DAVID SHAFER
EDITOR’S LETTER
Charting Success Influencers of Tomorrow
DearReaders,
Theglobalentrepreneuriallandscapeisdynamic,offeringopportunitiesandchallenges. Entrepreneursareuniquelypoisedtotacklecomplexglobalissueslikeclimatechange,poverty, andinequalitythroughinnovation.Simultaneously,theygrapplewiththedemandsofacompetitiveglobal economy,securingcapital,talent,andmarketaccess.Keytrendsincludetheriseofsocialentrepreneurship, techsectorgrowth,globalization,andthegigeconomy,introducingbothopportunitiesandcomplexities, especiallyinbalancingsocialandfinancialobjectives.
Nevertheless,thescopeforglobalentrepreneurshipremainsvast,withopportunitiesspanningvarious industriesandscales.Notably,technology,socialimpact,healthcare,andeducationstandoutaspromising sectors.Theglobalentrepreneuriallandscapeoffersbothpromiseandadversity.Entrepreneursareactively contributingtosolvingpressingglobalissues.Theycreateinnovativetechnologiestocombatclimatechange, reduceemissions,andpromoterenewableenergy.Theydesignbusinessmodelstoalleviatepovertyby generatingjobs,particularlyindevelopingregions,whileenhancingtheaffordabilityandaccessibilityof essentialgoodsandservicestopromoteequality.Entrepreneurshipplaysapivotalroleineconomicgrowth, innovation,jobcreation,andaddressinghumanity'smostpressingconcerns.
Withavigilanteyeonevolvingtrends,wearedelightedtointroduceourlatestmagazineissue,“The10Most InfluentialEntrepreneursin2023.”Thesevisionaryleadershaveharnessedcurrententrepreneurialdynamics, shapingthefutureofbusiness,innovation,andglobalproblem-solving.
MeetDavidShafer,ChiefEntrepreneurofCognia,offeringinvaluableinsightsintotheevolvingEdTech sector Withovertwodecadesofentrepreneurialandcross-industryleadershipexperience,heguidesusthrough thechallengesandsuccessesofbuildingnewventures,drawingintriguingparallelswithasolitaryjourney
ApartfromDavidShafer'sexpertise,ourexplorationofinfluentialfigurescontinueswithleaderslikeAmy Osmond,MelissaMata,VladaLiashchenko,andSteveSimons.Joinusindiscoveringtheiruniqueperspectives andcontributionsacrossvariousdomains.
Happy reading!
Tejas Tahmankar
Project EditoR
PUBLISHER
ARCHANA
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
VIKRAM
MANAGING
PANKAJ
PROJECT
TEJAS
PROJECT
COLTER
KSHITIJ
VISUALIZER
MARK
GRAPHIC
ASHWINI
AAKASH
ROBERT
RESEARCH
JAMES
MARIA
David Shafer 12 CON T EN T
Supporting School Improvement with Entrepreneurial Insight
DAVID SHAFER
Chief Entrepreneur
Duringthepast25years,theEducationalTechnology
Sector(’EdTech’)hasexperiencedsignificant investmentandgrowth.Today,themarketseemstobe consolidatingorslowingdown.Thequestionthatarisesis,can thesecompaniesbesuccessful?Orwhyaren’ttheyassuccessful astheyprojected?Tohelpustacklethesechallenges,wehave theinsightsofDavidShafer,ChiefEntrepreneurofCognia.
Withovertwodecadesofentrepreneurialandleadership experience,DavidShaferisaprominentfigureinthebusiness world.Heexcelsinstrategicandtacticalleadership, consistentlydrivingthedevelopmentofnewcompaniesand optimizingleadershipteams.Hisexpertisespansdiverse industries,includingeducation,television,featurefilms, entertainment,andbanking.Reflectingonhisjourney,David comparesbuildinganeworganizationtohavinganunseen companiononlyvisibletoyourself.Heexplains, “The trick is to find the first few who can see your invisible friend and can grow to be as passionate about it as you are. Finding those people,
your co-founders or early leaders, was critically important in my successes and, in reflection, critically obvious in my failures.”
DavidShafer’sCareer
David’scareerjourneyhasbeenfarfrom conventional.Asfarbackashighschool,David seemeddisruptiveandoftenfoundhimselfintrouble. Thiswasn’tparticularlypleasantforhisparents,who bothtaughtinpublicschools.Hisbehavioroftenhad himindetention;in11thgrade,hefacedimpeachment fromthepositionofclassvicepresident,andasa senior,hispeerselectedhim‘ClassClown.’Duringhis undergraduateexperienceatMillersvilleUniversity (Pennsylvania),Davidwasonandoffacademic probation,atonepointtakingasemesteroffduetoa fewminorengagementswithcampuslaw enforcement.Hedidmanagetofoundanewfraternity oncampus(whichremainsinoperationtoday)and eventuallygraduated.Today,hecontinueshis educationatHarvardBusinessSchooland,unlike whenhewasyounger,activelyparticipatesinlectures, achangefueledbytwofactors:(a)perhapssome maturityand(b)theappreciationofthepowerof learning.
David’scareerjourneybeganinbroadcastsalesdueto aninternshipatanNBCtelevisionstation.Hesawthe salespeopledrivingexpensivecarsandseemingly alwaysinarushanddecidedthatwasagoodplaceto startforhim.Whilebecomingatopperformervery quickly,itwasn'tlongbeforehepivotedintothestartupspace.Hequitbeingasalespersonforhisinitial venture,FrontlineEducation.Thisearlyed-tech companywasco-foundedwithtwootherindividuals thatgrewtoserveover12,000+schoolsystemsand wereacquiredfor$1.1billionin2017.Another noteworthyachievementwasleadingtheintroduction oftheSkycam™aerialbroadcastcamerasystem.This innovationrevolutionizedthecoverageofaerialsports andhassinceearnednumerousEmmysand2 AcademyAwards.
In2009,Davidventuredintoadifferentrealm—the bankingsector.SabadellUnitedBankwasformedby acquiringandrevitalizingseveralfailedcommunity banksinSouthFlorida.Theroleheplayedwasthe strategyfortheorganizationtobeproactiveandgrow fast.Thiseffortprovedhighlysuccessful,resultingin theeventualsaleofthebankfor$1.03billion.
In2017,aftercontinuallyhearinghowteacherswere leavingtheprofession,heestablishedKademEducation andrecruitedseveraltopeducatorsandresearcherstoseek awaytohelp.ThecompanylaunchedtheMyVoice platform,aformative/ongoingapplicationthatcaptures criticalaspectsofhowteachersfeelinside—enabling opportunitiesforimprovementsandretention.Presently, heservesastheChiefEntrepreneurforCognia,Inc.,a 125+year-oldglobalnonprofitschoolevaluationand improvementcompanythatselectedhimtoworkclosely withtheirCEOforstrategiccomponents,acquisitions,and partnerships.HestatesCogniaissomewhatlikea100year-oldstart-upledbyoneofthemostinnovativepeople he'severmet.
Exploringhiscareerandsuccessisonething,buthe creditshiseffectivenessmostlytohisfailures.Havinga ‘failureisnotanoption’attitudeseemsgreat,butthe realityisfailureislearning—andlearningisadvancement. ‘Failingforward’ishowheapproacheshisworknowand continuestoleadwitha‘servantleadership’mentality
Outsideofhisbusinessventures,in2022Davidrecently co-authored“LeadingSchoolCultureThroughTeacher VoiceandAgency,”highlightingtheresearchthat supportedtheMyVoiceprogram.Additionally,hehas servedthreetermsasapubliclyelectedschoolboard directorinthePhiladelphiasuburbs.Hehasbeenengaged withvariousnonprofitandcommunityorganizations, includingexecutiveboardpositionswiththeBoyScouts ofAmericaandtheYMCA.
WhileDavid’sexperiencesspanvariousindustries,his trueprofessionalpassionissupportingteachersand improvingschools.Thiscommitmentisdeeplyrootedand potentiallyinfluencedbyhisupbringing.Amidadiverse rangeofbusinesspursuits,hismostsignificantimpact becomesclearwhenitpertainstoenhancingeducation.
NurturinganEnvironmentofProductivityandShared Commitment
Whenitcomestomaintainingmotivatedandproductive teams,Davidoffersadistinctviewpoint.Hebelievesthat therealsolutionliesintheinitialselectionofteam members.Hestates, “Focusing on keeping people motivated is actually treating the symptom vs. the problem; I’ve found if you select the right people in the first place—who truly care about the company’s mission—then keeping them adequately supported and compensated is all you need to provide.”
Oncetheappropriateteamisinplace,effectiveand opencommunicationbecomesvital.Ensuringthat teammembersfeelempoweredtobringforwardideas, continuallychallengethestatusquo,beengaged,and comprehendhowtheireffortscontributetothemission iscrucial.Thisopenconnectionkeepstheirmotivation andproductivityhigh.Davidhasnoticedthatwhena groupofcommittedpeoplehasagrowthmindsetand iswillingtocontinuallylearn,amazingadvancements occur Whetherit’sinaccounting,project management,development,orsales,theentireteam remainsunitedduetotheirshareddedicationtothe organization’smission.
BeyondtheFinishLine
Concerninghobbiesandinterests,David’spursuits havechangedovertheyears,buthehasalwaysbeen activeinsportsandcompetitions.Hefindsenjoyment inendurancesports,havingcompletedsevenfull marathonssofarandover20half-marathons.Formost ofhiscareer,hispersonaltimewasfocusedonbeing involvedasmuchaspossibleinraisingthreeactive childreninvolvedinsportsandtheater Today,withhis kidseitherincollegeorgraduated,hecanbefound golfing,traveling,ortailgatingforthePhiladelphia PhilliesandEagles.
AdviceforAspiringEntrepreneurs
Davidsharesacoupleofpiecesofadvicedrawnfrom hisdecadesoffirsthandexperience.
●Behyper-focusedontheProblem:Howmuchtime ormoneyareyouabletosaveyourclientswith yournewthing?Isthisaproblemtheyconsider serious? Isthisaproblemthatiswellknown?
●KeepEverythingSimple:Communicationmustbe tight.Ifit’sacomplexproblem,explainyour solutioninsimpleterms.I’veseenfartoomany venturesstruggleorwereinvitedintohelpdueto theirlackofsimplification.
●Don’tplantoofardowntheroadinthe beginning: Gettingeverythingrightinanemergingbusiness simplyneverhappens.Buildprojectionsand modifythemoften—especiallyinthebeginning. Knowingwhereandhowyourinnovationmaybest beusedneedstimeandexploration.
We either win or we learn “
A Strategic Leader Pioneering Marketing Solutions
Dr.AmyOsmondCookisarenownedleaderin
thefieldofmarketing,recognizedasthe FounderandCEOofStageMarketing.Withan impressivebackgroundasaneditorandwriter,she possessesawealthofexperiencespanningvariouswriting genres,rangingfromengagingblogstocompelling articlesandevenfull-lengthbooks.
Amy’seducationaljourneyhasbeenoneofrelentless pursuitandacademicexcellence.Sheholdsbotha Bachelor’sandMaster’sdegreeinEnglishandaPh.D.in communication.Overthepast15years,shehas intermittentlysharedherexpertisebyteachingwritingand communicationclassesatprestigiousinstitutionssuchas BYU,ASU,andtheUniversityofUtah.
Beyondheracademicpursuits,Amyhasbecomeatrusted ghostwriterfornumerousCEOswhoseektoestablish theirvoicesininfluentialpublicationslikeForbes, Entrepreneur,andTheWallStreetJournal.Additionally, shehascarvedherpathasacolumnist,regularly contributingtoesteemedpublicationssuchasTheOC Register,TheDailyHerald,DeseretNews,andCupid’s Pulse.Hercolumnsprovidevaluableadviceandthoughtprovokingcommentaryonvarioussubjects.
StageMarketingiswidelyrecognizedforbeingthemost business-friendlyagency.Recognizedforits comprehensiverangeofservices,StageMarketingworks withStartups,SMBs,andenterpriseorganizationsto developcustomizedmarketingplansacrossthecustomer 360journey.Overthepast14years,Stagehasdeveloped 15corecompetenciesin-houseindigital,experiential,and partnermarketing;salesenablement;andcustomer success.AsadistinguishedGooglePartnerandHubspot PlatinumPartner,thecompanyoffersanextensivesuiteof businessandmarketingsolutionstailoredtoclients’ uniqueneedsacrossvariousindustriesandsizes.
Thisnarrativehasbeenconstructedbasedonanin-depth conversationwithAmy,whereweexploredthemany facetsofherleadership.Bydelvingintoherremarkable journeyandthesuccessofStageMarketing,itbecomes
evidentthatAmy’sexceptionalleadershipskillshavebeen instrumentalinshapingthecompany’sgrowthand establishingitsprominenceintheindustry
AResilientJourneyofSuccess
Amy’seducationalandprofessionaljourneyisatestament toherresilienceanddeterminationinthefaceofpersonal andfinancialchallenges.Herstoryisoneofturning adversityintosuccess,anditallbeganin2002whenshe becamedivorcedattheyoungageof26,raisingtwoyoung childrenandburdenedbydebtasshepursuedhergraduate studies.
Despiteherobstacles,Amyperseveredandcontinuedher educationalpursuits.ShecompletedhermastersinEnglish, Rhetoric,andComposition,whereshediscoveredher passionforwriting.Littledidsheknowthatthisinterest andtalentwouldplayasignificantroleinherfuture endeavors.
Amy’slifesignificantlyturnedin2008whenhernew husband,Jeff,landedapromisingjobatLehmanBrothers. Theythoughttheirfinancialstruggleswereover,but unfortunately,thesubprimemortgagecrisisshatteredtheir hopes.Suddenly,theironce-stablefuturebecameuncertain.
Inthefaceofthisunexpectedsetback,Amytookthe initiativetohelpsupportherfamily.Sheembarkedonparttimewritingandeditingjobs,leveragingherskillsto contributetotheirfinancialstability.Itwasduringthis challengingperiodthatanopportunityforentrepreneurship presenteditself.
Driventoovercometheirfinancialstruggles,Jeffproposed achallengetoAmy Theyeachtook$5,000fromtheirtax returnanddecidedtoseewhocouldgeneratethemost significantreturnoninvestment.WhileJeffventuredinto realestate,Amyseizedtheopportunitytoestablishherown company,StageMarketing.
Foundedwithher$5,000investment,StageMarketing startedasasmallventurebutquicklygainedtraction.
Founder & CEO
Stage Marketing
DR. Amy Cook
“
It’s more important to hire the right person than it is to hire for the position you have open.
Amy’sentrepreneurialspiritand expertiseinwritingandmarketing propelledthecompanyforward.Over 14years,StageMarketinghas experiencedcontinuousgrowthand remainsathrivinganddynamic enterprisetoday
StageMarketing:AFull-funnel DigitalandExperientialGo-toMarketCompany
“The reason I started Stage Marketing is because my family needed it,” states Amy.Foundedin2009,Stage Marketingquicklyevolvedintoa comprehensivedigitalandexperiential go-to-marketcompany,exceeding Amy’sinitialexpectations.
Fromtheoutset,Amyapproached eachprojectandclientasanew opportunity,pouringherfulleffortinto helpingthemachievetheirgoals.This wholeheartedcommitmenttoher clientsdidn’tgounnoticed.Thevalue sheplacedontheirsuccessfostered strongpartnershipsandfriendships, layingthefoundationforlong-term growth.
AtStageMarketing,themissionis straightforward:toempower customerstosucceed.Understanding thatdifferentorganizationshave
distinctobjectives,thecompany adaptsitsstrategiesandservicesto meetindividualclientneeds. Whetherthefocusisondriving top-linerevenueorimproving overallprofitability,Stage Marketingisdedicatedto facilitatingitsclients’business goals.
Asthecompanygraduallygained momentum,additionalservices wereintroducedinresponseto clientrequests.Amychosea bootstrapapproach,allowingthe businesstogrowsteadilyand organically.Thisapproach prioritizedthesatisfactionof clientsandthefine-tuningof processes,ratherthansolely focusingonrapidnumerical growth.Thisdeliberateapproach ensuredthatStageMarketing maintaineditscommitmentto excellenceandsuperiorclient service.
Overtime,StageMarketing assembledaremarkableteamof top-notchmarketersand communicationspecialists.Amy vividlyrecallsthemixtureofthrill andtrepidationwhenherfirstparttimeemployeeexpressedthedesire tojointhecompanyonafull-time
basis.Sincethen,StageMarketinghas flourished,currentlyboastingadiverse teamofover50employeesoperating acrossvariousU.S.locations,aswell asthePhilippinesandSouthAmerica. Witnessingthisexpansionhasbeena realizationofAmy’sdreams,marking anincrediblejourneyofgrowthand achievement.
StageMarketing’sPioneering Approach
StageMarketingstandsapartinthe severelycompetitivemarketing industrywithadistinctiverangeof servicesandsolutionsthatredefinethe meaningofvalue.Itstandsoutfrom thecompetitionbyprovidingaunique valueproposition.
StageMarketing’sconsistent dedicationtoprovidingconsumerswith outstandingvalueisatthecoreofits productsandservices.Thebusiness takesexcellentsatisfactioninoffering unmatchedtop-notchservicesinterms offlexibility,accessibility,and openness.Itrecognizesthegenuine conceptofvalue,unlikeotheragencies, andensuresthateveryclientbenefitsto thefullest.
TheadaptabilityofStageMarketing’s servicesisoneoftheirdistinguishing qualities.Thebusinessquickly switchesbetweenseveralbenefitswith ablendedcoststructuretomeetthe changingdemandsofcustomers.The companyadjustsspeedilyandwithout effort,whetherforacompletewebsite redesignoraprojectincludingall aspectsofeventmanagement.
Anotheressentialfeaturethat distinguishesStageMarketingis affordability Thebusinessdelivers outstandingcost-effectivenessbecause itunderstandsthatemployeesareits competitors,nototheragencies.Forthe costofasingleinternalemployee,
clientsmaybenefitfromthe knowledgeandskillsofawhole marketingteam.Thismethod removeslong-termcontractsand relatedHRcomplicationswhile maximizingvalue.
StageMarketingiscommittedto beingbusiness-friendlyand demonstratesthisthroughits transparentbillingpractices.Every projectandhouristrackedprecisely, allowingclientstoseetheexactvalue theyreceivefortheirmoney This leveloftransparencyisuncommonin theindustry,butStageMarketing believesitisessential.
Despitethecriticismand contradictoryadvice,Amybelieved focusingoncustomerqualityand employeesatisfactionwouldgenerate excellentresults.Thesuccessof StageMarketingspeaksforitself.As otherfirmsstrivetoreplicatetheir concept,StageMarketingisadecade aheadofitscompetition.The company’sconstantfocusonoffering outstandingvaluekeepsitatthe forefrontofinnovationandcustomercentricity
IndustriesinFocus
Thehealthcare,technology,andreal estatesectorsareareaswhereStage Marketingexcels.Byblendingdigital andexperientialmarketing,itensures outstandingresults.Flexibility, adaptability,andtargetingthe relevantadsthroughthebest channelstotherightaudienceatthe righttimearetheirsecrettools.They knowthevalueofsmoothasset deliveryandusetheirstrategic alliancewithHubSpottostayontop. “When technology and marketing work together, the results can be outstanding,” assertsAmy.Withdeep expertiseinhealthcare,technology, andrealestate,StageMarketing
minimizesindustrychallenges. Theyareareliablepartnerin attaininglong-termsuccess duetotheircreative approaches,technological developments,andan everlastingdedicationtovalue.
Amy’sLeadershipRole
Asthefounder,Amyis responsiblefordetermining StageMarketing’sdirection whilesupportingheramazing staff.Sheenablesstaffto managedailytasks,focusing ondrivingbusinessgrowthand assistingclients.Amy’shighenergyleadershipfosters innovationandquality, ensuringStageMarketing producesoutstanding outcomes.Hercommitmentto creatingapositiveworkplace culturedistinguishesherasa prominentindustryleader.Her passionforsuccessandthe fulfillmentofbothcustomers andstaffdrivesStage Marketing’scontinued progress.
LifebeyondOffice
Beyondherprofessional endeavors,Amyindulgesin varioushobbiesandinterests, fosteringawell-balancedlife. Shefindspeaceand satisfactioninplayingthe violin,whichshelearnedto playasachildinaperforming family.Inheryoungerdays, sheevenperformedonstage withherfamilyinBranson, Missouri.
Asavidadventurers,Amyand herhusbandalsofeedtheir wanderlustthroughtravel. Exploringnewdestinations
andimmersingthemselvesindifferent culturesisarejuvenatingescapefromthe demandsofdailylife.
WiseWordsforGrowth
Amyembodiesresilience,vision,and dedication.Herprofessionaljourney showcasesthepowerofperseveranceand servesasaninspirationtoaspiring entrepreneurs.Shesharesheradvicethat willhelpentrepreneursgrowtheir companies. “When you recognize great talent and ability in someone, move heaven and earth to make them part of your team, even if you need to allow for additional flexibility to accomplish it.”flexibility to accomplish it.”
“Be true to yourself and your own style of leadership rather than necessarily trying to copy others.”
HABITSOF 7 THE EFFECTIVE PEOPLE HIGHLY
[SummaryandTakeaways]
“We came to the realization that in order to change the situation, we needed to initiate a transformation within ourselves.” Centraltothiseffectiveselftransformationwastheneedtomodifyour perceptions.Manyindividualsareconstantlystriving forself-improvement,asourhabitsgraduallyshapeus throughoutourlives.Thesebehavioralpatternsplaya crucialroleinforminginitialimpressionswhen interactingwithothers.Ifyouareanadultseeking waystoenhanceyourpersonalgrowth,‘The7Habits ofHighlyEffectivePeople’isavaluableresourcefor you.
StephenR.Covey,theauthor,profoundlyimpactedthe livesofnumerousindividualswiththisbook,which hasamassedover40millioncopiesinsales.This articleprovidesacomprehensivesummaryofthebook andhighlightsitssignificanttakeaways.
AbouttheAuthor
● StephenR.Covey(1932-2012)wasanAmerican educator,author,businessman,andrenowned speaker.
● Heauthoredseveralbest-sellingbooks,including “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” “The 8thHabit,”and“TheLeaderinMe.”
● Covey’snotablework,“TheSevenHabitsof HighlyEffectivePeople,”standsasoneofthe mostimportantbusinessbooksofthetwentieth century.
● Headvocatedforwhathereferredtoas“The CharacterEthic,”emphasizingthealignmentof one’svalueswithso-called“universaland
timeless”ideals.Additionally,heheldthedistinctionofbeing America’sfirstprominentnonfictionauthor
Inthisbook,Coveyinformsusaboutthe7habitsthatcan transformindividualsintohighlyeffectivepeople.
1. BeProactive
Theauthorstressestheimportanceoftakingresponsibilityinour lives,especiallyaswetransitionintoadulthood,whereothers perceiveusasindependentindividuals.Therefore,wehold completeresponsibilityfortheactionsandchoiceswemake.
Theauthorfurtheremphasizesthatwecannotshifttheblamefor ourbehaviorontoexternalfactorsorcircumstances.Ultimately, ourpersonallifedecisionsreflectourownchoices.
Hence,itiscrucialtotakeownershipofyourchoicesandstand firmlybythem,regardlessofthecircumstances.
Whethertheoutcomeispositiveornegative,youshouldfind reassurancewithinyourself.Avoidlettingexternalfactors influenceyourinternalstate;concentrateonhowyourespond.
Proactivepeopletakeownershipoftheirdecisionsandfocuson theactionstheycantaketoeffectchange,whilereactive individualstendtocomplainandadoptavictimmentality.Itis essentialtostaycommittedtoone’sgoals,andperhapsthemost vitalcommitmentanindividualcanmakeistotheirownselfimprovement.
2. BeginWiththeEndinMind
Tounderstandtheessenceofthishabit,Coveyurgesusto envisionafuneralscenario,promptingustocontemplatehowwe wouldwantourlovedonestorememberus.
Byundertakingthisthoughtexperiment;individualscanidentify theircorevalues,providingasturdyframeworkforguidingtheir actions.
Eachday,itiscrucialtoalignyourdailyactionswithyourlife’s overarchingvision,asthispracticecultivatescrucialvalues.By doingso,youequipyourselftoconfrontchallengesproactively andwithintegrity.
Toeffectivelyadoptthishabit,askyourselfthefollowing questions:1.Whatdoyouaspiretobecome?2.Whatactionsdo youintendtotake?3.Uponwhatprincipleshaveyoubuiltyour values?
Engaginginthisactivitywillhelpyoudevelopyour life’sprinciples,whichwillserveasyour guidebook.
Thisisanexceedinglycrucialundertaking,asthese principlesbecomethebedrockofyourlife,leading todailyflourishing.Regardlessoflife’schallenges, itisessentialtokeeptheseguidingprinciples steadfastandunwavering.
3. PutThingsFirst
Inthissection,theauthorpresentstwocrucial questionstocontemplate:
1. Whatistheonethingyouareneglecting thatcouldenhanceyourlife?
2. Whatistheonethingthathasthepotential toimproveyourbusiness?
Habit3canbesetinmotionbypracticingthefirst twohabits,asitcentersaroundself-management throughone’sstrongwill.
Havinganindependentwillmeansbeingthecaptain ofyourownship,whereyourintegrityguidesyour choices.Itiscrucialtoprioritizeimportantaspects oflifeandremaincommittedtoachievingthem.
However,adoptingadetrimentalhabitofsaying “No”tocertaintasksmightundermineallthe progressmadethroughprevioushabits.
Centeryouractionsaroundprinciplesand conscience,defineyourkeygoals,achievelife balance,andensureweeklyorganization.
Thesefocalpointsemphasizeenhancing relationshipsandresultsratherthanmerely maximizingyourtime.Byadoptingthisapproach, youwillbecomeahighlypracticalandeffective individual.
4. ThinkWin/Win
CoveyemphasizesthatWin-Winisnotmerelya techniquebutratheraphilosophythatindividuals shouldincorporateintotheirlives.
Thisapproachentailsseeking mutuallybeneficialagreementsor solutionsthatleaveeveryone satisfied,regardlessofthesituation. Thegoalistoensurethatallparties involvedfindtheoutcomefavorable.
Adoptingthishabitofcultivatinga Win-Winmindsetisvitalin fosteringhealthyinterdependence, astheauthorsuggestsittobethe mostfavorableemotionalstate.
EmbraceaWin-Winapproachto provebeneficialinadaptingto interpersonalrelationships.
Toachievethis,onemustexercise traitssuchasself-awareness, imagination,conscience,and independentwill.
TobecomeaWin-Winperson, embracefiveindependent dimensionsthatconstitutethishabit. ThesedimensionsincludeCharacter, Relationships,Agreements,WinWinPerformance,andprocessesfor cultivatingWin-Winsolutions.
5. SeekFirsttoUnderstand, ThenBeUnderstood
Theauthoremphasizesthe significanceofunderstandingothers beforeseekingtobeunderstood,as itgreatlyenhancesinterpersonal relationships.Cultivatingthishabit isoneofthemostvaluabletraitsone candevelop.
Whileweteachchildrentoread, write,andspeakfromayoungage, manyindividualsoftenoverlook listeningskills.
Coveyemphasizesthatindividuals withgoodinterpersonalskillsdonot manipulateothers.Instead,they conveytheirtruecharacter,andthis
authenticitynaturallydrawspeople towardsthem,leadingtoopenand engagingconversations.Wecallthis particularskillempatheticlistening.
Anempatheticlistenerhasthe abilitytoperceivetheworldfrom theotherperson’sperspectiveand genuinelyfeelwhattheotherperson isexperiencing.
Byunderstandingtheotherperson’s viewpoint,youcaneffectively communicateyourownthoughtsand bebetterunderstood.This heightenedlevelofunderstanding alsoenhancesthecredibilityofyour ideas.
6. Synergize
Synergyinvolvesacombinedaction whereapersonachievesmaximum synergyfromtheharmonious combinationofWin-Winhabitsand empatheticcommunication.
Embracingsynergyunleashesthe powerofprinciplesandisfounded ontheideathatthewholeisgreater thanthesumofitsparts.
Applyingsynergyinsocial interactionsisachallengeformany Coveyarguesthatsynergetic interpersonalinteractionsshouldbe apartofaperson’severydaylife.
Synergyrequiresvulnerability, openness,andcommunication.It balancesthemental,psychological, andemotionaldifferencesbetween people.
Synergyisallaboutcollaborating withotherstoaccomplishsomething thatwouldbeunattainableonyour own.
Itencompassesteamwork,teambuilding,andfosteringunitywith
otherhumanbeings.Synergy representsaninterdependentreality ofhumanlife.
7. SharpentheSaw
Tocontinuouslyenhanceyourwellbeingandperformance,focuson sharpeningthesawthrough regularlyandconsistentlyutilizing thefourdimensionsofmotivation: Physical,Emotional,Spiritual,and Mentalhealth.
Theauthoremphasizesthatyou driveyourlife’sperformance, makingitcrucialtoembracethis essentialability.
Balancingeachdimensioniscrucial becauseoverindulginginonearea leadstoneglectingtheothers. Sharpeningoneofthesedimensions willnaturallyfosterpositivityinthat particularaspectandtheother dimensionsaswell.
Asyouexperiencepersonalgrowth, yourself-awarenessalsoincreases. This,inturn,leadstoinevitable changesinyourpersonality
Asyouprogressandmoveforward, itbecomescrucialtocontinuously learn,dedicateyourselfmore,and consistentlyadherestoprinciplesto enhanceyourefficiencyand transformyourperspectivetowards others.
Inconclusion,personaldevelopment createsatransformativeperception ofoneselfintheeyesoftheworld. Actingwithmaturityearnsrespect andapproachabilityfromthose aroundyou.Thecoremessageofthe authoristoprioritizeself-respect andrespectforothers.Wetrustthat thisarticlehasgivenaconcise summaryof“The7HabitsofHighly EffectivePeople.”
Melissa Mata
MelissaMata,anaccomplishedentrepreneur,
servesastheesteemedCEOofElevated PropertiesInternational.Withafamily legacyrootedinentrepreneurshipandafatherwhoowneda successfulrealestatebrokerage,Melissa’sinterestinthe industrywassparkedatayoungage.Herimpressive journeycommencedwithobtainingherfirstrealestate licensein2008,anotableachievementattheageof19,all whilediligentlyworkingatareputablerealestatefirm. Throughoutthisperiod,shenotonlyrefinedherskillsbut alsopursuedhighereducation,ultimatelyearninga distinguishedbachelor’sdegreeinMarketingand Advertisingin2009.
Evenasshecontinuedherstudies,earningherMaster’sin Barcelona,Spainin2010,Melissa'sdedicationtothereal estatedomainremainedresolute,atraitthatwoulddefine hercareer.FollowingherreturntotheUnitedStatesin 2014,shefurtherbroadenedherhorizonsbyacquiringa Floridarealestatelicense.Thispivotalmoveenabledherto seamlesslyintegrateherexpertisewithherroleata specializedrealestateadvertisingagency,apartnershipthat continuestothrivenowadays.Melissa’ssteadfast commitment,coupledwithherextensiveknowledge, attentiontodetail,andentrepreneurialdrive,positionsher asanexceptionalleaderintherealestaterealm.Her guidancepropelsElevatedPropertiesInternationaltoward unparalleledsuccesswhilealsoinspiringotherswithinthe industry.
NurturingClientRelationshipsandFosteringGrowth
InhercapacityasCEO,Melissaadoptsaprofoundlyhandsonapproach,immersingherselfineveryaspectofthe
business.Hermeticulousattentiontodetailandunyielding commitmenttoachievingresultsshapehercore responsibilities,whichcenteraroundaligningherclient’s needswiththecompany’smission.
Melissa’sastutecomprehensionofherclients’aspirations empowershertoformulatecomprehensivegrowthand marketingplansthatnotonlyleadtotherealizationoftheir immediateobjectivesbutalsofostersustainedsuccess.By closelyheedingherclients’realisticendtargets,shedevises strategiesthatnotonlyfacilitateachievementbutalsolay thegroundworkforcontinuousexpansion,ensuringthatthe journeyextendsbeyondasolitaryaccomplishment.
Clientfeedbackholdsapivotalroleintheoperationsof ElevatedPropertiesInternational,servingasevidenceof Melissa’scommitmenttoclientcontentment.Her responsivenesstothepreferencesanddesiresofguests residinginthepropertiesunderscoresherdedicationto enrichingtheirexperiences.Thisapproachextendsbeyond accommodationstoencompasscollaborationswithlocal businesses,resultinginanimmersiveandunforgettable vacation.Melissa’sproactivecooperationwithlocal enterprisesnotonlyelevatesguests'staysbutalsobolsters thelocaleconomybysupportingsmallbusinessproprietors.
TransformingPropertiesintoProfitableVacation Destinations
ElevatedPropertiesInternationalsuccessfullyemergedin therealestatearenain2020,adifficulttimeformost businessesandtheeconomy,makingapotentimpactby initiallyoverseeinginternationalproperties.Asignificant
leapoccurredin2023,whenthe companybroadeneditsportfolioto includelocationswithintheUS, accomplishinganimpressivelaunchin ameretwoweeks.Thiscomprehensive endeavorencompassedacquiring, interiordesigning,staging, photography,websitedevelopment, integrationwithsocialmedia, branding,curatedamenities, comprehensivemarketingstrategies andfocusedpaidadvertising initiatives.Theimpressiveoutcomes wereapparentfromtheoutset,withthe companysecuringitsinitialbookingin underthreehoursafterthelaunch.
AtthecoreofElevatedProperties International’sachievementslieits distinctapproachtoproperty managementandvacationrentals.The companyservesasanadaptable collaborator,extendingproperty ownersanarrayofservicestailoredto theirpreferredlevelofinvolvement. Forthosedesiringahands-off approach,ElevatedProperties Internationaltakesonnumerous responsibilities,orchestratingthe transitionofpropertiesintovacation rentals.Thisintricateprocessentails precisemeasurements,strategic furniturechoices,meticulousinterior design,thecreationofalluringlistings, thedevelopmentofmemorable brandingandlogos,andthecaptureof professional-gradephotographs. Furthermore,thecompanyactively manageslistingsonbookingplatforms, budgetmanagement,handlesguest interactions,supervisesreviews, coordinatescleaningteams,oversees replenishmentofinventory,andeven managessocialmediaplatformsand paiddigitaladvertisingcampaigns.
ElevatedPropertiesInternational doesn'tmerelyengageinproperty management;itfunctionsasa comprehensivesolutionproviderthat
Listen to your market audiences’ needs and make changes accordingly “
empowerspropertyownerstotapintothefullpotentialof theirinvestments.Bypresentingtailoredservicesaligned witheachowner’spreferencesanddegreeofinvolvement, thecompanyconvertspropertiesintoprofitableand noteworthyvacationdestinations.Therapidtriumphofthe company,evidentthroughswiftbookingsandpositiveguest experiences,underscoresElevatedPropertiesInternational’s prowessintherealmsofrealestateandhospitality management.
ElevatingVacationExperiencesinTwoDistinctRealms
Melissa’scurrentfocuswithElevatedProperties Internationalinvolvesstrategicallytargetingtwodistinctyet captivatingmarkets.Thefirstdomainisfirmlysituated withintheUnitedStates,currentlycenteredaroundthe picturesqueandvibrantMorrison,Colorado.Thisdesired areaservesasagatewaytoanarrayofexperiences, providingproximitytotherenownedRedRocks Amphitheatreforconcertsandfacilitatingswiftaccessto theenchantingmountaintownsthatdefineColorado’s landscape.Withitscloseproximitytoiconicdestinations likeVail,Georgetown,IdahoSprings,andAspen,Elevated PropertiesInternationalestablishesitselfasaprimeoption forindividualsseekinganimmersiveColoradomountain experienceduringanyseason.
Thecompany’ssecondmarketextendsbeyondborders, encompassingacollectionofinternationalvacation propertiesnestledinthecaptivatingambianceofAnton Valley,Panama.ThisexpansionillustratesMelissa’s forward-thinkingapproach,broadeningElevatedProperties International’sofferingstoaglobalclientele.Bycateringto theallureoftheColoradoRockiesandtheexoticcharmof AntonValley,Panama,Melissa’sstrategictargeting underscoreshercapacitytocuratedistinctive,engaging vacationexperiencesthatspancontinentsandembrace diverselandscapes.
Client-CentricExcellence:CraftingPersonalizedand MemorableExperiences
Melissa’sclient-centricapproachatElevatedProperties Internationalhassolidifiedthecompany’sreputation, evidentinanimpressive4.9/5satisfactionratingfrom delightedguests.Bytreatingeachguestlikefamily,the companygoesbeyondtheordinarytoensuretheirdistinct needsaremet.Thisattentivenessisunderscoredby recognizingthatfamilyrequirementsdifferfromthoseofa groupoffriendsattendingaconcert,promptinga personalizedmethodofcraftingmemorableexperiences.
ThecoreofMelissa’sstrategycentersoncustomization andswiftresponsiveness.Withakeenawarenessof diverseguestneeds,thecompanymeticulouslytailorseach guest’sexperience.Quickandefficientresponsesto questionsandrequestsenhancethesenseofcareand attention,fosteringanenvironmentofflourishingguest satisfaction.
Melissa’scommitmenttofeedbackunderscoresher unwaveringdedicationtoevolutionandenhancement. Activelyseekingguestinput,thecompanyconsistently refinesitsofferingsandexploresnewavenues.This adaptableapproachismirroredinanexpandingarrayof servicesthatcorrespondwithseasonaldynamicsandthe purposeoftravel.Fromarrangingshuttletransfersto concertvenuesandorganizingmealservicesto incorporatinglocaltours,Melissaisdedicatedtoenriching eachguest’sjourney.
Inanefforttofurtherelevateclientsatisfaction,Melissa envisionsenhancingtheexperiencethroughdynamiconsiteamenities.Forexample,thecompanyaimstoenhance winterstayswithinvitinghottubsandfirepits,while summervisitswillincludeenticingoutdoorwaterfeatures, andsummeryardgames.Thisinnovativeapproachensures thatreturningguestscananticipatearevitalizedexperience everytimetheychooseElevatedPropertiesInternational.
FosteringCollaborativeProblem-Solving
Melissa’sleadershipphilosophythrivesoncultivatinga teamculturecenteredaroundtheparamountimportanceof theclientexperience.Herapproachextendsbeyond conventionaldefinitionsofsuccess,emphasizingongoing learning,growth,andthepursuitofinnovativesolutions ratherthanthepursuitofbeing“right.”Underher guidance,theteamembracesaresilientmindsetwhere failureisnotdiscouragedbutregardedasasteppingstone towardimprovementandsuccess.Theemphasisliesin recognizingthatattemptinganewandevolvingholds greatervaluethangivingup.
Melissa’scapabilitytomotivateherteamisfueledbyher convictioninthepotentialofcollaborationandproblemsolving.Sheurgesherteammemberstoperceive challengesnotasbarriers,butasprospectstoventureinto unchartedterritoriesandproposeinventivesolutions.This innateproblem-solvingdispositionthatpermeatestheteam empowersthemtoinnovateandadjust,fosteringaculture ofdynamicprogress.
Toensureafavorableandinclusiveworkplace,Melissa prioritizesopencommunicationandrespectsthediverse backgroundsandlanguagesherteammemberscontribute. Fluentinfivelanguagesherself,sheacknowledgesthe strengthofmultilingualismandencouragesanenvironment thatcelebratesvariedlinguisticproficiencies.Her commitmenttowork-lifebalanceunderscoresherregard forherteam’spersonallives,reinforcingthenotionthat theirtimeisgenuinelyvalued.
Structuredplansandpreciseobjectivessteertheteam’s endeavors,withclearlydefinedgoalsestablishedona weekly,monthly,andquarterlybasis.Thismethodical approachtoplanningandexecutionpropelstheteam towardcollectiveaccomplishmentwhilenurturingasense ofownershipandresponsibility
Melissa’sGuidingPrinciplesforSuccessinRealEstate Leadership
Melissa’sinvaluableadvicetoaspiringleadersenteringthe realestateindustryencapsulatesbothstrategicwisdomand practicalinsights.Herguidanceemphasizestheimportance ofthoroughresearchandmeticulousplanning,advocating foracomprehensiveunderstandingofallpossibilitiesand potentialscenarios.Bycreatingasolidplanandconsidering everyaspect,aspiringleaderscanlaythefoundationfora successfulventure.
Melissa’scounseltotaketheleaponlywhenarmedwitha well-informedandrobustplanhighlightsthesignificanceof preparation.Sherecognizesthatunforeseenchallengesare unavoidable,butthroughdiligentpreparationbeforehand, entrepreneurscannavigatethesechallengesmore effectively.
AutomatizationemergesasacornerstoneofMelissa’s advice,reflectinghercommitmenttooptimizingefficiency Sheunderscoresthevalueofinvestinginsoftwareandtools thatstreamlineprocessesandalleviatetheburdenofmanual tasks.Melissa’semphasisontheprudentuseoftimealigns withherbeliefthattimeisapreciousresourceandthat leveragingavailabletoolscanliberatevaluablehoursfor morestrategicendeavors.
Furthermore,Melissa’scandidrecognitionoftheindustry’s demands—unpredictablehours,demandingwork,and unforeseenissues—atteststoherpragmaticapproach.Yet shealsoemphasizestheimmensesatisfactionderivedfrom creatingmeaningfulexperiencesandmemoriesforclients,a sentimentthatfarsurpassesthechallengesfaced.
VisionaryGrowthandDiversification
MelissaenvisionsadynamicfutureforElevatedProperties International,markedbyrobustgrowth,adaptability,and strategicexpansion.Acknowledgingtheongoingevolution oftherealestatesector,sheembracesshiftsdrivenby factorslikesocialmediaandanticipatesfurthergrowthand innovationonthehorizon.
OneofMelissa’scentralaimsistobroadenthecompany’s reachandinfluencebyowningandoperatingadiverse arrayofproperties.Herambitiousgoalofowning10 propertiescoupledwiththemanagementof10–15privately ownedpropertiesunderscoresherdedicationto comprehensiveexpansion.Throughstrategicdiversification oftheportfolio,sheseekstotapintodifferentmarkets, regions,andtypesofaccommodations,therebyamplifying cross-marketingopportunitiesandnurturingtheloyaltyof returningcustomers.
TheglobalscopeofMelissa’saspirationsisevidentinher aimtoestablishapresenceinEuropeinthenext12months. Thisexpansionalignswithhervisionofprovidingguests withavarietyofexperiences,encompassingeverything frommountaincabinstobeachretreatstoquaintEuropean cottages,thuscateringtodiversepreferencesandtravel intentions,creatingaloyaltyprogramforreturningguests whowishtovisitallpropertiesatexclusivediscounted rates.
Melissa’sforward-lookingperspectiveontherealestate industryunderscoresherbeliefinitsongoingevolution. Withthecontinuedascentofsocialmediaandtechnological progress,sheenvisionsanindustryreadytoembrace innovationevenmoreenthusiastically.
Do the research. Map out your entire plan and create a strategy for any unforeseen scenarios that may come up. Then, jump in with both feet. It will be worth it!
HOW TO TALK ANYONE TO
“You’ll not only break the ice, you’ll melt it away with your new skills.” –LarryKing.Inaworldbuzzingwithsocial interactionsreducedtomeretextonscreensandemojis,the profoundimpactofagenuineface-to-faceconversation oftenfeelslikealong-losttreasure.Butwhatiftherewerea guidethatcouldrekindletheflamesofmeaningful communication,offeringacompendiumoftechniquesto notjustconverse,buttodeeplyconnect?LeilLowndes’ book,“HowtoTalktoanyone:92LittleTricksforBig SuccessinRelationships,”appearstoholdthekeytothis revitalization.
AbouttheBookandAuthor
Diveintothecaptivatingguide,“HowtoTalktoAnyone: 92LittleTricksforBigSuccessinRelationships,”authored byrenownedcommunicationexpertLeilLowndes.Witha prolificcareerspanningwriting,speaking,andcoaching, Lowndesbringsawealthofexperiencetothetable.Unveil themysteriesofeffectivecommunicationthroughpractical strategiesandpsychologicalinsightsshehascarefully curatedovertheyears.Whetheryou’reanintrovertrefining yourconversationalfinesseoranextrovertshapingyour communicationstyle,thisbookequipsyouwithactionable adviceformemorableinteractions,makingitan indispensabletoolforpersonalandprofessionalgrowth.
Thisbookisdividedintosectionsmentionedbelow:
● 9waystomakeadynamitefirstimpression
● 14waystomastersmalltalk,"bigtalk,"andbody language
● 14waystowalkandtalklikeaVIPorcelebrity
● 6waystosoundlikeaninsiderinanycrowd
● 7waystoestablishdeepsubliminalrapportwith anyone
● 9waystofeedsomeone’sego(andknowwhen NOTto!)
● 11waystomakeyourphoneapowerful communicationstool
● 15waystoworkapartylikeapoliticianworksa room
● 7waystotalkwithtigersandnotgeteatenalive
Joinusonajourneytouncoverthesecretswithinitspages –secretswiththepowertotransformhowweconnectina worldhungryforauthenticcommunication.
1. 9WaystoMakeaDynamiteFirst
Impression
Craftinglastingpositivefirstimpressionshingesonkey strategiesthatprofoundlyshapeinterpersonaldynamics. Amongthese,the“FloodingSmile”standsout—agenuine, welcomingexpressionthatgoesbeyondfleetingsmiles. “StickyEyes,”orprolongedeyecontact,conveysdeep interestandunderstanding.Physicaltouch,likearespectful handshake,forgesimmediatewarmththrough“ThePower ofTouch.”
Psychologicalmirroring—subtlymimickingbodylanguage andspeechpatterns—createscomfort.“TheKiller Compliment,”asincere,specificpraise,boostsself-esteem. Activelistening,withfocusedattentionandthoughtful questions,showsgenuinecuriosity.Maintainingpositivity andhighlightingstrengthsfostersharmony,whilenonverbalcuesenhanceyourroleasaconfident conversationalist.Approachinginteractionsjoyfullyand embracingfungeneratesinfectiouspositivity,leadingto sharedenjoyment.
Masteringthesetechniquesempowersimpactfulinitial impressions,pavingthewayforlastingrelationshipsbuilt onrespectandauthenticity
2. 14WaystoMasterSmallTalk,“BigTalk,”and BodyLanguage
Masteringeffectivesmalltalkinvolveskeyprinciples. Activelisteningisparamount;peoplelovediscussing themselves,sogenuinequestionsandinterestsarecrucial. Maintainpositivitywithsmiles,eyecontact,and enthusiasmforenjoyableinteractions.Findingcommon ground,whetherinbackgroundsorhobbies,buildsrapport. Authenticitymatters—beingtruetoyourselfprevents insincerity.
Respectisvital,especiallywhenopinionsdiffer Avoid interruptionsorbelittling.Ifconversationstalls,seek assistance;othersmightredirect.Humorlightensthemood, butavoidsoffense.Skillfulstorytellingaddsinterest,if relevant.
Nonverbalcuesmatter.Properposture,eyecontact,anda smilehelp.Whilesharingisimportant,don’tmonopolize. Exploretheotherperson’sexperiences.Endpositivelyby
expressinggratitude.Followingtheseguidelines enhancessmalltalkskillsandstrengthens connections.
3.
14WaystoWalkandTalkLikeaVIPor Celebrity
VIPsandcelebritiesemanateacaptivatingaura definedbyself-assuranceandgenuineness.Their poiseddemeanorismarkedbypurposefulpoise, directeyecontact,andareadysmilethatexudes approachability
Conversationswiththemarecharacterizedbyopen, friendlygesturesandattentivelistening,showcasing theirauthenticengagement.Theyexudeinfectious passionfortheirpursuitsandpersonallives, underpinnedbyapositiveperspectiveandboundless enthusiasm.Thisauthenticityextendstotheirattire, strikingabalancebetweenstyleandappropriateness, reflectingtheirkeeneyefordetail.Theircommitment towell-beingshinesthroughself-careroutines encompassingnutrition,exercise,andamplesleep.
Notably,theirexceptionalcommunicationskills, characterizedbyclarityandreceptivity,setthem apart.Theyarticulatethoughtswiththoughtfulness andcomprehendothersadeptly,solidifyingtheirrolemodelstatus.VIPsandcelebritiesilluminatethepath toexudingconfidence,authenticity,optimism,and polishedcommunication,establishingaremarkable standardforpoisedandimpactfulinteractions.
4. 6WaystoSoundLikeanInsider
inAny Crowd
Toeffectivelyconnectwithothers,it’scrucialto integrateinsiderjargonintoyourconversations, displayingaclearunderstandingoftheirworldand fosteringrelatability.Keepabreastofcurrentevents, asdiscussingthelatestnewsdemonstratesyour engagementwiththeworldandcontributesto meaningfuldialogues.Capitalizeonpeople’s inclinationtotalkaboutthemselvesbyasking questionsthatdelveintotheirinterestsand experiences,revealingyourgenuineinterestin learningmoreaboutthem.
Injectinghumorintoconversationscanserveasa powerfultoolforbuildingrapport,thoughit’s importanttostrikeabalancesoasnottoappear
overlyforced.Apositiveandupbeatdemeanorismagnetic, makingothersmoreinclinedtoengagewithyou.By focusingonthepositiveaspectsoflifeandsidestepping complaintsorgossip,you’llnaturallyattractpeople.
Ultimately,authenticityreignssupreme.Attemptingtobe someoneyou’renotiseasilydetectable,sostayingtrueto yourselfisparamount.Embracethesestrategiestoensure youleaveapositiveandlastingimpressiononthoseyou encounter
5.
7WaystoEstablishDeepSubliminalRapport withAnyone
Masteringtheartofbuildingrapportandforgingstrong connectionsencompassesseveralpivotaltechniques.One suchtechniqueismirroring–thepracticeofimitating anotherindividual’sbodylanguageandexpressions, fosteringasenseofeaseandrapport.Likewise, synchronizingbreathingpatternsgeneratesaprofound feelingofconnectionandbolstersinterpersonalties. Employingidenticalwordsandphrasesastheotherperson furthersolidifiesmutualunderstandingandshared encounters.
Unearthingcommongroundthroughsharedinterestsor experiencesservestocementtheseconnectionsevenmore deeply.Skillfullyincorporatingaperson’snameshowcases activelisteningandgenuinecuriosity.Insuitablecultural contexts,physicaltouchcanalsointensifytheseconnections. Ultimately,aheartfeltsmiletranscendslinguisticbarriers, radiatingwarmthandreliability.Byadroitlyapplyingthese techniques,individualscanelevatetheirinteractions,giving risetorelationshipsimbuedwithsignificance.
6. 9WaystoFeedSomeone’sEgo(AndKnow WhenNotTo!)
Toenhanceself-esteemandcultivatepositiveconnections, severaleffectivestrategiescomeintoplay.Offeringgenuine, specificcomplimentscansignificantlybolsterfeelingsof valueandrecognition.Showingsincereinterestintheir accomplishmentsbyinquiringabouttheirpassionsand achievementsdemonstratesadmirationfortheirendeavors. Grantingleadershiproles,seekingtheirinputoncrucial matters,orprovidingundividedattentioncanmakethemfeel trulysignificant.
Utilizingtheirnameduringconversationsunderscoresyour attentivenessandunderscorestheirimportance.Subtly mirroringtheirbodylanguageenhancesthesenseof
connection.Alight,respectfultouchonthearmor shouldercommunicatesaffectionwithout oversteppingboundaries.Injectinghumorinto interactionsfostersarelaxedatmosphereand elevatestheirmood.
Attentivelisteningandrespectfortheirviewpoint arepivotalinreinforcingtheirself-worth.Active participationindiscussionsshowcasesyour authenticcuriosity.Lastly,freelyexpressingpraise andgratitudewhenwarrantednurturesconfidence andfortifiespositiveemotions.Integratingthese techniqueseffectivelycontributestobolstering someone’sself-esteemandoverallwell-being.
7. 11WaystoMakeYourPhonea PowerfulCommunicationsTool
Intoday’sfast-pacedworld,yoursmartphoneisa vitaltoolforeffectivecommunicationand meaningfulconnections.Itsimplifiesarranging meetingswithconcisemessagesproposingtopics, times,andlocations,expeditingresponses,and allowingmessagerefinement.Afterproductive meetings,expressgratitudethroughshorttextsor emails,reinforcingtakeawaysandshowing appreciation.Stayeffortlesslyconnectedby updatingviatext,email,orsocialmedia,keeping othersinformed,andnurturingfutureinteractions.
Yourphoneaidspreparationtoo,asquickonline searchesprovideconversationmaterialbefore meetingnewpeople.Duringdiscussions,it’sa reliablenote-takingtool,capturingkeypoints. Recordingaudioduringpresentationshonesskills, whilefilmingyourselfenhancesnonverbal communication.However,remembertotake breaksforbalance.Setcommunicationboundaries foruninterruptedfocus.Yourphonecanalsomake apositiveimpactbystrengtheningbonds, volunteering,oraidingcharitablecauses, extendingfulfillmentbeyondyourself.Inthis dynamiclandscape,yoursmartphoneisabridgeto efficiency,connection,andpersonalgrowth.
8. 15WaystoWorkaPartyLikea PoliticianWorksaRoom
Navigatingsocialsituationsandbuilding connectionsatpartiesrequireseffectivestrategies. Assessroomdynamicsuponarrivaltoidentify
partnersandavoidawkwardness.Proactivelyintroduce yourselftointerestingindividualsforengagingdiscussions. Nonverbalcueslikeopenbodylanguagecommunicate approachability Activelisteningandrememberingdetails demonstrategenuineinterest.Carryingbusinesscards simplifiescontactexchange,maintainingeyecontactenhances engagement.Preparationiskey,consideringtheguestlist, goals,andconnections.
Choosingbetweenminglingandeatingdependsonpriorities. Politelyexcuseyourselffromunenjoyableconversationsfor betterinteractions.Skillfulintroductionshighlightingshared interestsencourageconnections.Engagingconversationsrely onopen-endedquestions,curiosity,andhumor.Post-party, follow-upsexpressappreciationandinterest.Handling awkwardmomentsgracefullyinvolvesconfidentresponses. Implementthesestrategiestoexcelsocially,optimizeparty experiences,andfosterconnections.
9. 7WaystoTalkWithTigersandNotGetEaten Alive
Whendealingwithdifficultpeople,it’shelpfultoadoptseveral strategiestomaintainpositiveinteraction.First,mimictheir bodylanguageandtoneofvoicetoestablishrapportandcreate acomfortableatmosphere.Additionally,agreeingwiththeir points,evenifyoudon’tfullyagree,demonstratesattentive listeningandrespectfortheirperspective.Avoidingarguments iscrucial,astheycanescalatetensions;instead,seekcommon groundtofosterunderstanding.Whilepolitenessandrespect shouldbemaintainedregardlessoftheirbehavior,it’s importantnottoengageinconfrontationaleyecontactthat couldprovokeachallenge.
Understandingthathurtfulcommentsfromdifficultindividuals arenotpersonalandrefrainingfromtakingoffensecanhelpin maintainingemotionalcomposure.However,ifaconversation becomesoverlyhostileorunsafe,it’sacceptabletowithdraw fromthesituationtoensurepersonalsafety.Bycombining thesestrategies,individualscannavigateinteractionswith difficultpeopleeffectivelyandmaintainabalancedapproachto communication.
Intheclosingchaptersofthisamazingbook,wegraspthetools towieldconversationasanart.Thisbookunderscoresthat communicationisthevitalthreadconnectinghumanity.With theseinsights,weadvancetowardmasteringsociallandscapes, leavingmeaningfulimprints.Letthiswisdompropelyouintoa realmwhereeveryinteractionisachancetoradiate.Embrace thelanguageofconnection,andwitnessitstransformative abilitytocaptivate,inspire,andforgeenduringbonds.
Vlada Liashchenko
REDEFINING MODERN FRANCHISE LEADERSHIP WITH DILIGENCE AND PERSEVERANCE
Severalcharacteristicsdefinea
successfulleader Whilesomeof thesequalitiesarecontextdependent,oneofthemostimportant andirreplaceablefactorsishardwork. Statingherviewsonmodern leadershiptraits,VladaLiaschenko (ManagingPartnerofCNA InternationalIT)says, “I want to develop myself in terms of hard skills and practice is the only key to success.”
VladacompletedhereducationatTaras ShevchenkoUniversityfromthe facultyofUkrainianandEnglish languages.Inadditiontohercore linguisticcourses,Vladaalsotook classesinpsychologyandexploredand triedherhandinavarietyof professionalfieldsincludinglogistics, administration,andtranslation. However,realizingthathertrue passionwasconnectingpeoplewith companies,shestartedworkingwitha US-basedproductcompanyasanIT recruiter Aftergainingexperiencein6 differentorganizations,Vladarealized theneedforstability,agloballyrecognizedname,andtheopportunity tomakeanimpact.Thisledhertojoin CNAInternationalITasaRecruitment Lead,whereshesucceededandwas laterpromotedtoManagingPartner
InarecentconversationwithMirror Review,Vladasharedherviewson leadershipalongwiththeassociated rolesandresponsibilities,andthe challengingjourneyofestablishment ofthecompany
Belowaresomeexcerptsfromour scintillatingconversation.
In your opinion, how have the latest trends influenced the Franchise industry?
Ibelievethattrendsfromother industriesinfluencethelatesttrends withinthefranchise.Thesetrends includebuildingtrustfullong-term relationshipswithpartners,whatsocial initiativesandprojectstheysupport, howtocommunicatedeclaredvalues intheiractivity,andhowactionsand viewsofthecompanycorrespondto SustainableDevelopmentGoals. Anothertrendiscustomercentricity, wherethebusinessfocusesonfulfilling itscustomer’sneeds.
Thesetrendshavehelpedthefranchise industrytosearchforreliablepartners fordifferentdomains.Sincenew partnersbecomerepresentativeofyour brand,itisimportantthattheyshould complywithbusinesspurposesand
sharethesamesocialvision.This enablestheformationofnetworkswith congruentvaluesandpractices.
When was CNA International IT Established? What are the various services and solutions offered by the company?
CNAInternationalwasestablishedin 1993asaBritishfranchisewithits headofficeinBirmingham,UK.Later, in2014,westartedtheCNA InternationalIT Asarecruitment agency,wemainlydealwithIT recruitmentforC-levelexecutivesand seniorspecialists.Also,weoffera marketanalyticalproductcalled ‘SalarySurvey’thatincludessalary chartsforspecialistsfromthe UkrainianITsegment,markettrends andforecasts,expertcommentsfrom ourpartners,andHRGeneralistsfrom productcompanies.
Thecompanyprovideson-demand consultingservicesrangingfrom operationoftherecruitmentagency, variouskindsofHRconsulting, financialconsultinginIT,andseveral otherservices.Otherspecialized servicesweofferincludeR&D services,EmployerBrandingServices, Payroll,andCross-CultureProgram.
Being at the helm of the company, how would you define your primary roles and responsibilities?
Myprimaryresponsibilitiesinvolve negotiatingwiththeclients(potential aswellasexisting),initiatingand providinglearninganddevelopment programsformyteams,and recruitingexecutivesatC-leveland seniorpositions.Ifurtherassistmy teaminsolvingcriticalnon-standard tasks.
How do you ensure motivation and productivity at the workplace? Also, how do you respond to criticism and disagreements?
Ialwayssaythatproductivitycan onlybeachievedalongsideoptimum work-lifebalanceandgood physical/mentalhealth.Toensure highproductivityduringwork,I usuallysuggestretrospectionofdayto-daytasks,preparingato-do-list, andkeepingbuffertimefor unpredictedeventslikemeetings, calls,etc.However,sinceevery individualisdifferent,thereisno one-size-fits-allmethodtoensure productivityandmotivation.Asfor criticism,it’soneofthebestwaysto developsoftskillsandpractice stayingcalmunderany circumstances.
As a Franchise leader, what essential characteristics are required to survive in the modern industrial environment?
Thereareafewcaseswherewecan takeadvicefromtheheadoffice includingissuessuchasoutstanding situations,businessdifficulties,and non-standardoperationalissues. However,themostessentialfactorto
thriveinthemodernindustrial environmentistounderstandthe latestmarkettrends.Thisenables anycompanytoproviderelevant informationtoyourpartnersand clientsabouttheongoingsituation.
Forexample,sincetheVUCA contextwasreplacedbyBANI (brittle-anxious-nonlinearincomprehensible),peopleare constantlysearchingformore reliableinformation.Anothermost importantandcriticalfactoristo constantlykeepintouchwithour network(franchisees,partners, clients,andbusinessfields)togain valuableinsights.
According to you, what roles are played by franchisors and franchisees in the success of a franchise company? Also, what essential qualities should an ideal franchising candidate possess?
Bothfranchisorsandfranchiseesare theplayersonthesameteamand contributeequallytothecompany’s success.Thefranchisorsarethe oneswhobuildthefoundation,and thefranchiseeshelpthemtogrow.It isteamworkandequaleffortsof everymemberthathelpsthe companygrowandachievesuccess. Ifeelthatanidealcandidateshould possessqualitiesincluding willingnesstoworkmore,openness togatherinformationfromus, opennesstochallenges,andhavea creativemindsetwherehe/sheis capableoffindingsolutionsin uncertainandunexpected circumstances.Also,buyinga franchisemeansyouhaveanetwork ofthosewhosupportyouwiththeir many-year-expertiseandlegal consultationsifrequired.
What upcoming services and solutions we can anticipate from CNA International IT?
Todiversifyourbusiness,we enhancedourservicesapartfromour coreservicesthatincludeIT recruitmentandexecutivesearch.In additiontothis,weintroduced serviceslikeHRConsultingand EmployerBranding.Wealsohave “CONNECTINGPEOPLEWITH COMPANIESJUSTFEELSRIGHT TOME,LIKEGOODKARMA”. Westartedconductingmarket
researchprojectsincludingSalary Survey,Companybenefitsresearch,and specificnicheresearch.Currently,weare workingonimplementinganewversion ofthesurveythatwillsoonbe introducedinthemarket.Also,weoffer severalcompetitiveadvantagesto franchiseesthatincludeconstant communicationbytheCNA InternationalITteam,amplesupportand educationalservices,assistancein executivesearchandirrational recruitmentcases,andexpertguidance.
“CONNECTING PEOPLEWITH COMPANIES JUSTFEELS RIGHTTOME, LIKEGOOD KARMA.”
“
Focus. Dream specific dreams. Aim small, miss small. Fail quickly and often. Invest in people, not ideas. Love what you do and who you do it with.
Steve Simons CEO & Founder Restyn -
STEVE SIMONS
Passing on the Legacy of Persistence with Prudent Leadership
Innovationanddeterminationarethetwodrivingforcesofthe softwaredevelopmentindustry.Leadersfromvariousindustries areharnessingsoftwareandtechnologytodriveevolution, disruption,productivity,andprofitabilityoftheirenterprises. Moreover,properlyalignedtechnologyempowerspeoplewiththe informationandrequiredprocessestosucceedinservingcustomers, whilecreatingacompetitiveadvantageinthemarketplace.
Thepandemichaspushedmanycompaniestotheedge.Ithas introducedincrediblestresstooperatingmargins,product development,andservicedeliveryprogramsforteamsacrossawide rangeofindustries.So,withtheseadditionalstressespressingin, robusttechnologyleadershipisrisingasakeydistinguishingfactor betweensuccessandfailure.
Withagilityandpersistence,SteveSimons(CEOandFounder)has beenpivotingRestyntomeetthesechallenges.Stevehasa reputationforvisionarytechnicalleadership,businessstrategy,and changemanagementbecauseofhisreal-worldexperiencedriving top-lineandbottom-lineresultsforthecompaniesheserves.
PriortolaunchingRestyn,Stevewasakeyexecutiveanchoringa residentialsolarinstallertogreatheightsasitgrewfrombeinga localbrandtohavingnationalreachandhitting#2ontheINC500 beforebeingsuccessfullyacquiredbythelargestenergyretailerin theU.S. Hehasservedonboardsandadvisoryboardsforvarious companiesandnon-profitsacrossarangeoftechnology,education, andmanufacturingstart-ups.AndisaChristianevangelistwhocofoundedCreationSpringsChurchalongwithhiswife.
ArrayofCustomer-CentricApproaches
In2016,StevelaunchedRestynwithasinglecustomer.Sinceits establishment,thecompanyhasexpandedbyprovidingtruly strategicITforsmallandmid-size,high-growthenterprises.Instead
oftechnologyassomesortofabstractsilverbullet, Restynconsiderspeopleastheultimatesolutionthatitis delivering.Abidingbythisphilosophy,thecompany focusesonprovidinganunfaircompetitiveadvantagefor itscustomersinthemarketplacebyempoweringtheir peoplewithwell-alignedtechnologyplatforms.
Inaworldofprojectconsultantsandmanagedservice providers,Restynstandsoutasatruefull-stackIT providerforitscustomers,bringingafullrangeof servicesincludingstrategicvision,projectleadership, softwaredevelopment/implementation,andinfrastructure supporttoallowRestyn'scustomerstofocusonwhat theydobest—servingtheirowncustomers.
AVisionaryLeader
Beingatthehelmofthecompany,Stevefocuseson buildingupleaders,cherishingRestyn'svisionand culture,andempoweringotherstofulfiltheirindividual missions.Moreover,healsobelievesleadershipis achievedbydefiningandmeasuringsuccess:
“We enjoy playing a pivotal role in helping our clients grow and succeed at both the top line and the bottom line, by driving grassroots innovation and healthy culture and technology at every level of the organizations we serve.”
AccordingtoSteve,persistence,intelligence,andvision arekeytosucceedingintheITspace.Theabilityto mastertheevolvinglandscapeoftechnologywhilealso developingfullcommandofthebusinessprocesses servedbythosetechnologiesisthe“secretsauce”that hasledtoRestyn'ssuccess.Stevebelievesthatitisnot enoughtounderstandwhataplatformcando,onemust alsobeabletocreateeffectivealignmentbetweenpeople andtechnologyforaplatformtosucceed.
StrategizingStrengthsduringCrisis
Theglobalpandemicposedseverechallengestoevery aspectofbusinesseslargeandsmall.Fromraising cybersecurityconcernstoforcinginnovationin reasonableaccommodationsforwork-from-home supportinaccordancewiththecircumstances,toreinventingapproachestoleadgeneration,networking,and businessdevelopment,everyaspectofthebusinesswas impactedbyforcesthatwerefarbeyondleaders' immediatecontrol.
Restyn'sapproachtoovercomingthesechallengeswasto
risetotheoccasionbyidentifyinganddefeatingevery obstacletocontinuedeliveringhighquality,white-glove experiencefortheircustomers.
StayingAheadofTrends
Restyn'supcomingproject—currentlyunder development—concernsanext-generationsolutionfor social/personalnetworking,privacy,anddata management.InaworlddominatedbyBigTech,the companybelievesthatthereisabetterapproachto buildingrelationships,meaning,mission,andpurpose togetheraspeopleandasacivilization.Theybelievethis willbeachievedbybringingpeopletogethertogrow moreintentionalcommunity,connection,intimacy,and successbasedonthecorevaluesoffreemarkets,free people,androbustindividualhumanrights.
PassingontheLegacy
Stevebelievesthatsoftwaredevelopmentisoneofthe mostchallengingtasksanyonecanpursue,evengoingso farastosuggestthatcollegesanduniversitiesshould rename'ComputerScience'coursesto'ComputerArts'. Asheputsit,“There is such a big difference between what I would describe as “paint-by-numbers” solutions versus the far more effective “DaVinci” solutions that truly disrupt the market and change people's lives for the better.”
Forabettergrasponleadership,Steverecommends readingawiderangeofbooksandinvestinginlifelong learning.Someofhisfavoritebooksinclude The Art of War bySunTzu, Switch byDanandChipHeath,and Pitch Anything byOrenKlaff, amongothers.But,most importantly,SteveheavilyrecommendsdiggingintoThe Bible—specificallytheNewTestamentparablesofJesus Christ.StevebelievesthatJesussharedsomeofthebest management,leadership,andinvestmentadvice available. Seeingbusinessasaministry,leadershipasa servant,andkeepingGodfirstplacearecorevaluesthat Steveusestobuildhisbusinessandhelphiscustomers succeed.
Tobeasuccessfulleader,Steverecommendsconsistent focusandinvestinginpeople,ratherthanideas.Healso suggeststhatoneshouldvaluecharacteroverknowledge, ashesays,“Knowledge can be trained and educated, but character in need of change requires conversion, which poses a serious binary risk to your business.”
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THE USA LEADERS IS AN ILLUMINATING DIGITAL PLATFORM THAT DRIVES THE CONVERSATION ABOUT THE DISTINGUISHED AMERICAN LEADERS DISRUPTING TECHNOLOGY WITH AN UNPARALLELED APPROACH.