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May 16, 2008

Cup of Joe (Williams)

A Cup Of Joe (Williams): Discussions & Debating

  • Know your subject as well as your mind is capable of.
  • Believe in what you say.
  • Tell it in your own words, just as you see it. Paint a word picture.
  • If you disagree with the issue, don't insult the other point of view. (They may be just as sincere as you are).
  • Through it all, realize that the other person may be better educated, smarter, better looking, more talented, etc. But he's just as much human and a jerk as you are, and makes just as many (or more) mistakes.

"A Cup of Joe (Williams)" represents advice I received in letters from my grandfather back in the 80s. I didn't appreciate the advice at the time (what kid does?), but see now the life (and business) lessons he shared. I hope to share more in the future

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August 15, 2007

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

In the Eye of the Beholder: Know Your Audience


In South Africa in the early 1970s, most of the men who worked in the mines were illiterate. The miners, therefore, were given instructions and warnings in the form of symbols rather than words.

In an effort to enlist the miners' help in keeping mine tracks clear of rock, the South African Chamber of Mines posted this pictorial message:

But the campaign failed miserably. More and more rocks blocked the tracks.

The reason was soon discovered. Miners were indeed reading the message, but from right to left. The obligingly dumped their rocks on the tracks.

I love this lesson. Are there things about your audience/customers that you've made assumptions about?

The illustration and story are found in the book "Symbol Sourcebook: An Authoritative Guide to International Graphic Symbols" by Henry Dreyfuss (© 1972).

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August 13, 2007

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

International Signage: Clarity of Message

To be respectful when visiting the historic churches in Europe, visitors are advised that they need to be dressed properly. That means wearing long pants, not shorts, and having your shoulders covered - no sleeveless tops.

At the Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican City in Italy they have even higher standards. According to the signage outside of the church, loose body parts are not permitted.

If that shoulder implant or artificial leg have the potential to come loose and fall off, you are not allowed to enter.

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