Pitch Perfect: How to Say It Right the First Time, Every Time (How to Say It Right the First Time, Every Time Hardcover)

by Bill McGowan

Every time you speak, it’s an opportunity to inform, influence, and inspire.

Among the top blunders that kept people from getting promoted, according to the study: racially biased comments, off-color jokes, crying, swearing, flirting, public scratching, avoiding eye contact, rambling, giggling too much, and speaking shrilly. All of those blunders stem from poor communication

Winston Churchill said, “You’ll never get to your destination if you stop to throw stones at every dog that barks.”

The best way to stay on point is to make sure the flow and focus of the discussion plays to your strengths. If it strays elsewhere, away from an area in which you can shine, transition it back. It’s the ole Don Draper adage, “If you don’t like what’s being said, change the conversation.”

Fairness + Honesty + Empathy = Good Outcome.