

What Counts as “High Stakes”?

Maybe you’re presenting to senior leadership for the first time or presenting new content, or you’re in a bigger venue than usual. Maybe there’s someone in the audience whose opinion really matters.

Whenever the outcome carries weight (visibility, opportunity, or influence) it’s a high-stakes situation.

And that means preparation must go beyond your slides and notes.

You need to prepare yourself.

The Opposite of a Ritual

Too often, we do the opposite: racing from one meeting to the next, answering emails, scrolling our phones wondering if we have time for coffee.

That frantic pre-meeting scramble floods the body with stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol that elevate anxiety, tighten muscles and narrow focus in all the wrong ways. By the time the meeting starts, our energy is high but our composure is gone.

Breathing and Visualization

A pre-game ritual helps us reset. It replaces the stress hormones with calm focus.

The first step is breathing, slow, steady, deliberate breaths that tell your body it’s safe to calm down. It’s remarkable how a minute or two of intentional breathing can reduce stress and steady your voice.

The second step is visualization. Most of us are already good at this, but in the wrong direction. The anxious inner critic imagines everything that could go wrong: forgetting your words, being judged, losing your place.

Instead, flip the mental film. Picture yourself delivering a strong presentation. See yourself connecting with the audience, articulating your ideas clearly and finishing with people nodding in agreement.

Visualization isn’t wishful thinking, it’s mental rehearsal. It primes your brain to follow the success script you’ve just imagined.

Find What Works for You

Every person’s pre-game ritual will look a little different. Some people listen to music that grounds or energizes them. Others take a brief walk, stretch or center themselves in silence.

I avoid looking at my phone right before a major presentation. I know that one unexpected message or missed call can pull my attention away from the moment. And I focus on a positive mantra that quiets any negative thoughts in my head.

Whatever your ritual is, make it a consistent practice, not something you do only when you have time.

Because that’s where the shift happens: from panic to presence.

And presence is where confidence, clarity and true connection begin.

What It Takes to Emcee a Live Event (And Lead a Room in Real Time) - WBDC's Women-Owned Business Day

2026-04-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

Last week, I was back at the State Capitol in Hartford to emcee Women Owned Business Day — my 11th year with the event.

It’s a day that brings together women entrepreneurs, public leaders from both sides of the aisle, and a highly engaged audience around a shared focus: expanding opportunity and supporting business growth.

From the outside, emceeing can look straightforward — introductions, transitions, keeping the program moving.

In reality, the role is far more dynamic.

Structuring in Real Time

Live programs rarely unfold exactly as planned — and in this setting, flexibility isn’t optional.

Because the legislature was in session, several legislative leaders needed to step away from caucus meetings to participate. In real time, that meant adjusting the order of speakers so they could join the program and return to their responsibilities.

Maintaining structure under those conditions requires quick judgment — preserving the flow of the program while accommodating the realities of the room.

Preparing Voices to Land

Preparation doesn’t begin on stage.

In addition to working with the entrepreneurs in the Accelerate Grant Pitch Competition, I also worked with several speakers in advance to help them refine their message — aligning it with the time constraints and purpose of the event, and ensuring they could deliver it with clarity and confidence.

When that preparation is done well, each contribution strengthens the overall program rather than competing for attention.

With the Accelerate Grant Pitch Competition winners,
alongside the grant sponsor and WBDC leadership.

Managing the Unexpected

Even with preparation, unexpected moments are part of every live program.

Toward the end of the event, we were informed that U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal would be joining — but needed a few additional minutes to arrive.

Holding the room in that moment required a shift. I used the time to engage the audience directly, asking what had resonated most and what they were taking away from the program.

What could have been a pause instead became a way to maintain engagement in the room.

What Makes a Program Work

This year also included the Accelerate Grant Pitch Competition, where six entrepreneurs presented for the opportunity to receive one of three $25,000 grants.

Having worked with each of them ahead of the event, I had a unique perspective on the preparation behind those moments — and the level of clarity and confidence required to deliver under pressure.

Events like this are a reminder that strong programs don’t happen by accident.

They are shaped — through preparation, structure, and the ability to adapt in real time.

And when that comes together, the result is a room that is not just attentive, but meaningfully engaged in something that matters.

Behind the scenes, a great deal of coordination goes into making a program like this work. Thanks to the WBDC team and Long Point Event Planning for the thought and execution that made the day possible.

Congratulations to the entrepreneurs who were awarded grants, and appreciation to the Accelerate Grant Founding Funder Libertas for supporting their work.
Grant recipients: Kayla Walker, Hound and Home LLC, Newington; Luigina Facchini, Norwich Fitness Center, Norwich; Kaitlyn Kimball, Sunset Farm, Naugatuck

photos courtesy of Aviva Maller Photography

The What, Who, When, and Why of Leadership Presence

2026-04-09T13:16:00.000-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

We often hear phrases like “leadership presence” or “executive presence,” but what do they really mean? Let’s start with the what.

What Is Leadership Presence?

Leadership presence is what people perceive about you and your ability to lead and influence others.

The key word here is perceive. Perception shapes reality; how people see you determines how much they trust, follow and believe in your leadership. What do people perceive about how you lead, how you influence and how you get things done? That perception is the essence of leadership presence.

What Are Its Components?

Think of leadership presence as a puzzle made up of several interlocking pieces:

Vision: the clarity of your direction and purpose
Integrity: your foundation of trust
Execution: how you turn ideas into results
Appearance: how you physically show up (it shouldn’t matter, but it still plays a role)
Strategy: how you think and plan

And then there’s the puzzle piece that connects them all: communication.

Communication is the connection between your abilities and your success as a leader. Communication translates competence into credibility, vision into inspiration and strategy into action. It is the mechanism through which leadership presence becomes visible and tangible to others.

At its core, leadership communication rests on three pillars: confidence, competence, and composure.

Who Is It For?

Leadership presence isn’t reserved for CEOs or executives. It’s for everyone, no matter your job title, age or background.

You can be a leader even if you’re a new college graduate. You can demonstrate leadership presence even if you don’t manage a team. You can show leadership presence in your first year in a new industry.

Everyone has the opportunity to lead and to be perceived as a leader.

When Do You Need Leadership Presence?

The short answer: all the time.

Leadership presence isn’t something you turn on for big presentations and switch off in everyday interactions. It matters in every context - meetings, one-on-ones, networking events, live or virtual sessions even during Q&A. Every interaction is a moment when your leadership presence either strengthens or weakens.

Why Does It Matter?

Because doing good work is no longer enough.

Once upon a time, results alone might have spoken for themselves. Today, visibility, communication, and perception play a crucial role in how others recognize your contributions. You want to be seen as a leader - someone people listen to, respect, and follow.

The way to stand out isn’t by just working harder. It’s by communicating more intentionally. Communication is your ace card. It’s your leverage in moments that matter.

You don’t have to be born with great communication skills or natural presence. These are skills you can learn, practice, and refine.

And when you take the time to sharpen them, especially around real conversations, decisions, and moments of visibility, you elevate your leadership presence and become the kind of leader who not only does the work, but brings others with you.

Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head (18th anniversary of my newsletter)

2026-03-25T13:52:00.004-04:00

Each year, I reprint the very first article I published in my newsletter, originally written in January 2008.

I remember writing this article, Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head, and sending it to a very small list of family and friends.

Eighteen years and hundreds of articles later, this newsletter now reaches thousands of subscribers across more than 45 countries - and I'm entering my 20th year in business!

Whether you’ve been with me since the very beginning or you’ve just recently joined, I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to support you in strengthening your communication and presentation skills.

When I wrote this article in 2008, the world of work looked very different. Social media was just emerging and Zoom didn’t exist. But what hasn’t changed is my belief that growth comes from practice, reflection and learning how to communicate with intention - and that starts with building your confidence (especially if you're struggling with negative self-talk about your skills).

Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head

Think about what's going through your head right at that moment when you're getting ready to open your mouth, whether it's at a staff meeting at work or in front of the local parents' group.

Take a moment, close your eyes and really listen for that voice - what is it saying?

That voice goes by many names. Creativity expert Julia Cameron calls it "The Censor." I call it the "Joy-Sucker" because it sucks the joy out of your work and your life.

Gilda to Emcee WBDC's Women-Owned Business Day April 8 in Hartford

2026-03-21T13:58:00.001-04:00

WBDC’s Women-Owned Business Day is a unique opportunity for Connecticut’s women entrepreneurs and our state legislators to connect and share thoughts and ideas about the issues that impact Connecticut’s small women-owned businesses each and every day.

Join WBDC, our legislative hosts, and Connecticut-based entrepreneurs to connect in our state’s capital and celebrate the real impact women-owned businesses have had on Connecticut’s economy, our communities, and our families.

I'm honored to serve as Emcee once again for this bipartisan event.

Women-Owned Business Day 2026

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2026

9:00am - 1:00pm
Legislative Office Building, Hartford

Our honorary co-chairs:

THE HONORABLE PATRICIA BILLIE MILLER
State Senator, Deputy President Pro Tempore

THE HONORABLE HEATHER SOMERS

State Senator, Senior Deputy Republican Leader

To register or for more info, please visit https://ctwbdc.org/events/wobd2026/

Adapting Your Communication Style for Better Collaboration

2026-03-16T13:07:00.003-04:00

by Gilda Bonanno LLC

In today’s organizations, collaboration is essential. But often, we forget what the word truly means. It’s from the Latin collaborare, meaning “to labor together.” And collaboration requires effort. It’s not just about working side by side but about actively adapting so that others’ voices are heard and valued.

When teams span departments, regions or disciplines, differences in communication styles can become obstacles if we ignore them. Effective collaboration depends on recognizing these differences and adjusting our approach. The goal is not to change who we are but to meet others where they are, so that all perspectives can be included.

One of the most practical tools is what I call the Communications Golden Rule™: communicate unto others as they want to be communicated to. This runs counter to the usual advice of treating others the way you prefer. Instead, it requires stepping into their shoes and asking, “How does my message look from their point of view?”

That might mean starting with data when speaking to a numbers-driven colleague, or using a story when working with someone who values narrative. It might mean giving a quick decision-maker concise options, while offering a more reflective colleague the time and space to process. Neither approach is right or wrong; they’re simply different. And your effectiveness hinges on knowing which style resonates with the person in front of you.

These differences show up in many ways. For example:

Direct vs. Indirect: “Let’s do this” versus “How might we approach this together?”
Numbers vs. Narrative: Charts and metrics versus stories and analogies
Quick vs. Deliberate: Fast decisions versus time to ponder and weigh options
Results vs. Quality: “Get it done fast” versus “Get it done right”
Logic vs. Emotion: Building an argument with facts versus appealing to values or feelings
Big Picture vs. Detail: Focusing on vision versus drilling into specifics
Individual vs. Team: Emphasizing independence versus collaboration
Consistency vs. Change: Stability and reliability versus innovation and adaptation
Reserved vs. Expressive: Quiet and measured versus open and enthusiastic
Control vs. Freedom: Preference for structure versus autonomy

Recognizing and adapting to these preferences transforms potential conflict into productive collaboration.

This flexibility pays dividends. By clearing the runway of miscommunication and misunderstanding before takeoff, you prevent obstacles from blocking progress.

More importantly, you unlock the full potential of your team. When different voices are heard, whether skeptical or enthusiastic, data-driven or intuitive, you build solutions that are more resilient, creative and effective.

Adjusting your communication style is not about being less authentic. It’s about being more effective. In a fast-paced business environment, leaders and professionals who can flex their style will be the ones who get the best from their teams and deliver stronger results.

Gilda Bonanno's blog

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Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head

Handling Q&A With Confidence: Turning Questions into Connection

Clarity Over Jargon: How to Communicate Complex Ideas Simply

A Super Bowl Lesson in Preparation: From Panic to Presence

What Driver’s Ed Taught Me About Practicing a Presentation

From Panic to Presence: The Power of a Pre-Game Ritual

What It Takes to Emcee a Live Event (And Lead a Room in Real Time) - WBDC's Women-Owned Business Day

Structuring in Real Time

Preparing Voices to Land

With the Accelerate Grant Pitch Competition winners,alongside the grant sponsor and WBDC leadership.

Managing the Unexpected

What Makes a Program Work

The What, Who, When, and Why of Leadership Presence

Public Speaking Fear? Drown Out That Negative Voice in Your Head (18th anniversary of my newsletter)

Gilda to Emcee WBDC's Women-Owned Business Day April 8 in Hartford

Women-Owned Business Day 2026

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2026

9:00am - 1:00pmLegislative Office Building, Hartford

Adapting Your Communication Style for Better Collaboration

With the Accelerate Grant Pitch Competition winners,
alongside the grant sponsor and WBDC leadership.

9:00am - 1:00pm
Legislative Office Building, Hartford