Kathy's Connection

2009-07-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

NEOGIATING YOUR SALARY

You can quote me on this: “The person who mentions salary first loses.”
I was working with an executive woman who was transitioning into a new career. Her list of computer skills read like the “Who’s Who’s” of the computer software world. The most amazing thing was that she was self-taught.

She called me excitedly to say that she has an interview. Her interview skills needed brushing up, so she hired me for an hour to help her out. We met at our local coffee shop and we role-played.

She learned to answer the question “What is your biggest weakness?” by avoiding giving a personality trait such as “I tend to be a bit too detailed oriented.” Instead, she mentioned a skill needed for the position that she was not proficient. Then she talked about what she was doing to obtain that skill.

When it came to salary, I said, “Do not mention a salary figure, the first person that mentions salary loses”. Then we proceeded to work on answers such as:

“What do you think would be an appropriate salary for a person with my skills?”

When asked what her old salary was, the reply might be: “We’re really comparing apples and oranges here, what were you intending to offer the person in this position?”

My last piece of advice, “Do not take the job on the spot if it is offered to you – Ask for 24 hours to think about it?”

I thought she had gotten it.

That afternoon an excited woman called me, “Kathy, I got the job.” I was surprised and said, “You have already accepted it?” She said, “Yes, I did—I know you told me not to but I was so excited I did on the spot”.

This woman began her job and found out that her salary was $20,000 below that of the men in her department doing the same job. In addition, she had forgotten to negotiate parking. She was stuck with a $75 a month parking bill in a nearby building.

RECOMMENDATION: (1) Do not mention a salary figure first. (2)Ask for 24 hours to consider the job so you can think through the benefits you might want to change or negotiate.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

My father taught me always to be a few minutes early. It is a trait that serves me well. If heading to a meeting in an unfamiliar place, be sure you know which parking lot to use and which door you should use to enter the building.

2009-06-30T15:41:00.000-07:00

MOUNT HOOD STANDING MAJESTY AGAINST BLUE SKY

During the week, I was pouring it on for my career. I was getting tired, yet, I knew that on Sunday I would be taking a friend of mine to Mt. Hood for the very first time. Love that mountain. I make the trek there at least once each summer. It is about a two-hour drive from my home.

She arrived at my house and we set off with a clouded sky. Crossed over into Oregon and we took Highway 26 East. This route is filled with interesting little shops. As you get nearer the mountain, ski rental shops become commonplace. Chalets and tiny restaurants are tucked in under the trees that are growing in height and density. You truly feel like you are getting away.

First stop was The Resort of the Mountain in Welches, Oregon. http://www.theresort.com This turned out to be special stop for I was surprised to see the hotel had received an upgrade. Gone was the Scottish decor. Now it was contemporary in every way. We mistook the entrance of the restaurant for a spa – candles burning, flowers…nice.

We had brunch here and it was plenty—one of those places that you decide you are going to throw any diet or watching what you eat to the wind. We’re glad we did.

I showed her Government Camp – the last real sense of civilization before you head up the road to the actual mountain. No room for the terrific Huckleberry shake from the Huckleberry Inn http://www.huckleberry-inn.comNext time.

As we approached the mountain we looked up and there was not a cloud in the sky—perfect day to show off Timberline Lodge http://www.timberlinelodge.com It was dedicated by President Roosevelt in 1937. The building has painstakingly been restored. You feel like you are walking back into time for it contains the original art. You actually sit on the chairs that were crafted so many years ago specifically for this building.

Snow is still right up to the big window that provides the perfect place to view snowboarders practicing their craft. Yes, there is still lots of snow. Mt. Hood is known for summer camps –people were in their full ski gear and sunglasses…truly a sight to see.

I am on the left with my friend, Molly.

We explored the Lodge and then headed down to one of my special places. Long ago, I went on a tour following the Oregon trail with experts on the subject. The picture below shows me at place where the wagon trains went through. Over the years, the ruts are starting to disappear. Note the huge tree that, apparently, they cut down for it spread too far into their pathway. If only those trees could speak.

We ended the day in Hood River-the wonderful town on the Columbia River. This city deserves its own blog – more on that another time.

Yes, came home refreshed. Now, my friend Molly, knows more about the mountain we can see from our community. I’m betting she’ll be going back and sharing it with her friends too.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Schedule a time each day to either learn more about social media or answer or post questions online. If you are not using social media, you are missing out on a way to make yourself or product visible.

2009-06-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

SOCIAL MEDIA TAKES TIME

Got my coffee this morning and turned on my computer. Overnight approximately 35 people started following me on Twitter. We tend to forget while we sleep the rest of the world is wide-awake and in the middle of its’ workday. Sometime during their day, people discovered me, checked out some of my tweets, and decided they wanted to follow me.

I check them out and make a decision to follow them or ignore the request. I choose not to follow people who do not have a picture, a profile or tweets that are just used to sell their product. My view Twitter is a place where you share your insights and retweet followers who have great links to interesting blogs and newsletters.

Since I am supposed to be writing the first thing in the morning, I questioned myself about whether or not I am making good use of my important asset….time. Smiling for obviously Twitter has given me a subject to write about. Twitter has caught the attention of millions of people.

Is it worth my time? My answer is yes.

Just this week I did a radio interview because Twitter follower Radio Suzy http://dresserafterdark.com mentioned they would like me to discuss communication on their evening show. Turned out to be a great conversation about the use of simple words.

Twitter has provided me with book recommendations, blogs that have great information on communication and, believe it not, I am developing real relationships. Last week I picked up the phone and talked to a couple of acquaintances that I seemed to be connecting with through our tweets. The calls turned out to be delightful—glad I took the time.

Yes, I am hooked.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Messy office? You might want to sign up for my friend Brandie Kajino’s newsletter for some helpful hints. http://www.thehomeofficeorganizer.com

2009-06-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

CONFUSION ABOUT VANCOUVER WASHINGTON

Vancouver, Washington is located on the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Oregon. Seems simple enough, yet, over and over again citizens of our community have to explain that we are not in Canada.

Our Mayor’s flagstaff statement is, “We live in America’s Vancouver”. We were actually named by George Vancouver, an English Captain, who traveled by ship to this area. He named our city first, then went to Canada, and named it Vancouver.

Issues that keeping popping up:

When you tell a travel agent you want to go to Vancouver, you have to make sure that she routes you to the Portland/Vancouver International Airport.

A large music group was scheduled to perform in our terrific amphitheater. The plane stopped in Seattle and it was then the group realized they were heading to Vancouver, B.C. No tickets were available so they had to make a three-hour bus trip to our community.

When attending conferences in Seattle, we have to introduce ourselves by saying, “I am from Vancouver, Washington”. Otherwise the assumption is made we are from Canada.

When traveling, we have to make sure our suitcases are routed to Portland/Vancouver International Airport….not Vancouver, B.C.

When using search engines for Vancouver, Washington more than likely, it will include searches for Vancouver, B.C.

National news reporters say Vancouver—that normally means Vancouver, B.C.

Met a consultant through Twitter that lives in Vancouver, B.C – both of us have experienced getting calls for our services only to discover the person had us in the wrong country.

I received a call from a reporter asking my opinion on the subject of unemployment. I called her back and it took us bit to realize that she thought I was in Vancouver, B.C. – the end of the interview immediately.

Recently, I was on a plane and I said I was from Washington. The gentleman sitting next to me said “Washington, D.C.”?

Glad I know who I am – it seems my community continues to have an identity problem.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Keep track of your successes each day. You will be surprised at how much you actually have accomplished. In addition, you have a record of the date you performed the task.

2009-06-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

PALM SPRINGS FROM MY VIEW

Last night over dinner, we were discussing my recent visit to Palm Springs. I’ve been there three times in the last year and one-half. Two times taking care of my friend, Gary Galland, who has subsequently passed on from a brain tumor at the age of 53.

This trip was different; I was visiting his widow, Kim Galland. Since she was working when I arrived, I walked into the house that I had spent so many hours caring for Gary. Furniture had been rearranged and the quiet was practically more than I could bear.

I called the next-door neighbor who was part of my life while I was there on my other trips. She came over and soon the pain/hurt started to go away. It was apparent to me life in Palm Springs had moved on.

Kim came home and we talked, shared some tears, got that over with, and then planned for the party we had both agreed to the following afternoon. We had come up with guest list of the people that had come in and out during the times I was there – much to my great pleasure, every one of them accepted our invitation.

Sunday afternoon people started arriving. The smiles and the hugs were great fun. Conversations started out on the patio around the pool, around the breakfast bar in the living room. There was constant movement of people--it seemed as if we wanted to make sure we had time to talk to everyone there. Relaxed and easy can best describe the party. Perfect in every way.

Party was over and then Kim and I decided who we wanted to spend our time with during the next two short days I would be there. Each occasion was marked by easy conversation, genuine interest in each other and memorable moments. Like amazing fish tacos at ShanghaiReds,http://www.fishermans.com/shangaireds.php and relaxing setting for an afternoon at Café Koffi http://www.kofficoffee.com

Meet one of my new, friends--- A Bull Dog who is rated the fifth most outstanding Bull Dog in the nation. His ranking had not gone to head—he was one of the friendliest dogs I have ever met.

I drove out of town and headed to the site of the Leadership Trainer I was providing in Bakersfield, California. The day was beautiful and I smiled as I thought about the last four days.

During dinner last night, I told my friends how much I liked Palm Springs. All three of them were in disagreement with me—they found the city too pretentious and really couldn’t imagine living there .They were not even excited about visiting Palm Springs.

When I drove home last night, I thought to myself “I am blessed with some authentic friends in Palms Springs, who believe in living in the present.” They are risk takers and they do not take anything for grant it. “ Just my kind of people. Looking forward to going back as soon as I can arrange it.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Keep a folder handy to put coupons in so you can find them. Office supply stores often have excellent coupons for reducing costs of making copies.

2009-06-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

HANDWRITTEN NOTES VS SENDOUTCARDS

Because I am considered an expert on networking, I am often asked, “What do you think of SendOutCards?” No, let me rephrase that – People raise their hands and say, “I use SendOutCards and send them out all the time even birthday cards to my clients children”.

My only recourse is to smile and say good for you keeping in touch with your clients. The conclusion I have come to is that if you are not good at using handwritten notes appropriately, you might have some real challenges making a good impression with these cards.

My belief is one of the reasons people are so excited about this system is that they see as it a way to make some extra money. They are becoming associates and each person they get hooked on this system becomes part of their multi-market down line network. I have been offered so many free trials I would have enough to use the system for the next year free.

With that being said, here’s my take:

SendOutCards

I have to say I probably got a bit jaded on them because of the first one I received. It was printed upside down….clearly not the way to make a good first impression.

The next card I received had his contact card (formerly called business card) printed on the top half. No way, I could file that card or pass it on.

After years of appreciating the handwritten notes (saving every one of them), my mailbox is inundated with glossy cards and nice comments, and verses fit for a Hallmark card. Personally, I want those kinds of verses coming from my family and close friends.

The other day I wanted to email one of the people who sent me the card an article that I thought she would enjoy. I looked for her email….no email address.

Funny, the “handwritten address” is always the same…hmmmm.

For years, I have strongly suggesting people send handwritten notes…they will help build relationships. It is just sad to me people think these cards are accomplishing the same thing. I am convinced others will get tired of them and think, “Oh, here’s another one of those cards”. Then it will promptly be thrown away.

I was considering developing a class to teach people how to use these cards effectively. However, frankly, my belief is that is a short-lived fad. I am going to devote my time to other pursuits.

Right now I need close and send a handwritten note to a new friend that I had dinner with last night—she’s a real joy in my life for she stretches me in my career. She needs to hear that from me in the form of a handwritten note—not something constructed by my computer.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

You have heard it before, yet, since I just learned how well it works, I thought I would remind you. Before you close down your home office at night, put everything on it in its’ home. The next morning your desk is clear.

2009-06-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

UGLY DUCKLING STORY REVEALED

Some of you know I live in a condo very near the Columbia River. My view off my deck is the river and the lights of the Portland Vancouver International Airport. However, it is the view out my kitchen and dining room window that brings me the most joy.

Pictured on the right is a view of the pond that is ever changing out my window. Spring in the Northwest is truly a delight in every way. The plants and trees you see here change with the season.

The center picture is one of the Blue Heron that has taken up residence here. This is a picture of one of his favorite fishing spots. He sits and sits and sits. One day as I was watching, he did get his prey…too big for him to eat all at once so he carried it off. Not sure where he actually spends his evenings, but all I know he brings a smile to my face each time I see him.

The third picture on the right is the real “Ugly Duckling”. We have four resident black swans. They are not very friendly creatures, so watching them from afar has become a wonderful treat. Each spring there is at least two babies born, as was the case this spring. However, all of sudden there was only one.

Living here helped me understand the true story of the “Ugly Duckling”. Each spring there are many baby ducks – sometimes as many as ten of them to a family. Before I know it, they have feathers and disappear somewhere.

The picture I have here is the “ugly duckling” (a baby swan, of course) It is now at least six weeks old. His body keeps growing as you can see by the size of him next to his mother. Yet, he is still entirely covered with down. Thus, the as the story goes…..I’m sure he’s wondering when he is going to be all grown up. It took me 50 years before I truly understood the story of the “Ugly Duckling” and all I had to do was look out my window.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

http://www.hotwire.com continues to be an outstanding resource for me to rent cars. I have never been tripped up by them. (No, I don’t have stock in the company)

2009-06-01T10:19:00.001-07:00

EXECUTIVE COACH'S PLAN FOR THE DAY

Turned on the computer this morning and emails started flowing in at a rapid pace. I discovered that there had been a huge influx of people signing up to follow me on Twitter. http://www.twitter.com/KathyCondon Smiling because getting followers is a good thing. As I write about 2500 people are following my tweets (140 characters—all you are allowed) which include, my “witty” comments, learnings and my adventures (if it is something unusual…and with me that is often.)

It would be easy to get sidetrack, but I am sticking to my plan that I developed before I went to bed last night.

1. Exercise – so that is swimming --- today I was there at 6:00 a.m. Like that time of morning for I have the pool to myself and reward myself with a sitting in the hot tub.

2. Took a shower and put the coffee on.

3. Read two papers….Yes, I still do and cannot imagine how I could be an Executive Coach without understanding what is going on in the world – especially the business world.

4. Made breakfast….a true believer in breakfast is important and I cannot tell you how many ways I have figured out to make different omelets…I need the protein.

5. Monday, so “Weekly Wisdom” was sent out. Love doing it and always starts my week in the positive mode of thinking. You can have your friends/colleagues sign up for it on my website http://www.kathycondon.info It is the upper-right hand side of my website.

6. Time to get out of my jammies and return to Social Media…..Did some tweeting and answered some questions on http://www.linkedIn.com

7. Time to write on my blog – that’s right now (10:00 a.m. now)

STILL TO DO:

• Pay some bills online.
• Mail a couple of books out that people purchased.
Yes, I am pleased to say “It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: It’s all about Communication” is selling well and long ago turned in the black on self-publishing.
• Prepare some books to be sent out for marketing purposes.
• Go back to LinkedIn and answer some more questions in the Groups.
• Send some comments/resources to fellow Tweeps (People who use Twitter)
• Work on seminar for Leadership Training Series on Beliefs and Values.
• Make a couple of appointments for coffee with people one-on-one...
• Finish car/hotel reservations for mid-June trip to Palm Springs and Bakersfield, CA.
• Make some phone calls to people who least expect it – time to connect.

Finally, expect the unexpected…..never know when the great phone call or email comes suggesting I am the perfect person for them to speak/training for their association or company.

By the way, this is a very rare thing for me to be working in my home all day without any outside appointments.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIPS:

If you want some tips on how to do Layoffs, you might want to read the article in The Columbian on Sunday where I was quoted extensively. http://tinyurl.com/m9ky6z

2009-05-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

WORLD ALL TWITTER ABOUT TWITTER

It is virtually impossible to listen to a television program or read the paper without some reference being made about Twitter. http://www.twitter.com As a user of Twitter, I have gone through many stages with my reaction to this social media. Notice I said social media –no longer are we calling Twitter, Facebook http://www.facebook.com LinkedIn http://www.LinkedIn.com and various other forms of online communication social networking.

1. Stage One

• I had no idea how to jump in and say something. I watched people posting links on all kinds of subjects and couldn’t imagine where they got them.
• I worried that what I wasn’t “smart” enough to write something clever.
• I was mortified when I sent out a 140-stroke tweet (that is all the keystrokes you have available so you have to learn to remove the fluff) with a typo.

2. Stage Two

• I started going to the links that were in some of the tweets. Wow, interesting stuff.
• I was hooked on going to the links and found myself spending way too much time exploring the web. I ended up controlling my time by looking at in the morning while I have my morning coffee. Look again over the lunch hour and finally, in the evening right after dinner.

Word of caution here if you are in the West Coast. If you do not want to learn the outcome of a sports event, Dancing with the Stars, winner of Spelling Bee do not go on the in the evening. You’ll learn the winner from tweets you read.

3. Stage Three

• I realized that I had great links to share. I just started using the links from newsletters and blogs that I had been getting all along. I had signed up for the newsletter and blog updates because I had found them interesting.
• I realized that when I found a link that had been posted by someone it was great to RT (ReTweet – send it out again with the sender names attached)

4. Stage Four (Where I am now)

• Saw on the news that a reporter had gotten information on Portland, Oregon by asking on Twitter for favorite inexpensive restaurants in Portland before he came. He visited, used the Tweeps (word for people who use Twitter). A one-half page article ended up in the New York Times – “Frugal Portland”. Word is that those restaurants’ businesses are flourishing.
• I was heading to Long Beach, Washington. Mentioned it in a tweet and the next thing I know I am connecting with a woman there. While at the beach, we tweeted with each other and arranged to meet. A terrific conversation occurred and we are now in touch on a regular basis.
• Learned it “Doesn’t Hurt to Ask” ….Plan to use this approach when I visit new areas to find great places to eat or see…and, perhaps connect with a person.

I am long way from being in a position of being called an expert on social media, but in order to keep up with the world, it is necessary for me to understand these communication tools. I urge you to put your toe into the social media world…and just relax and see what you can learn.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Check the activities in your suburban newspapers. Great networking events can be found there. Bet you will start understanding networking can be fun if you go to them. Take your contact cards (formerly called business cards) with you.

2009-05-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

MEMORIAL DAY OF REFLECTION

As a holiday approaches, we make plans to spend three days with no “work” schedule. If we are traveling some place, we scurry around and get things in order in our home before we leave. Interesting how all of sudden we finish those little things that seem important to get done before we walk out the door.

In my case, those nagging little things were done before I left to make the 2.5 hour drive to one of my favorite retreats, Ocean Parks, Washington and the Surfside Inn. I have been going to this place for the last 18 years and do much of writing there.

The drive takes me along the Columbia River, over the mountains and then to the wonderful area known as Wilipa Bay – famous for its’ outstanding oysters. Yes, I have learned to like oysters. I steam them in the shells with fresh rosemary.

Yet, the place that truly clears my mind is when I walk to the beach. I can see the beach out my condo window. However, it takes the quiet walk to the ocean before my senses truly open so I can hear and see.

Yesterday, the sun shone brightly. Few people were on the 22-mile long beach because people had to head home to report to work this morning.

The waves caught my attention. They were all different sizes. Some gentle and slow moving, some of them swiftly came in and still others noisily crashed on the beach and moved things that had been deposited by previous waves.

All of a sudden, the saying “the wave of emotions”, took on a new meaning. I have heard it often, yet, now I was watching this concept being revealed before my eyes. Like ocean waves, some of the waves of emotions are gentle and have little effect on our lives. Other waves make us take notice and still others come crashing into our lives when we least expect it.

When the waves came in at the ocean, I could choose to run away from them or I could stand my ground and wait for the wave to arrive and then move back out of my life/environment. It was my decision to decide if I wanted to run from the experience—just like the decisions we need to make when emotions entered into our daily lives.

Memorial Day reminds us how important it is to recognize and appreciate the people that helped keep our country free. This weekend, I also was given the gift to remember the “wave of emotions”. Like the soldiers that helped protect our country, the waves of emotion come in all different sizes. It is up to me to decide how I will work with them. This week will I run away from emotions or will I stand strong and work my way through them?

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you have special projects that need to be done, you might want to check out http://www.elance.com People from all over the world can bid on your project. I have had real success using this site.

2009-05-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

SPEED NETWORKING

Last night an announcement came up on a LinkedIn group http://www.LinkedIn.com about the time and date of “Latest and creative approach of building your network- Speed Networking”. Good thing I had overnight to think about this before I wrote this blog—I’m calmer now.

Now we are speeding up our personal interaction. In my mind/world, I think that is really sad. With technology, gobbling up more and more time the need for inter-personal communication is growing. Then we come up with an event that makes sure we do not have time to really connect with a person.

It is my personal belief that if you go to a networking event (Look for a place will you learn or have fun), you should not plan to meet more than three people. Networking is about building relationships. It is my experience people are really bad about following up with three people they have met. Imagine trying to follow-up with 20 or more.

My recommendation:

1. Find an event will you will learn or have fun.
2. Plan to meet three people.
3. Start conversations with a question:

What great thing happened to you recently?

Great piece of jewelry does it have a story behind it?

Come up with one that fits your personality…key is listen to the answer so you can ask the next question.

Send a handwritten note to the people you met and include your contact card (formerly called business) In my mind, that is how you start building a relationship.

PS Be sure to put the person’s contact information into your home contact program – One never knows when you will need the information about people you have met and developed a relationship.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you haven’t joined the world of social networking, I would like to suggest that you seriously consider it. We do not know where this all going, yet I can already see using Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter together I am getting my name out there and new opportunities are surfacing.

2009-05-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

KINDNESS FOUND IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Before me was a four-day training trip that involved three cities, five airplane rides, and two rental cars. Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and South Shore Tahoe were on my schedule. I was anticipating that the trip would be a great adventure and that is what it was.

After flying to Burbank, I got my rental car and headed to Bakersfield. I have made that trip three times over the last three months and it was glorious to see how the mountains change on each trip: barren, then spring flowers, and now golden brown at the bottom and green at the top.

Once in Bakersfield, I made my copies for the training, got myself something to eat for dinner and settle into my great place Four Points Sheraton. http://www.fourpointsbakersfield.com After a good night’s sleep, I opened the door of my room and I heard “Have a Happy Day”. The maid yelled this greeting from the other end of a long narrow hallway. The greeting brought a huge smile to my face—what a great way to start my day.

After the training, I headed back to Burbank. Returned the rental car and went across the street to catch the Metrolink to Union Station downtown LosAngeles. Before long, I realized the last train had left. I went up to a bus driver and she said, “Here come with me to Burbank, I’ll get you to the right bus.” She told me which bus to catch and to make sure I went to the end and then catch Bus 33.

For the next ¾ of an hour I journeyed through downtown Burbank and headed to downtown LosAngeles. When we got to the end, the bus driver said “Mame, why are getting off here?” I explained to him and he said, “You really should have gotten off back 12 blocks earlier”.

He said, “It isn’t safe leaving you here.” Tell you what, it is the end of my shift and I’ll take you Union Station.” He drove me up the door and as I went to hand him a tip, he said, “No, I won’t take that – just do something nice for someone along the way.”

As I settled into my hotel that night, I smiled. It has been a good day and the kindness of southern California strangers played a big role in making this second day a very good adventure indeed.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you travel a good deal, make yourself a checklist of things you need to take with you. Invariably you will be interrupted as you are packing. Checking off the list assures you have put the necessary items into your suitcase or carry on.

2009-05-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS REVEAL REAL STORIES IN SALT LAKE CITY

My topic “Effective Teams” was all over in 1.15 hrs. It felt good. People came up to me to tell me how much they enjoyed my story about the ducks on the pond outside my window. It seems there were two baby ducks that didn’t like swimming in a straight line with eight other siblings. The mother panic and the story goes on—you’ll have to read my forthcoming EBook to hear the rest of the story.

After my speech, I changed shoes and headed outside. Thank goodness, I had thrown in an umbrella after checking the weather forecast before I left. People have told me that it never rains much in Salt Lake City for any period…normally cloudless blue skies.

My goal was to visit the Contemporary Arts Center, which much to my surprise was free to the public. The first stop was a gallery of paintings done by visually impaired people. They had four goggles that you could look through to experience the artists' sight as they painted. The paintings were impressive at first glance. When I realized what their sight was liked as they created them, I stood there and marveled at what it took them to complete these works of art.

Looked at my watch and it was time to return to the conference to hear my dear friend Gayle Beacock make a presentation. The message she was about to deliver was cloaked in secrecy for she wanted to surprise everyone.

Gayle revealed the true Gayle Beacock in front of the assembled group and let people know the history, the work and the traumas it took as a family to create Beacock Music http://www.beacockmusic.com

Her family started the store in 1979 and today it is a thriving music store with people from all over the world contacting and featuring them for their innovative ideas.

Half way through the presentation there was a slide of notes her mother, Sue Beacock, had taken in 1969 which said, “Do to the difficult economy…” Gayle illustrated the fact that their family had been through this stuff before and they are alive and even better today. Her point was “A single-minded attitude” didn’t let them give up."

At the end, the group gave her a standing ovation. Her risk to share warts and all worked—people could identify and they liked it! Once again, proving to me when people believe you are authentic, they hear and appreciate your words.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

When giving a ten-minute talk, stick to just one principle. That way you can develop it fully and people will walk away with an understanding of the point you wanted to make.

2009-05-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

SALT LAKE CITY AND RPMDA CONFERENCE

I feel fortunate that I was selected to return for the second year to the RPMDA (Retail Print Music Dealers Association) Conference. http://www.printmusic.org.

It has been about 30 years since I had been in Salt Lake City, so I looked forward to the visit with great anticipation. As the plane landed, I was reminded how the city sits within a valley. The mountains surrounding the city were snow-capped and the sun was shining brightly. A quick, eight-dollar shuttle ride took me to the site of the conference Salt Lake Marriott City Center http://tinyurl.com/7pu288

Checked into a lovely room overlooking the city and the mountains. It would be my home for the next two days. Grabbed a bite to eat in the lounge, greeted people who organized the event and before I knew it was time to get dressed for what would be an extraordinary evening.

Attendees gathered in the main lobby and then we walked about three blocks (Salt Lake City’s blocks are about twice as long as normal blocks) and found ourselves in the Joseph Smith (Founder of the Mormon Church) Memorial Building. If I were to say, it was ornate – that would be putting it mildly. Everywhere you looked, there were examples of the amazing works of artisans who obviously painstaking created this building – rumors are that it was once a hotel.

A lovely dinner was served there and then we had time to roam the Temple grounds. Tulips were in full bloom – flowers were as far as the eye could travel. Then it was time for us to enter the hall to watch a rehearsal of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Three hundred and sixty voices, plus an orchestra of approximately 40 musicians was being coaxed to perfection by the conductor. We learned that a choir member has to make a commitment of 20 years or until they reach the age of 60.

A break was taken by the choir and then entire group came out in full dress regalia. The conductor walks to the microphone welcomed our group (which was sitting front and center) and says for the next ¾ of an hour we want you to know this is for you.

What unfolded was one of the most unbelievable events I have ever attended. For many in our group it was especially poignant because they were actually using the print music that was sold to the choir from their stores. A song “Lilies in the Field” had to be one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard.

This evening has to be one of the most extraordinary evenings I have ever been a part of in my life. I am honored and humbled by the fact that I was able to witness this evening with the participants of the conference.

My next blog will continue information about my journey in Salt Lake City.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Assume that the next person you run into is a client. Last night coming home on an airport shuttle, I met a woman who asked me what I do. She's attending my next event where I will be speaking in my community.

2009-04-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

ALASKA AIRLINES PROVIDES GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE

Alaska Airlines http://www.alaskaair.com has been my airline of choice for about seven years. Since I fly out the Portland/Vancouver International Airport, their frequent flights provide me with many choices.

This morning I picked up my local paper; and read that Alaska was now going to charge for the first checked baggage. I immediately could feel a “grrrrrr” in my body since that was one of the things I appreciated about Alaska’s service.

I had taken the day off yesterday and when I turned on my computer….210 emails flowed into my Inbox. One-third of the way through the emails was one from Alaska. They were informing me of the changes.

“As an MVP, however, you will be exempt from this first checked bag service charge. What's more, after this change goes into effect, we will also be waiving the second bag service charge for MVPs. Thus, for tickets purchased after May 1, 2009, for travel after July 7, 2009, you will be able to check two bags without a service charge. This exemption extends to everyone traveling in the same reservation as the MVP, and both Web Check-in and Kiosk Check-in are automated to reflect this exemption.”

Okay, I wasn’t ticked any more. Alaska once again proved that they care about their customers. As a frequent flyer, I was delighted that I was sent this message and appreciated the way they are honoring me for being a loyal customer.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Programs that honor your loyal customers do work. What are doing to honor the people that keep coming back to do business with you?

2009-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

PUBLISHING YOUR BOOK

As I write this, I can proudly say that my book “It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: It’s all about Communication” is a “Best Book Finalist USA Book News”. In addition, I can say that the money I spent self-publishing was worth every dime. Finally, I am pleased to tell you sales profits have far succeeded the original expense. You can buy the book on my website: http://www.kathycondon.info
or on Amazon.

My next book is titled “Networking Fable: Are you the Tortoise or the Hare? I heard you and at last, I am going to write a book on my in-person networking tips. My goal is to have it out in the fall. Actually, I am going to publicly state that it will be released Tuesday, October 6, 2009. (Using my own coaching skills and assigning a goal date)

Since the publication of my book, I have had many people say to me “I’m going to pick your brain about how to publish a book. I’ll take you lunch.” The offer has come so many times I start to smile before they get the words out of their mouth.

It took me a LONG time to figure out the process and the learning curve was great. The last two months, before publication, I was tied to my computer for 14 hours a day for two months…not easy for an extrovert. The second book is going to be a breeze. Besides, I know the qualities people keep saying they like about the book.

As an Executive Coach, I would happily meet with you to share my tips and secrets. Over the phone or in person I can provide tips in two-hours that will save hours of research time. This process is a new tool in my toolbox and I will be proud to give you my full attention on the subject.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

When you see a meeting or seminar that looks interesting and your schedule is free, make a reservation. Pay for it and commit. When the day of the event rolls around and it is 6:00 a.m., you are much more likely to attend – you paid and you committed.

2009-04-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

SOCIAL NETWORKING GOING MAINSTREAM

Last week the buzz on Twitter started early that Oprah would be learning and at the same time teaching her viewers about the world of Twitter. Tweets (140 keystrokes) relaying information or telling the world what you are up to at any given time. Better yet, you share great information that you have found in your daily journeys whether it is on the Internet or out and about.

Oprah was a curious, she picked up the key attributes of social networking quickly, and last I knew she had close to 500,000 followers. A follower is someone who is on Twitter, has his/her own ID name (I suggest you use your name) and you can decide whose tweets you want to follow. As I write, I now have 1600 plus followers and I am following close to 1800 that are on Twitter.

Now the advantages:

1. It is an extremely positive atmosphere— Great way to start out your day. You will quickly get unfollowed if you start posting negative information or comments.

2. Particularly, if you want to learn more about social networking, the links others provide are invaluable---no way could you learn this fast without them.

3. You are connecting with people from all over the world, thus, there is always dialogue going on. Different time zones make it interesting for some people are just getting up – others heading to bed.

4. You practice writing without fluff --- the limit on strokes makes you really think about how to express your thoughts.

5. If you write interesting content, share and have fun with this technology you will be surprised at how your name will be known throughout the world.

Here’s a link to my interview with “The Columbian” and Julia Anderson, Business Editor http://tinyurl.com/dfbdkl

I am amazed how much I have learned since this article was published. Learning social networking certainly helps with maintaining and growing brain dendrites…no real need to do crosswords puzzles if you keep learning this constantly evolving technology.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Listening is a learned skill. It is important that you look the person in the eye and really “hear” what the person is saying, “That is how you make them feel significant or important”.

2009-04-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

BLOG IDEAS COME FROM LIVING MY LIFE

People wonder how I can write on my blog a couple of times a week. I have been blessed with a life that takes me to different corners of the world. However, most of the ideas are spurred by an interaction that takes place in my daily life. Many of you know I have been very active on http://linkedIn.com/kathycondon and http://www.twitter.com/kathycondon.

There is no question using these social media networks have increased my ability to open up to more of the world around me. Both of these social media networks have a built-in understanding that you will share your new discoveries and resources.

Often a point will be made on these networks and it triggers an interesting discussion. Even more importantly, the tweets and entries often reveal a new expert in a particular area—thus, a new resource for exploring a topic more extensively.

It has gotten to the point that I have to write my blog ideas down to make sure a great idea is not forgotten. In fact, I carry a little notebook and periodically go to that if I am stuck about a subject.

This week I attended the Chamber meeting in Battle Ground, Washington…got a couple of ideas. Had a great conversation with the District Administrator CA State Department of Rehabilitation Northern Division, hung up, and immediately wrote down important points of our conversation. A conversation with my marketing friend, Shelly Fleming, resulted in still more ideas.

My belief in order to write an effective blog you have to become aware of your life—kind of like putting it under a magnifying glass. Listen and keep your eyes open and then take your “findings” and enlarge them so you can share them with the world.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you are not feeling good about your relationship with one of your vendors, sit down and talk to them. More often than not, they are feeling uneasiness as well. Just did this and the vendor was relieved for he truly wanted to move in a different direction—he didn’t know how to tell me.

2009-04-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATIONS AND THE REWARDS

This past week I was the keynote speaker at the Puget Sound Career Development Association http://www.pscda.org on Mercer Island near Seattle.

Approximately 25 people who work daily in the career field gathered for their monthly meeting. It was fun to share my techniques on networking and give them a few of my favorite tips on intergenerational communication.

My host for the day and evening was Kate Duttro, a Career Coach/Consultant/Instigator http://www.careerchangeforacademics.com We met about ten years ago and over the years have developed a real respect for each other as people. However, even more importantly, we admire each other for how we stretch our minds and help individuals by providing them with tools that help them be the best they can be.

After the meeting, we came back to her place and the real stretching and growing of minds began. Kate’s home is full of books and it was fun watching her get up and find still another book to help prove her point or share one of her new findings. Kate is one of the library’s best friends.

Kate spends time on a university campuses and I spend most of my time when I am not speaking or training out about in the business community. Thus, we brought different approaches to solving the same issue. While the industries appear to be so different, the truth is people have the need for great communication skills.

We looked up at the clock and realized that it was 2:00 a.m. Neither one of us could even remember when we were up so late. I crawled into bed that night and realized Tony Robbins http://www.tonyrobbins.com is so right when he suggests you should spend time in an industry that is normally not part of your world so that you get a different perspective.

Now it is Monday morning and my task is to implement some of the great ideas we came up with for my career.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

When you make a presentation to a group of people, take two stacks of your contact cards and hand them out to the right and left of the audience and let them pass them on. The goal is to make it convenient for people to get in touch with you.

2009-03-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

VOLUNTEERING HELPS ME GROW

Last Saturday, I joined a group of Rotarians that had a task--Plant 50 trees along a hillside to prevent erosion in one of our local parks. Last fall we had gone there and planted many native plants and trees right at the river’s edge. It was fun to see some of the leaves coming out on those early plantings.

Experts were there to show us to plant the trees. We learned that there are different techniques for planting evergreens and deciduous trees. There we were dumping trees out of pots, partially filling the holes for the evergreen because they do not want to be planted as deep as the deciduous trees. Then placing them so they were not crooked and filled in the remaining soil.

Turns out the sod that was broken when digging the holes, needed to be turned upside and formed into a little channel on the downside of the hill around the tree base. Held the water better so it could soak. Then a final sprinkling of dirt covered the sod.

Nothing like stepping back and seeing the results of your efforts and knowing it will make a difference for our environment.

Learnings of the Morning:

1. It is great to ask a friend to go with you – she was pleased with what she learned. She was a big help. The conversation afterwards over a cup of coffee warmed our bodies and our souls.

2. Early Saturday morning we had accomplished something and we had gotten fresh air.

3. Great to spend time out of meetings with Rotarians…lots of smiles and joking with each other. We also met their friends and family members.

4. A confession--until last fall I never been to Leverich Park, here in Vancouver , WA. What a treasure I have been missing!

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you do not know the answer to a question, do not pretend that you do. Instead say, “I don’t know the answer to that, let me check and then I will get back to you”. Then, of course, your creditability depends on your getting back to them with the answer.

2009-03-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

SPEAKER AND TRAINER PREPARES FOR TRAVEL

For the last three weeks, I have been on the road speaking, training and consulting. I was in eight airports, six cities, and six different hotels. Now before you start feeling sorry for me, I want to explain how I approach this kind of travel.

As the time approaches, I scurried around my home and office getting things in place for I know my stops at home along the way will be brief. It is necessary to think ahead about the bills that need to be paid and projects that need attention in the future.

I approach each trip as an adventure. Clearly, there are interesting people for me to meet and things to learn. I research the Chamber of Commerce sites of the towns I am visiting to see if there is any kind of special event going on in the area. If not, I look at the attractions in or near the cities, I will be visiting. For example, when I headed down to Glendora, California, I realized Huntington Gardens was not far away. The Huntington Library is the home of the original “Blue Boy” and “Pink” and the gardens are spectacular.

Packing has become pretty routine though I have learned to try on a new combination of clothing before I pack it – including the jewelry that would work best with the outfit. I have it down--can now pack for four days in an overnight case. Trust me that is a real accomplishment for me.

The day I begin travel, I start with a swim no matter how early my flight is – I know actual exercise so far has not been built to my on-the-road schedule. I wear something on the plane that is comfortable and classy---learned long ago I am treated well if I am dressed well.

In order to make all the waiting bearable at the airport, I have bought a Priority Pass http://www.prioritypass.com that allows me to use the lounges of most airlines at the airport. Makes a huge difference when you get your feet up and in most lounges, there is free internet access to catch up on emails.

Time to get on the plane. Fill my aluminum bottle with water for there is never enough water for me a plane. In order to keep my ears/nose healthy, I take a decongestant and Afrin nasal spray. Lately, I have been using earplugs for the small planes….makes ones world much quieter and they say it helps with the air pressure.

Then it is time sit back, relax and get out the magazines that I have been meaning to read or continue reading the biography that peers into the lives of people who have lead fascinating lives.

So there you have it—Kathy Condon's preparation routine for travel.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you are trainer, make sure you bring both regular markers and whiteboard markers. Invariably, either the venue doesn’t have them or they don’t work well. Better to be prepared.

2009-03-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

AUTOGRAPHS FOR MY BOOKS

When my book “It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: It’s all about Communication” was released, it was a very special day when I held the first copy in my hand. Can’t really explain the feeling.

It was interesting, I struggled with how I should I sign the book if I knew the person well. Should I write Kathy or Kathy Condon? Should I use the current date?

Cannot tell you how much energy I wasted on trying to figure out how to sign the book. Then I realized I could pose the question on LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com Before I knew it I had answers flowing in to help me with my dilemma.

Yesterday, I was honored to be trainer for the California Placement Association http://www.calplacement.org at three different sites, San Mateo, Bakersfield, and Glendora, California. They purchased book for all attendees.

During the course of the day, attendees asked me to autograph their books. I made a decision. On the blank page following the title page I wrote something specifically for the individual and signed my whole name and dated it.

You can get advice from all over the world. When it comes down it, listen to your heart and do what that feels right for you. There is not a perfect person in the world---we are all unique – stay true to yourself.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Comment on your travels – hotels, places you enjoy etc., on travel sites such as http://www.tripadvisor.com, http://mybudgettravel.com you will be amazed how the search engines picks up on your comments.

2009-03-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

AIRPORT WAITING ROOMS

Last week was unusual for I was in and out of five airports. I have a Priority Pass http://www.prioritypass.com so I have the good fortunate of being able to use airline boardrooms or lounges at most airports. In those facilities, I can grab an espresso, find the local paper, and relax with my feet up on the numerous footstools that are scattered about the room. Clocks and airline schedules for arrival and departures are numerous.

It is time for me to gather up my stuff and head to the gate. Arriving at the gate, I notice there is very little room left to sit. I spy a seat between two people, so I settled in until boarding time.

Then I noticed something. The only people talking are parents working to keep their two-year old under some semblance of control. The scene included four people reading the newspaper, three people reading books, four people on laptops, and five people on cell phones and six people checking their emails.

People were communicating to some degree-across the country to love ones and colleagues are connecting, yet, they were only using words. The tone and body language of the communication was lost. I truly felt like an outsider peering into the private worlds of individuals….hard to explain.

Then I turned to the man next to me who was sitting there waiting. We began a conversation about life in the Midwest were I was from and where he was heading to visit a friend. The next thing I knew we were laughing and sharing our experiences with each other. He is an engineer that lives in Alaska that works on fire prevention on the Alaska pipeline.

When it was time to board, we smiled at each other and shook hands. It truly was a pleasure meeting and learning about someone’s life in his own words--tone and body language included.

Going to remember on my next trip to connect with more people….there is so much I do not know and what a great arena for stretching your mind.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

On business trips, take along plain white envelopes. Makes it easy to organize business and personal receipts.

2009-03-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

BUSINESS CARDS ARE SHRINKING IN SIZE

Actually, the correct statement is “Contact Cards are Shrinking in Size”. The trend toward naming them contact cards was started because people who were looking for work were not carrying cards because they did not have a business.

A contact card is necessary for those seeking employment. One cannot leave a resume with everyone you meet, but you can leave a contact card. It should include:

Name

Address

Phone number

Email Address

Note, I have left off position – companies have too many different names for the same job. In addition, when you are being interviewed, perhaps, there is a job with a better fit for your skills.

If you are a business owner, you know the importance of having your contact cards with you at all times. The more cards you can send out into the world, the better. One businessperson recently said, “Give them out like they are candy”.

Have you seen the new contact cards appearing out in the world-- the ones that measure ½ inch by 2.5 inches? On one side a glossy picture of something . The other side a name, or whatever material the individual wants to include in font size about 3 pt. – maybe even less.

Now for my reaction about miniature cards.

1. First, they are hard to hang on to and where do you put them? The one I received yesterday I had to really “fish” for it in my pocket this morning to find it so I could measure it.

2. No question I had to put my glasses on to read the information and even then, it was hard to read because this particular card was printed with red ink.

3. There is absolutely no room to write any kind of note on it.
a. To remind yourself where you met the person.
b. To write yourself a note to remind you to follow-up.

4. Now where do I put it so it doesn’t disappear forever?

Smiling--feel like the same way I do about a recent redesign of a Tide bottle. Never in my life had I written complaint about a product container – yet wrote, “Who at your company thought this bottle design was a good one”?

Tropicana went back to its' original packaging after customers’ complaints.

My personal belief is tiny contact cards was an idea --- an idea that probably should be shelved as soon as possible.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Learn from my mistake. Each time you put a link into an email, article, tweet, etc, test it before you send it. This week I sent out my "Weekly Wisdom" and accidentally put two periods in my blog address.

2009-02-26T15:59:00.000-08:00

FOCUS ON THE GOOD THINGS

It was suppose to snow this morning so that it was “iffy” if I was going to the State of City address by Mayor of America’s Vancouver, Royce Pollard. Since we live in a temperate climate, I am not the owner of snow tires. In this area, when a snowflake falls things are immediately cancelled so I have never even entertained the idea of buying snow tires.

Snow was melting when I got up, so read my paper, and then got dressed for the event where the who’s who of Vancouver shows up to hear how our city is doing. My hope was that I didn’t have to go there and hear how bad things are – we get enough of that every place we go.

As I suspected, the Hilton Heritage Ballroom was alive with people when I arrived. There were hugs and greetings from people I only see at this event. The politicians were there, photographers, city employees and average citizens all coming together to hear and learn about how our city is doing.

A video was shown with actors portraying what our city was like in 1989. As my daughter would say “It was right on spot”. Along side of the picture/dialogue were facts and figures to show how far we have come in 10 years. Let’s just day we could not help but feel good.

The Mayor ended his speech with the announcement SEH American (wafer tech company) is going to expand its operation in Vancouver, Washington. This will mean approximately 1,000 new jobs in our community. In addition, SEH also gave us a gift of $1 million to build a Japanese Garden on our Clark College Community Campus.

Optimism was the word of the day. Lots of great one-on-one networking happened between people. Our Chief Ranger of Fort Vancouver National Park told a group of us the Park had over 890,000 visitors last year – one the highest attendance rates of any of our National Parks in the United States.

Make the effort to attend your community-wide events so you can learn and connect with your fellow citizens. Feeling really good about the future.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

When you attend a community event, make an effort to introduce people you work with and believe in to others. Watch how quickly they return the favor.