Speaking Archives - Catherine Johns

Business Communication, Speaking, Writing

Put the Power of Three to Work for You

When was the last time you called to touch base with a friend for no reason at all? Or you sent a text with no mission in mind other than to let someone know you were thinking of them? Or you shot off a quick email, just to say hi? You might guess those random contacts would be unwelcome interruptions in their busy day. Who has time to respond to a quick hello, a remark about the weather, or a waving emoji? Turns out if that’s your assumption, you’re mistaken. (And I was right there with you.)

Catherine Johns | Aug 3, 2022

Business Communication, Communication, Speaking

How Big is Your Voice?

As important as our words are, our voices also send a message, quite apart from the language we use in any given situation. It’s worth considering what that message might be and whether it serves us well. The author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges says when we feel powerful our voices grow. “When we feel powerful,” Amy Cuddy explains, we initiate speech more often. “We speak more slowly and take more time. We don’t rush. We’re not afraid to pause. We feel entitled to the time we’re using.” Ahhh. That’s interesting, isn’t it?

Catherine Johns | May 25, 2022

Business Communication, Speaking

Substance, Style, and You

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who’s inspired not only Ukrainians but much of the western world started in the world of comedy. You likely know he played a high school teacher who improbably became president on a TV show, Servant of the People. From there Zelensky ran for president in real life, with a campaign comprised mostly of stand-up gigs and YouTube videos. He’s emerged as a world leader since Russia invaded Ukraine and instead of fleeing to safety, he stayed in Ukraine to lead the fight.
There’s a remarkable story there. What does that have to do with you? Read on ...

Catherine Johns | May 11, 2022

Working trip of the President of Ukraine to the Kyiv region 62

Business Communication, Speaking

Be Brave Enough To Be Seen

How self-confident are you? Apparently, I’m part of Confidence Culture - which is what a handful of British academics, culture analysts and authors are calling the obsession with women’s self-confidence. “Confidence,” they say, “is both a culture and cult.” They point to books and programs about women and confidence as evidence of this obsession. Though their list of books did not include mine, I was in good company when I wrote Show Up and Shine: Simple Steps to Boost Your Confidence and Charisma. So what's all the fuss ...

Catherine Johns | Apr 13, 2022

photo of Businessman is explaining works to officers while training together at the office.

Business Communication, Speaking

Before You Speak …

How self-confident are you? Apparently, I’m part of Confidence Culture - which is what a handful of British academics, culture analysts and authors are calling the obsession with women’s self-confidence. “Confidence,” they say, “is both a culture and cult.” They point to books and programs about women and confidence as evidence of this obsession. Though their list of books did not include mine, I was in good company when I wrote Show Up and Shine: Simple Steps to Boost Your Confidence and Charisma. So what's all the fuss ...

Catherine Johns | Mar 30, 2022