Do you find persuasion easy? For most of us, the answer probably is some version of “sometimes.” It’s a broad question, with lots of variables: what you are “asking” for, the environment and situation, the person being asked, and several other variables can all play a part in how easily the persuasion happens… or if it happens at all.

In today’s world, we often find ourselves communicating in international contexts without even realizing it. To be an effective, persuasive communicator, it’s important to understand who’s in your audience and anticipate any cultural gaps that could obscure your message.

You need your credibility if you want to accomplish anything. And it is hard to have any credibility if you always disappoint. We’re focused on simple ideas here at The Latimer Group. And today, we’re thinking about honest communication that manages expectations.

Let’s talk about building credibility… real credibility. Not the short term version of credibility that comes from a referral or a common friendship or the personal courtesy of someone giving you a chance. No… let’s talk about the long-term credibility that is built by you, your actions and your performance.

Twice a week, The Latimer Group’s experienced facilitators deliver clear, succinct, and actionable lessons about business communication to tens of thousands of readers worldwide. Here’s the latest entry:

Where does true credibility come from? The short answer is “many places,” including the following three critical areas

The point of today’s post is this… listening matters. And not all forms of listening are equal. There are surface ways of listening, and deeper ways of listening. And when we can understand what those levels are, then we have a full toolbox and a stronger skill set.

Great communication is based on the ability to ask the correct questions, listen carefully, and make consistently good choices. Great communication is about seeing the whole board in front of you.

I’m here today to remind you that your work is important, but so is having the space to rest, recharge and recover. My time in the kitchen mixing dough and baking bread is my “me time.” It clears my mind and makes my heart happy.

If we look at our communication as if it were a meal that our audience will consume, we’ll of course want to prepare a communication “meal” they will enjoy. And in order to do that, there are 5 ingredients that must be included in our recipe

The best communicators carry around different lenses in their metaphorical camera bag, and depending on the situation will bring out a different lens.

Great stories and great storytelling are what will stand out among your clients and colleagues, and will make your communication more memorable and more effective. So what goes into great storytelling? Here are five key ideas:

In so many organizations, we see discussions around problem solving go wrong. In order for an organization to be effective at solving problems, there has to be a framework of questions that will lead towards full alignment on the issue. Once we have that alignment, then we can have a serious conversation around legitimate solutions.

Let’s get a few things straight about what persuasive communication is NOT…