First impressions aren’t just important. They’re decisive.
Unfortunately, many professionals start strong… in their heads. What comes out? Generic, forgettable, and flat. That’s why I created the Cold Open Checklist — a practical, proven guide to help you:
✅ Capture attention in the first few seconds
✅ Choose an opening that fits your message and your audience
✅ Avoid common mistakes that dilute your presence and impact
This free resource is for leaders, consultants, and anyone who wants to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and charisma.
First impressions aren’t just important. They’re decisive.
Unfortunately, many professionals start strong… in their heads. What comes out? Generic, forgettable, and flat. That’s why I created the Cold Open Checklist — a practical, proven guide to help you:
✅ Capture attention in the first few seconds
✅ Choose an opening that fits your message and your audience
✅ Avoid common mistakes that dilute your presence and impact
This free resource is for leaders, consultants, and anyone who wants to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and charisma.
Connecting with Others is a Skill, as Well as a Talent
Let me share a secret with you.
The ability to make a strong first impression, influence and persuade people, spread ideas. To get seen, get heard, and get raises … most people aren’t born with that.
Even the smartest, most talented people in the world can have trouble saying the right words in the right way to make the impact they need to make.
That’s the good news.
Because it means these skills can be developed.
This is what I offer. Simple, concrete steps to strengthen critical communication skills. And I do it in a way that’s fun and that sticks.
Speaking
Do you represent a business organization, association, or women’s group? You can help your people connect with each other and with the world more powerfully and persuasively … and have fun doing it.
Coaching
Do you need more personal attention than a speaking event offers? For smaller groups or even one-on-one, coaching sessions may be the right way to go.
Latest Blog Posts
Keep the Ball Rolling
Keep the Ball Rolling – There I was in the fitness center at my new home, thinking about you. You might know I’ve just moved out of my Chicago bungalow after 42 years (!) and into an apartment in a beautiful suburban building. I’m eager to get to know my new neighbors. That’s why I was so happy to chat with one of those neighbors when I got on the elliptical machine next to his. I could tell you a lot about Harold—when he moved in, where he lived before, where each of his kids lives, which part of the year he’s here and when he leaves for a warmer spot, how old he is, and … well, you get the idea. What do you suppose Harold knows about me after our chat on the elliptical machines? That’s right. Nothing. Harold forgot about taking turns.
Genuine Connection in a Digital World
Genuine Connection in a Digital World. “It’s as much about the energy you project as it is about the content of what you say,” said a wise woman. Oh wait, that wise woman was me! And I said it on Thought Leaders Talk Business, the podcast Debbie Fliehman hosts.
Debbie and I had a terrific conversation about a huge challenge for professional people, whether we labor for a multinational corporation, a small local business, or hang out a shingle on our own. How do we communicate with authenticity and impact in an increasingly virtual world?
Where are You Shining Your Spotlight?
Where are you shining your spotlight? It showed up again the other night. A friend was telling me a story as we sat at the restaurant, and her eyes never met mine. From the moment she began to describe what happened, she gazed up and to the right, disconnecting from me. It’s a common habit. It might be yours. Here’s why it’s a problem. Imagine your face as a spotlight. Every time you start a conversation you shine that spotlight somewhere. You’ll have more impact if you shine it on the people you’re talking with.
