Rising Above Resilience Fatigue: Cultivating Inner Resilience for Lasting Well-being

Do you ever get tired of being resilient? Exhausted from trying to stay positive in difficult situations? You may even be asking, “When is it going to get easier?” 

As much as I do believe it’s important to rise above tough times, to find resilience in the face of life’s difficulties (many of which may be out of our control) this really hit home for me recently. My mom faced some unexpected medical challenges and I found myself struggling to be resilient in order to be strong for her and to work with all of her doctors regarding her medical care. It was exhausting and overwhelming at times. There were even moments I felt defeated, worrying that I wasn’t doing enough to support her.

No matter who we are and the curveballs life throws at us, we can’t escape life’s difficulties. Facing challenges is part of being human. But here’s what I know to be true: Being resilient doesn’t mean you have to be strong all the time!

So what do you do when you don’t have the energy or you’re simply too tired to be resilient? Here are some strategies that will help you navigate through these feelings

• Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it's okay to feel tired and it doesn't diminish your strength or value as a person because you don’t feel like being resilient.

• Develop a “coping skills toolbox:'' Coping is all about how we behave in difficult and stressful situations and no matter how terrible our circumstances might be, even if we have little or no control over what’s happening, we can still decide how we respond. Remind yourself of your ability to bounce back from difficult situations, the challenges you've overcome in the past and the strengths and coping skills you've developed along the way. Make a list, if you can, of positive coping strategies that have worked for you such as exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy. 

• Set boundaries: If possible, say no to additional responsibilities or commitments. Also, allow yourself to step back from the situation and give yourself permission to take a break. Setting healthy boundaries can help alleviate some of the pressure and help you regain your energy to be resilient.

• Seek professional help: It's okay to ask for help when you need it. Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is essential, and sometimes that means acknowledging when you need support. So, if  you're feeling constantly overwhelmed and unable to cope, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to better manage stress and build resilience.
  
  One of my mom’s favorite quotes is, “The goal of living is to be able to absorb all of the pain of life and lose none of the joy.” There’s no “quick fix” to absorbing the pain of life, nor easy solutions to avoid it entirely. Finding our resilience and building it back up again, no matter how tired we may be, is a gradual process that takes time and practice. With consistent practice, we can learn to cultivate a more adaptive, stronger, resilient mindset over time and learn how to give ourselves grace, even when things feel hard, and savor the joy when possible.
  
  If you’re interested in learning more resilience coping strategies to stay calm, confident and even thrive in tough times, check out my course “Dare: To Rise Above Tough Times” on BrunnerAcademy.com.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

The Brunner Method for Practicing

Are you giving yourself the best chance at success? Whether it’s making a pitch, a presentation, or a speech, unless you are practicing, chances are the answer is no. I hear the reasons all the time as to why someone may not practice; time constraints, discomfort of speaking in public and even the idea of practicing can induce anxiety. You might even think you know the material well enough or have sufficient speaking skills to succeed without rehearsal. Woody Allen once said, “80% of your success comes from just showing up.” I believe 80% of your success comes from preparation. And preparation includes practicing. 

I’ve developed The Brunner Method for Practicing that incorporates my other concept, Liz’s 4 C’s, that will give you more confidence, help you to know your content well, have more clarity of your content, and help you deliver any message in a conversational way. By following these steps, you can unleash your potential in a way that’s based in both habit-forming best practice and human behavior:

• First, schedule time to create your content.

• Once you’ve designated that time and written your content, divide your completed message into three, four or five sections, depending on length and what makes sense from a content perspective.

• Create a practice schedule based on how much time you have until you need to deliver your content. 

• Practice the last section out loud, first, by itself, and record yourself. (I’ll use four sections for this explanation.) Listen back to your recording for vocal variety, pacing, and volume. If you stumble over a word or phrase more than once, change it and eliminate the worry of stumbling over it when you are performing the speech live. Also, as you listen back to the recording, ask yourself if your content has forward motion, structure and flow. 

• The next day (or afternoon), practice section three by itself, record and listen to determine if it all sounds “good.”  Once it feels comfortable, do sections three and four together, in chronological order. Then go on to section two, follow this same structure, and finally section one. 

• Depending on the length of each section, you may only need to spend 20-30-minutes doing each section, or less. You may also choose to simply work on one section and only one section for a couple of days if it is challenging. Your practice schedule may also be determined by how much time you have until the actual delivery of your speech. The point is: Do not go “top to bottom,” beginning to the end. (More on the reasoning and benefits of this below.)

• Time yourself for each section, and eventually the entire speech, so you know how long your remarks are. Ensure that you're not rushing through important points or dragging on too long in order to keep your audience engaged.
  
  The benefits of this methodology are:

• There is a muscle memory that happens between your brain and your mouth when you practice out loud. 

• When you are finally delivering your message, from the beginning to the end, your energy stays high throughout your remarks because as you get to each next section, you’ve tricked your brain into thinking it’s a new speech because you practiced that section as its own entity. What often happens—if people practice out loud at all—is they usually go from the beginning to the end, but somewhere in the middle it begins to lose momentum. By practicing backwards you do not lose forward momentum.

• If a particular section is not working, this is an opportunity to improve your storytelling, to possibly choose more effective words, eliminate any unnecessary information or jargon.

• When you know your content, have clarity of your content, you will have more confidence and can deliver your remarks in a conversational way. 
  
  This is not about memorizing your remarks. As a professional keynote speaker, I’m not a big believer in memorization because if you forget something you thought you memorized, that can throw you off your game (see also: confidence). With the Brunner Method for Practicing, you are not learning your content by rote. And remember: the audience has NO idea what you were planning on saying, so to them, it’s always fresh.

  To learn this methodology with support, inquire here about 1:1 coaching experiences, tailor-made to fit your goals.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

The Power of Authenticity for Business Leaders

In a world inundated with marketing noise and corporate jargon, authenticity has emerged as the gold standard for successful leadership and brand building, both internally and externally. Teams thrive being unified by clear and aligned values. Consumers crave genuine connections, transparency, and sincerity from the companies they engage with. For business leaders, embracing authenticity isn't just a trend; it's a strategic imperative in fostering trust, loyalty, and long-term success. 

But what does authenticity mean and what does it look like in today’s business environment? The practice of being genuine, transparent, and true to one's values, purpose, and identity, involves aligning actions, communications, and decisions with core beliefs and principles, rather than merely following trends or seeking short-term gains.

Here are five key aspects to build and establish authenticity for any kind of leader:

• Transparent communication: Authentic businesses communicate openly and honestly with their stakeholders, including customers, investors, the public, and their employees. When businesses empower their teams to express their authentic selves, and encourage them to bring their whole selves to work, employees  are 42% less likely to say they'll leave their job within a year. (Harvard Business Review) This kind of transparency builds trust and fosters stronger relationships that are built over time through genuine interactions, mutual respect and engagement. 

• Consistency: Authenticity requires consistency in behavior and messaging, between what businesses say and what they do, ensuring that their actions align with their stated values. In other words, leading with integrity and upholding ethical standards. Studies show that 86% of consumers value consistent authenticity and integrity when deciding what brands they like and support. (Stackla)

• Purpose-driven: Authenticity goes beyond polished marketing campaigns. In fact, surveys indicate that the vast majority of consumers (91%) expect companies to operate responsibly to address social and environmental issues. (Cone Communications) When businesses are driven by a clear sense of purpose beyond profit-making, they prioritize creating value for society, whether through delivering high-quality products and services, contributing to social causes, or promoting sustainability. When a company demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, it can improve their reputation and brand image and positions them as a global citizen, making them a force for common good. 

• Adaptability: There’s no question that businesses should be adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances in order to stay relevant in the present, and thrive in the ever-changing future. Combining adaptability and authenticity can create a powerful competitive advantage for businesses, especially in times of crisis. When authentic leaders stay true to their core values, they are able to provide guidance, empathy, mitigate reputational risks and build trust with stakeholders. This sets the tone for collaboration and cooperation. With continued practice, adaptability can play out and provide a forward-thinking reputation for businesses, and drive sustainable growth and success.

• Embracing vulnerability: Authentic leaders are not afraid to tell their story and to reveal who they are to others. They are willing to be open and vulnerable, acknowledging mistakes, admitting imperfections and learning from so-called “failures'' which can strengthen trust and credibility. As I often say, “Sometimes being imperfect is more perfect because you are being your best, authentic self.”

Authenticity isn't just a buzzword; it's a fundamental principle that underpins effective leadership. This is about prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains. By embracing authenticity business leaders can foster trust, loyalty, and sustainable growth in an increasingly discerning and values-driven marketplace. 

As we navigate the complexities of the business world, authenticity can be a guiding light, illuminating the path to genuine connections, meaningful relationships, and lasting success. To learn more about how I can help you and your team lead with authenticity in mind, visit my Contact page or drop me a line: info@lizbrunner.com

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

“Out with the Old, In with the New”: Habits To Keep In Mind For the New Year

As we turn the corner and head into the new year, it’s almost an annual rite of passage to set resolutions. But instead of adding on to our “to do” lists, can you consider what you could abandon in a week or a month. What habits are not serving you well? What positive practices can you replace them with that will serve you well? Instead of overnight reform, what can you modify about your current practices that will make you a happier, more authentic being? Based on my work with clients, here are some of the old habits that I recommend evaluating and what positive changes you can make instead:

Old habit: Memorizing your presentations. In my philosophy, a presentation, or any remarks for that matter, do not need to be memorized verbatim. Do you need to know them well? Absolutely! Memorizing content doesn’t make you sound authentic and can sometimes result in a hyperfixation on details and the delivery is lost or your mind goes blank searching for an exact word or phrase.You may even freeze and then all the nerves kick in.

New habit: Learn your content well by using my “Brunner Methodology for Practicing.” Here’s how you can try it for yourself: Divide your remarks into reasonable length sections, (for example, maybe four sections). Practice section four first, out loud, record yourself, and only focus on that section, making adjustments, adding pauses for breath, a smile, etc.. Then do the same thing with #3, then #2, then #1. There are several reasons to practice this way; First, there's a muscle memory that is ignited between your brain and your mouth when you practice out loud. By practicing it backwards, and in sections, you know your content inside and out, and which sections need to be clarified to be more conversational. Also, your energy level stays high throughout your remarks because every time you get to a new section, your brain thinks you are back at the beginning because you practiced that section as its own entity. I promise you, this works. 

Old habit: Being too serious, even with a serious topic. I work with a lot of people who have to deliver financial reports, earnings calls, or reports to a Board of Directors. While this is serious business, sometimes with grim or negative results, it doesn’t have to be boring and in fact, the more personable you can be, the more others will let their guard down, create connection and buy into whatever is being said.

New habit: Remember that everything is a story. Your presentations, meetings and financial reports all convey some kind of sequence of events that require undivided attention, so make sure you are using storytelling techniques. I love working with clients to help them learn how to craft their message so that they connect with their audience in a stronger way. For example, don’t just give the numbers, find a way to share what the story is behind those numbers, and why the audience should care about them. Delivering context with authenticity, warmth—and if it feels comfortable, injecting some humor—can make you memorable and your story more impactful.

Old habit: Not preparing! 80% of your success comes from preparation. Saying you’re too busy or don’t have time to prepare is an excuse, not a reason. If you are unprepared, think about how stressful it will be to look back and realize how much easier, and better, things could have gone, if you had taken the time to prepare. As I always like to say, “Preparation is more powerful than perfection.” If you don’t have a preparation strategy that works for you, it's simply because you haven’t found the right one.

New habit: Carve out time in your calendar—and not the day before—for whatever it is you need and want to do well. Create what I call “sacred time” on your calendar that no one can have access to but you, and use that time for whatever you need to work on; crafting the right message, fine tuning your presentations or reports and considerwhat questions you may be asked. Whatever it is, you will be more successful with planning and preparation and the experience will be more fulfilling. 

What habits are you leaving behind in 2023? What updates will you be making in 2024? And remember, it’s never too late to start. Use these tips throughout the year to restart, audit your progress or revisit where you might need support.

Have you tried any of these tips? Need help in building these into your routine. I’m here to help.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

How To “Live Your Best Life” According To My 2023 Podcast Guests

Have you listened to my award winning podcast, “Live Your Best Life with Liz Brunner?” This past year, my guests came from all walks of life; professional athletes, cancer survivors, military veterans, distilling entrepreneurs and winemakers, chocolatiers, innkeepers, and a woman who started a movement of Good News around the world.

No matter what industry, each of them has recreated their lives, risen above challenges and fears to write their next chapter. Here are some of the lessons shared:

1. Be resilient: In life, there are often pivotal inflection points from burnout, to hitting rock bottom, grappling with poverty, or facing homelessness. When those moments happened, whatever they looked like, each of my guests discovered how fragile life can be and realized that if they truly wanted to change their life, they needed to be honest with themselves. That message was loud and clear with many guests, but Andrea Isabelle Lucas, founder of Barre & Soul, spoke to the heart of this message; “we must each take ownership of our life and where we are.” For many of my guests, including transformational life coach Pirie Jones Grossman, being resilient required doing the deep healing work in order to rise up from difficult circumstances. 

2. Fight fear: Life is full of fear, especially when making any kind of change. My guest, motivational speaker Sterling Hawkins’ best advice: “When you are scared, you have to fight that fear. You have to make the commitment to move forward “no matter what.” Similarly, knitting enthusiast and founder of Sh*t that I Knit, Christina Pardy, fought her fears with the idea that, “In the end, the fear of regret of not making a change in your life may be bigger than the fear of failure.” 

3. Keep dreaming: Too often we don’t give ourselves permission to dream or we are too afraid to follow dreams that seem too big, lofty or impossible to achieve. Suzy Welch, three-time best-selling author and a professor at the NYU Stern School of Business suggested: “We don’t need to edit our dreams. The world will do that for us.” And executive coach Tammy Gooler Loeb believes you have to “learn to trust your intuition” about those dreams and listen to that still small voice. It’s your internal compass, your own personal GPS.

4. Know “it’s never too late:” The average adult goes through 13-18 transitions in their lifetime. “What will you do with those ‘bonus years?’” Co-founder of the Modern Elder Academy Christine Sperber posed that question for all of us to consider and all of my guests have chosen to believe that it’s never too late to make the decision to change directions. Even if it feels as extreme as leaving the corporate world, changing professions entirely, or as former radio announcer Jack Lepiarz did, simply following his passion, and joining the circus.

5. Enjoy the journey: Gratitude and appreciation for the big wins and the small ones has played an important role in my guests enjoying the journey. With each passing year, their journeys now arc towards more authentic living by creating space for the things that matter. Former CEO, and now conscious growth strategist and coach Luke Iorio creates space and enjoys the journey by taking nature walks, and practicing meditation. For breast cancer survivor and fashion entrepreneur Gretta Monahan, her goal is to live in the present moment with daily gratitude. Through this, all of my guests share a passion for helping others change their lives so that they too can live their best life!

These are important lessons to learn from real people who have “been there,” harnessed the power of resilience, pushed through fear and learned how to live their best lives despite the temptation to give up big dreams or felt it may be “too late.” In the days and weeks to come, I hope you will enjoy the journey you are on to live your best life.

Get inspired for your next chapter by listening to these, and other stories, here.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

6 Things To Keep In Mind Before Planning Your Next Big Event

For years, I have had the distinct honor and pleasure of being a keynote speaker or emcee for a variety of organizations whether they be large corporations or charities. So, from my vantage point “on stage,” I have also seen firsthand what it takes to create a great event, whether it be a fundraising gala, an annual meeting soiree or a wedding. If you’re about to plan an event, here are some of the key things to consider when building an event to remember:

1. Know that a stellar event is more than just careful planning: Attention to detail, a timeline for milestones, and a focus on delivering on a goal is what will provide value and memories for the audience you are serving. What do you want our event to achieve, and (perhaps just as importantly), what do you want them to feel while there, and take away? Make sure your budget aligns with your goals and revisit those goals as often as necessary to ensure that every detail aligns to meet them.

2. Pick the “right date” so it doesn’t conflict with holidays and other major events: This can make such a difference when it comes to attendance. You’d be surprised how many planners haven’t checked the community social calendars. And if you choose a theme, make sure the venue matches the style and feeling you want to create. The best events are not always the most aesthetically ornate or impressive. In fact, what people remember most is the feeling they had when they were there.

3. Secure talented emcees, engaging speakers, presenters or entertainment that align with your event's theme and objectives: The involvement of your talent can greatly impact the event's success. Given my television career and as a keynote speaker, if things change rapidly, or there’s an emergency, I know how to “go with the flow.” Years ago, a man in my audience was having a heart attack, fell off his chair and fell to the floor. It was my job to keep everyone calm, and quiet, while paramedics attended to him. Thankfully, in the end, he was fine and it was an important lesson in poise and the power you have when commanding a room.

4. Identify sponsors and partners who can provide financial support, resources, or in-kind contributions to enhance the event should reflect your strategy and have the same values of the event: It’s also important they are aware of your promotional and marketing strategies and timelines, both on-line and off-line in order to reach your target audience so that they can participate and add value. The most authentic sponsorship opportunities have a mutual buy-in before, during and, in some cases, after the event. When everyone is on the same page about commitments and contributions, goals are met much more effectively.

5. Pay close attention to logistical details, including audio-visual equipment, seating arrangements, catering, transportation, registration check-in and event timing: Consider how you can use technology to your advantage using interactive tools like QR codes and freebies. This is about creating a positive and memorable attendee experience and also an impact that lasts beyond the event. As an emcee, part of my role is keeping the event engaging and moving along, but I’ve also found myself in the position of getting events back on track if someone goes “rogue.” No, you can’t control everything, but one thing event organizers do have control over is sticking to the event timeline outlined in the invitation as much as possible. If dinner is supposed to be at 7:00pm, serving them at 9:00pm is not only disrespectful to your guests, but it makes it tough on the venue staff. 

6. Show gratitude: Just as important as creating that great experience is sharing highlights, thanking everyone for their participation, and gathering testimonials and insights. A single, hour-long program can have lasting impact for weeks, months or years to come when specific actions are taken to show appreciation, celebrate successes and understand opportunities for future planning.

Building a great event is a multifaceted process, but it’s well worth it if you have achieved your goals and your audience leaves feeling as if their time, and money, was well spent.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

The Space Between Connections: A Reflection

I recently attended a lovely “Connections Dinner” hosted by The Hollister Group where the energy was electric. All of the guests had been assigned a specific table, and once we sat down and began introducing ourselves, we noticed there was one empty chair at our table. We were wondering if someone had been unable to attend at the last minute only to discover that there was an empty chair at every table, a deliberate and intentional empty chair. 

Between the appetizer and dinner course, our hosts finally let us in on their plan; they asked each of us to contemplate what that empty seat might symbolize and share our thoughts with our table-mates. It was a powerful conversation. Not surprisingly, and importantly, there were compelling viewpoints about inclusiveness, representation, and equity, and what organizations need to do to make sure there is a seat at the table for all. But also raised the sobering question of all, “If you do have a seat at the table, do you actually have a voice?”

Many of the reflections also revolved around lives lost following the mass shootings in Maine and the ongoing wars in Israel and Ukraine, as well as all the families who have lost loved ones who never returned home while serving to keep our country safe. There are far too many homes where there will be an empty seat, or seats, at the table, and not just here in America. But there was also one uplifting and hopeful thought; the idea of potential, of a brighter future, and the opportunity to make a difference and to be of service in this world.

Here in the U.S., we will celebrate Thanksgiving this month where many families and friends will gather together to celebrate this holiday. May we pause and remember who is not at the table, and why, and the potential impact of their absence, and may we also be thankful for all the blessings we do have.

What does that empty seat at the table mean to you?

What I’ve learned in the last 10 years…

Little did I know when I signed off the air 10-years ago today, October 17, 2013, that a decade later, I’d still be doing this. When I launched Brunner Communications, I wasn’t thinking about years down the road. (I was simply trying to figure out how to build a business from scratch!) Nor did I allow myself to contemplate possible failure. When you consider that 96% of small businesses fail within 10 years, the fact that I’m still here amazes even me. But, I have done the work, and am still doing the work. Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart!

If you’ve read my book, Dare to Own You; Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams into Your Next Chapter, you already know, I never ever wanted to run my own business. This was never on my radar, but I’m so grateful that I did take that chance. And even more grateful for those who have supported me: clients, audiences that have heard me as their keynote speaker, podcast guests and listeners around the world, my team members, or all who follow me on social media. 

This journey thus far has been incredibly empowering, and yet at times, it has been downright terrifying! I was fortunate to have early financial success, but there have been years when that was not the case. There were times when I was on such a fast moving treadmill, I didn’t know how I would keep up, let alone get off. There were chapters when things were shifting so much—or not at all—that I was fearful my business would not survive, especially during the pandemic. I’m not alone in that fear! Through it all, I’ve done my best to learn and grow. Here are a few of the lessons I’ve learned along the way:

Resilience and perseverance. These may be two of the most important traits any entrepreneur needs to cultivate. Perseverance requires commitment. I’m not one to give up easily, which has served me well throughout my entire professional life, but there will be times when obstacles seem insurmountable, or you may feel you’ve lost your “mojo,” for whatever reason. You must persevere. And, if and when something goes wrong—because it will—it may feel like a failure, but there is almost always a lesson to be learned. Failure is not the enemy. Not learning the lesson is the enemy. That’s when you need both resilience and perseverance.

Adapt and evolve. Goals are always shifting and they should change if you're going to compete in an ever-evolving business environment. Be willing to adapt and pivot, continually examine your goals and tweak them as you chase what can feel like a moving target at times. My Chief of Staff and I are constantly reviewing what’s working, what’s not, and prioritizing and strategizing the goals, both short term and long term.

Patience. It’s still something I work on daily. When I was a news anchor, I was used to a fast paced world where decisions were made in moments, but the corporate world runs on their own clock! There are often layers of checks and balances that need to happen before a decision can be made. I have to remind myself that sometimes the best things in life take time and patience. I met one of my favorite clients six years ago, but it was only this past summer when he was finally able to bring me in to work with his executive team. It was worth the wait. The engagement went very well. 

Continuous learning. Be curious. Seek guidance. Be willing to ask for help, to ask for support. I knew I had the expertise, the experience and credibility to do what I was setting out to do, but when I started Brunner Communications, I wasn’t exactly sure how to put my service offerings together. I took every opportunity to learn from others in this space, asked questions, and at the same time, I had to learn to trust and believe in myself more. I often remind audiences and clients, “You know more than you think you know. Trust that.” 

Celebrate the wins, big and small! For me, the “wins” are when my clients see their success, they see their growth and can feel it, or when an audience has found my keynote speech inspiring and motivating. But here’s the kicker– you may or may not receive validation from the outside world. Find value in who you are, what you’ve accomplished, and own all of it. And, pause. Take some time to appreciate and celebrate all that you have accomplished no matter how big or small. Too often we forget to do this. By pausing to appreciate your own personal success, you are building a strong foundation for future growth and success. 

These lessons are not simply “one and done.” No, they are ongoing. I feel blessed to be able to use my gifts and talents in service to others, and seeing their progress is one of the best feelings in the world! During this past 10-years, I’ve worked with clients 1:1 and in workshops, launched an award winning podcast, started an on-line learning platform, BrunnerAcadmey.com, and written my first book that became a best-seller and won two awards from Feathered Quill. I am beyond grateful, but my journey is not over. As a journalist, I was telling other people’s stories. As a coach, I’m helping people create and share their stories, and now as an author and keynote speaker, I’m sharing my story. So, here’s to the next chapter!

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

“We Need To Talk:” How To Handle Tough Conversations

During a recent workshop with top-level executives, I was asked, “What were some of the best practices in handling tough conversations, even those that potentially might become contentious?” This isn’t the first time this topic has come up with clients and as we collectively continue to move the dial on what it means to be a “leader.” I suspect it won’t be the last. So, I want to share with you what I offer when this comes up:

Having tough conversations can be challenging, and requires courage, patience, and empathy, but it also comes down to how you communicate. In Steven Covey’s book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People,” habit #5 is “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” It’s the “seek first to understand” part that is most important. How do you communicate in a way that seeks to understand? It involves both verbal and non-verbal skills. Here are four best practices:

1) “Intentional listening:'' Also known as active listening, intentional listening is an important non-verbal skill. Let the speaker know that you hear them, and understand what they are sharing with you by validating their ideas, perspectives, and feelings. Showing empathy and creating a safe environment for the communication to continue—whether you agree or disagree with them at the moment— is a way to connect on a deeper level, ensuring that concerns are being acknowledged, even if they’re not reciprocated. This shows understanding and patience. Avoid interrupting or formulating responses in your mind while they are speaking. Most people, when acting as if they are listening, are often doing so with the intent to respond, not to understand.  Every human being wants to feel as if they are seen and heard. Patience may also mean stepping away and revisiting the issue when all parties can be fully present and approach the conversation from a problem-solving perspective.

2) Do your best to stay calm and composed: As hard as it may be, especially if the person you are listening to is very angry, tense, or emotional, take a deep breath, regulate your emotions, speak with a calm voice, and respond thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively. Do your best to keep the conversation focused on the issue at hand and avoid personal attacks. Treat the other person with respect and dignity, use “I” statements, and, when possible, be clear on the timeline of the next steps so that there are defined milestones toward a resolution or continuance of the conversation.

3) Ask open-ended questions to explore the other person's perspective: Encourage them to offer solutions or suggestions. Look for common ground and areas of agreement and when there are none, be clear about your boundaries or limitations. No one likes to hear “no” but sometimes it can help to create understanding when certain demands can not be met. The most clarifying question you can ask, even if subconsciously, is “Why?” To understand someone’s motivations, fears and perspective is to understand them as a whole person.

4) If possible, be open to compromise: Consider different viewpoints, aim for a resolution that respects both parties needs and concerns, and if a compromise is not possible, have the courage to be as transparent as you can with why compromise is not an option.

Having tough conversations is a part of business in almost any industry. It's important to approach them with a genuine intention to understand, and resolve conflicts. When you seek first to understand, and handle tough conversations thoughtfully, you are demonstrating leadership, both for yourself and your team or organization, and are far more likely to achieve a positive outcome, more often than not. 

Still need support in navigating tough conversations? Our expert-level communications team would love to help in providing customized options with 1:1 or group coaching sessions. Email us at info@lizbrunner.comto begin exploring your next chapter in leadership and team-building.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

7 Questions To Ask To Sell Anything (Including Yourself!)

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a high-performing salesperson and an average salesperson? It’s a mistake to think it’s simply luck. There are a number of factors that lead to success: mastering a combination of skills and asking yourself key questions, especially if you are selling a service as opposed to a product. When selling a service, it’s not always easy to explain features and benefits because it’s intangible. A prospect can’t see it which means YOU are the product. You are selling yourself as much as you are selling the services you offer. Here are seven questions and strategies that will help you come out a winner:

#1: Have you done your homework? Whether you’re selling a product or a service, it goes without saying that you must know the features and benefits of all of your offerings. But, don’t forget to research your leads and get to know your prospects. I work with clients all the time who barely spend any time researching their potential clients. It is a missed opportunity in the sales process. Without some of that prep work, you may not know what your prospect’s pain points are and therefore lack some understanding of how to create and/or add value for them.

#2: Are you actively listening? This is a skill that is often underrated. Being a good listener is being a good communicator. Those who have mastered the art of listening are often the ones who are the most successful in business. Contrary to what we are taught, the best listeners don’t listen only to respond. Instead, the power of listening can be used to mirror statements and concerns, address them fully, and put people at ease.

#3: Do you know how to clearly differentiate yourself? This comes down to the message you share and the emotion the potential client “feels” about what you say. The poet Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Using storytelling, you can create connection and paint a picture that offers the prospect the opportunity to see, and “feel,” how your services will benefit them, and enhance their life. Storytelling is a also great way to show results.

#4: Am I focusing on building a relationship? Selling a service is about selling yourself which comes down to trust and building relationships. Authentic connections are made when you can find common ground and offer a real solution when you genuinely care about your prospect or their challenges. It’s about wanting to make a difference and meeting people where they are. According to Tim Hurson and Tim Dunne (from their book “Never Be Closing”), “the best kind of selling emerges naturally from your genuine interest in the person you’re working with and your sincere desire to be of use.” The stronger the relationship and connection, the more you can create and personalize your pitch.

#5: Am I willing to play the “long game?” You must have patience and persevere. Research suggests that only 2% of sales occur at a first meeting, and for the best chance of success, it may take at least five attempts. About 80% of sales occur only after at least five attempts. If at first you don’t succeed, go back, make notes of what you can do differently, understand if it was a budgetary concern, timing, or a situation that resulted in an undesirable outcome, and try again. Failure, while not always a negative, is proof that you are trying.

#6: Am I confident in my communication skills? Learning to sell with confidence and communicate effectively are two of the most important skills you can master. Persevering in sales requires maintaining self-confidence, and being able to communicate the benefits of your services clearly, and concisely, and how it will meet your client’s needs. Working with a coach can help you with both. 

#7: Am I continuously learning? And finally, stay open to learning new techniques, refining your communication skills, and adapting to changing market dynamics. When you learn skills and techniques to build your confidence, selling services—and yourself—will come more naturally and easily, having an enormous impact on your career, your performance, your ability to network, and beyond.

Becoming a great salesperson is an ongoing journey. It requires dedication, self-awareness, and a commitment to delivering value to your customers, and isn’t that the bottom line? Good luck! 

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

5 Ways To Productively Enjoy Time Off

I don’t know about you, but it feels like summer is quickly zipping by with little time left to make the most of it, let alone take a vacation. What I have found interesting—and also think is fantastic—is how many companies have been encouraging, and almost requiring, time off, and not only around the holidays.

Two-years ago, HubSpot introduced a Global Week of Rest as a long term plan to reduce burnout. This year, the 4th of July fell on a Tuesday, but most of HubSpot’s employees had the entire week off. Deloitte, a professional services firm with more than 156K+ employees in the U-S alone, offered a company-wide, time-off policy for the first three-days of that same week. Neither of these are considered vacation days or PTO, Personal Time Off, but rather what’s being called “proactive rest.” 

According to Gartner, a management consulting company, their 2023 work trends forecast suggests the best organizations are stepping up to usher in new perks and working models to help employees “maintain their emotional resilience and performance rather than offering rest as a recovery solution after both have plummeted.”

No matter when you take time off, the point is to take it! There are many benefits in doing so that impact your individual, physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Stepping away and dedicating time to rest and rejuvenate and focus on your well-being can significantly reduce stress levels. And there are so many other benefits too; it can improve your mood, increase positive emotions, enhance overall mental resilience, and increase productivity and creativity. And sometimes that proactive rest can also afford you the opportunity to learn something new. All of which can contribute to a sense of life fulfillment.

Even if your company doesn't offer “proactive rest,” it is important to find or create time to recharge before the full onslaught of fall activities, school or continuing education kicks into high gear. I happen to love summer and the warmth of the sunny days. Here are some suggestions for how to “proactively rest;”

1. Make a conscious effort to disconnect from work—your real job—as much as you can during whatever time you find or create for “proactive rest.” Turn off work-related notifications on your phone and avoid checking work-related platforms or emails. At the very least—if you must—allow yourself a brief period of time, only once a day, each day to check your email. It’s also important to set clear boundaries regarding your availability during time off. That may require an out-of-office auto-response or simply letting colleagues know you are unavailable.

2. Practice and prioritize self-care. Take time to relax, unwind, and engage in activities that bring you joy and help you to recharge such as reading, getting a massage, meditating, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. 

3. While it's sometimes good to have a plan, an itinerary, because it gives you something to look forward to, it’s also good to be flexible and open to spontaneity, to go with the flow and embrace the unexpected. Those unexpected opportunities can provide the best experiences.

4. Capture the special moments and memories by taking photos, or start a journal to document your experiences. Reflecting on these memories in the future will bring back the joy and nostalgia of the summer season.

5. Ease back into routine. As your time off comes to an end, give yourself some buffer time before returning to work or your regular routine. This will allow you to adjust and ease back into your responsibilities gradually, reducing the chances of post-vacation stress.

Remember, the key to enjoying the last days of summer is to be present, appreciate the beauty of this time of year, and create moments that will make lasting memories. Enjoy the warmth, sunshine, and freedom that summer brings before transitioning into the next season. Dare to own your well-deserved time off.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

4 Tips to Beat “Glossophobia”: What It Is & How To Overcome

Have you ever had to stand up in a company meeting, present a project, or even pitch a new client and freeze? Guess what? You are not alone! In fact, more than 75% of the population has experienced some fear, or dread, around public speaking. Research has shown that the fear of public speaking outweighs the fear of snakes, heights, and even death! (University of Minnesota) It’s actually called “glossophobia,” and it can happen anywhere, at any time; in the workplace, in a job interview, in a classroom, or even at a party or networking event. You might be the most intelligent person with the most interesting things to say, but when you become the center of attention, all bets are off. Your voice starts to quiver, you can’t catch your breath, beads of perspiration start rolling down from your forehead, you start adding unnecessary filler words—the um’s, and ah’s that take up precious time—and panic may even set in. 

The good news is that it is normal to be afraid and no matter where you are today with your ability and/or comfort to speak in public, everyone can get better at it. No one is born knowing how to speak effectively. It is a learned skill. Improving your skills as a public speaker will take you to new levels of success both personally and professionally. Having had a career as a journalist, keynote speaker, and executive communications coach, I believe that any communication, whether one-on-one, in a small group, on a stage, or even on a conference call, it’s all “public speaking.” 

Being a good communicator is being a good public speaker. So, how can you get better at it? Incorporate a practice I titled “Liz’s 4 C’s,” Confidence, Content, Clarity, and Conversational.

1. Confidence: How do you become a confident public speaker? Preparation is key. Far too often, many people believe they can simply “wing it.” “80% of your success comes from preparation.” (Helpmates.com) Preparation is more powerful than perfection. Being prepared gives you confidence, which leads to command, and presence. This “it factor” is what helps to make you memorable. Even if your audience doesn’t remember every single word you say, to quote poet Maya Angelou, “...people will remember how you made them feel.” 

2. (Your) Content: It’s the “story.” Everything is a story. Storytelling is a public speaker’s secret weapon, and putting your message together in the right way can make a huge difference in how you made people feel, and how your remarks are remembered. Consider what’s in the message for your audience. Are you sharing a story addressing what’s important to them? Why should they spend time listening to what you have to say? I ask my clients these questions all the time when they are preparing to speak on anything: a new strategy, their latest research, or a pitch for new business. Use real examples and interesting stories that will resonate with your audience. This is another way to make sure you are memorable for the right reasons. 

3. Clarity of your content: What’s the story behind the numbers or research? That’s providing context which leads to clarity. Can everyone understand what you are saying? Too many speakers use too much industry jargon and not everyday language. Use simple language and shorter sentences. Not only will it be easier for you to deliver, but it will be much more interesting to your audience.

4. Conversational: Delivering your story (your content) in a conversational way is key. Use what I call “vocal variety:” What you say, how you say it, and how you sound saying it matters. When delivering your message, “vocal variety” means varying your tone, pitch, and pace to make your speech more engaging. Speak clearly and project your voice to ensure everyone can hear you. Pause for effect and allow the audience to absorb what you have said without the need to fill the silence.

And yes, you must also practice, practice, practice, rehearse, rehearse, rehearse, out loud. There’s a muscle memory that happens between your brain and your mouth when you practice out loud. I’ve developed a very specific methodology of practicing backward. I use it myself and my clients tell me it works for them too. Plus, record yourself. Are you using “Liz’s 4 C’s?” Do you sound confident? Do you have clarity of your content and are you delivering it in a conversational way? I know, it’s not easy sometimes to listen to ourselves, but it is a way to ensure that your message is on point in all ways. 

Finally, if you typically get nervous, practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing exercises can help you to find a way to channel that nervousness into enthusiasm and passion. Remind yourself of why your presentation matters to your audience.

Incorporating all of these public speaking techniques will help you learn to be a better communicator, a better public speaker and lessen those anxious “glossophobia” feelings.

We may not be as good as Winston Churchill or Eleanor Roosevelt, but neither should that be the goal. Communicate, connect, and engage your audience with authenticity, confidence, and command. That is how you will be remembered.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

Change Is In The Air

Change is in the air, and that got me thinking about the changes we all go through in life. Change is a constant in life, whether by choice or by circumstance. It can come in many different forms – physical, emotional, social, or even environmental. There may be changes in careers, relationships, or new dwelling places. As John Maxwell says, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” That is a powerful statement.

While we can’t always control the changes that happen to us, we can control how we respond to them. And that’s where growth comes in, but growth is not guaranteed. It requires a conscious effort to learn from the experiences and challenges that life presents to us.

I believe it begins with first embracing change. Yes, it may be hard. It may be uncomfortable too, but it is also an opportunity to learn, grow, and become more resilient in the face of future changes.

Take time to reflect on the changes that have occurred in your life and how you have responded to them. Use that knowledge to move forward, to reassess your goals and priorities, or develop new skills that will help you navigate your new circumstances. It’s also important to have a support system in place. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support and guidance.

Growth is a journey, not a destination. Be patient and compassionate with yourself. By reflecting on our experiences, and adapting to new circumstances, we can use change as an opportunity to grow and become better versions of ourselves.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

Cultivating Confidence

Do you have days where you feel like a rock star? And then, the next day, something happens and you feel like your confidence has fallen to the bottom of the barrel? It happens. I call that “the confidence barometer.” Just like the weather, confidence levels can go up and down. Confidence is not linear. It may take a dip for a number of reasons. It’s called “being human.” There’s an ebb and flow to confidence and even if one achieves some level of confidence, it doesn’t mean that you are immune to doubts or fears. 

In my book, Dare to Own You: Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams into your Next Chapter, there’s an entire chapter dedicated to “The Courage of Confidence.” It offers several methods of how to cultivate confidence such as setting and achieving small goals, learning and practicing new skills, surrounding oneself with supportive people, focusing on one’s strengths and past successes and challenging the negative self-talk. What you tell yourself is incredibly important! It’s why I came up with a game I call my “Confidence ABC’s.” I use it, and I share it with clients too. I start at the beginning of the alphabet and think of a word, or several words, for each letter that resonates with some form of confidence and how I want to feel about myself. For example: A- I am Authentic, I am Athletic, I am Articulate. B- I am Bold, I am Brave. C- I am Creative, and yes, I am Confident! Saying “I AM” is very important, as is the feeling you create within yourself when you practice this game outloud. 

Confidence is important for everyone, regardless of gender. I also believe cultivating confidence is a personal journey, a state of mind and can be learned. When we are able to acknowledge and work through the confidence barometer dips, it can help us set us up to achieve our goals, communicate effectively, and navigate challenging situations with more resilience.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

Why Does Executive Presence Matter In 2023?

In today’s fast-paced business world, having a strong executive presence is more important than ever. As organizations continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by technology, globalization, and changing consumer preferences, having leaders who can command attention, inspire trust, and lead effectively is critical for success.

But what exactly is “executive presence” and why is it so important in 2023? Clients ask me this question all the time, but I guarantee, you know it when you see it, and you know it when it’s not there. At its core, executive presence is the ability to project confidence, poise, competence, and authority in any situation. It involves not just what you say, but also how you say it, and how you carry yourself. It’s the combination of all of your communication skills—verbal and non-verbal—and your ability to inspire and lead others. Presence also has a supernatural spirit to it, often described as the “it factor”. 

One of the key benefits of having a strong executive presence is that it helps to build trust and credibility with colleagues, employees, stakeholders or any audience. When people see—and feel—that you are confident, competent, and in control, they are more likely to follow your lead, believe in your vision and consider you an expert. This is especially important in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving business environment, where trust and credibility can be difficult to earn and maintain. In addition to those benefits, executive presence can help you climb the next rung on the career ladder. According to the Center for Talent Innovation, “Executive presence accounts for 26% of what it takes to get promoted.”

Here’s the good news: Presence is not a trait, it’s a skill that can be learned and cultivated. However, developing a strong executive presence is not easy. It takes practice, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. One way to start is by paying attention to your communication style, body language, and overall demeanor. Are you speaking clearly and confidently? Are you making eye contact and using open body language? Are you projecting a sense of calm and control? These are all key elements of executive presence that you can work on over time, on your own, adopting tips from a professional or with support from a coach.

In addition to working on your own presence, you can also look for opportunities to observe and learn from other leaders in your organization or industry. Pay attention to the way they communicate, lead, and navigate difficult situations. Take note of what they do well and begin to emulate it.

The difference between yesterday’s leaders and tomorrow’s innovators is the initiative they take to develop their own authentic executive presence. When you learn to leverage that presence, you become a leader who others want to follow and, and equally important, the exact leader you want to be.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top-level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

Practice the Three P’s; The Words That Have Guided My Business For Nine Years

Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart. It’s one thing to have a vision, it’s another to actually implement it and make it a reality. If you are struggling as an entrepreneur or in taking your side-hustle full-time, there are three words that I have learned one must have to have any kind of success: passion, perseverance and patience. 

Little did I know when I signed off of my last newscast on October 17, 2013, that nine  years later, I would survive being an entrepreneur, through a pandemic and even grown and pivoted a few times. Has it been easy? Sometimes, but mostly no, it has not. But it has been worth it. Entrepreneurs are not born, they are made! 

It may not be what you want to hear, but there is no magic formula to creating success. According to the Small Business Administration, 66% of first-time businesses fail within the first ten years. Running your own business is not easy and there is no one-size fits all approach. However, if you implement the three P’s, which I believe are entwined and related, maybe you can avoid some of the growing pains of entrepreneurship.

Passion:

You were passionate about an idea to build a business, so remind yourself of that when the going gets tough. Be passionate about continuous learning. The ability to learn and grow is one of the most important skills to have in life, let alone in entrepreneurship. Even failure. As I wrote in my book, Dare to Own You: Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams into Your Next Chapter, I believe failure is not the enemy. Not learning the lessons is the enemy.

Continuous learning also requires not being afraid to ask for help and finding the right people who are just as passionate as you are, who are also vested in your business, and want to help you succeed. 

And, be passionate about becoming a better, more effective communicator so you can sell yourself, your ideas, services and your physical products.

Perseverance:

Starting a business involves risk and in order to persevere, it requires initiative, determination and action. Each day, take small consistent steps, whether developing your strategy, staying on course with your business plan, or pivoting, if required. Be willing to constantly evolve as you move down this path. 

I believe it also takes resilience. One must be willing to rise above the challenges, recover quickly and persevere.

Patience:

In 2020, the number of start-up businesses grew by 24%, from 3.5 million to 4.4 million. In large part due to the pandemic. And women-owned businesses are also soaring in the U.S. How many of them will survive is still yet to be determined, and that is where patience comes in.

As Jeff Bezos once said, “All overnight success takes about 10 years.” May that be reassuring if you have not had the kind of success you are hoping for so far. Get comfortable with the concept that something of value takes time to come to fruition. 

We often want to see amazing results almost immediately, and if that doesn’t happen, we may lose some of that required passion and perseverance. But know this, there will be problems, maybe even delays, some of which will be out of your control. Establish realistic expectations, and be patient. And when you find your patience waning, remember your passion for why you started this business in the first place… and then persevere.

I’m grateful for the 3 P’s! I still have to remind myself of them nine years into my business, but I’m so glad I do because I continue to have amazing opportunities, working with incredibly talented people all around the globe. Here’s to the years ahead.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top-level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.

Virtual Presence: Do you have it?

If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a hundred times since the pandemic hit the world;  “I have zoom fatigue!”  Yes, there absolutely is such a thing.

Think about it;  when we used to go to the office, we’d move from our desks, to conference rooms, to client visits, to the snack lounge or any number of places over the course of a day.  There was some variety from “nine to five” more often than not.  Now, we sit in front of a computer screen, on video conference calls all day long, hour after hour after hour!  

Enter “Zoom fatigue.”

It takes so much more energy to connect with others, to engage an audience, to have “presence” in a virtual environment  Compounding upon that is the indefinite timeline during which we’ll continue to work in this way.

Why does it take so much more energy?  When you meet in person, you “feel” the energy of the people around you.  You can read their body language.  You can see if they are engaged with you and comprehending what you are saying.  For those who are used to being on a stage giving a presentation, you feed off of the energy you get from the audience.  Athletes know about this energy.  When there is a stadium filled with fans, that’s fuel for them.  The silent stadiums during the NFLs Week 1, however, may have felt more like practice than game day. 

In a similar way, when you are on a virtual call or webinar, as the speaker or presenter, you don’t feel the energy coming back at you.  Therefore, YOU have to create all of that energy by yourself,which often means you must give more – more energy, more passion, and better storytelling or messaging. You need to make “eye contact” with the camera. All of this to have “presence.”

How do you have eye contact virtually? You need to get comfortable looking into that tiny little camera lens at the top of your computer or into your external camera.  My years in television have given me more experience than most in doing this. Getting started, it may feel awkward, but it is the way to virtually look at your audience – to connect with them and to show confidence and presence.  Understandably, people tend to look at the faces on their computer screen, and not into the camera.  You want to see people’s faces when you speak to them, but in doing so, they do not feel as if you are looking at them and so you miss out on that connection. A helpful reminder? Put a post-it note with an arrow on your computer aimed at the camera.

Avoid using an iPad if you need to speak/present, unless you can add an external camera to the top.  With the iPad’s camera often to the left or right of the actual screen, making “eye contact” is extremely difficult. 

Over the past few months, I’ve been working with corporations who are transforming their annual in-person conferences to virtual events.They are finding that, in order to do it well, their teams need to learn new speaking skills.  As a communication coach, I’ve been teaching them tips and techniques to ensure each presenter has presence, is engaging, and keeps their audience’s attention throughout the event.  Looking into the camera lens is just one tip, but it’s often the most challenging, too.

Another tip:  make sure you have enough light on your face so people can read your facial expressions, which are a key component of communicating and showing presence, especially virtually.  The light should be in front of you, not behind you.  For more tips, take a look at this video conference guide.

More than likely, the virtual workplace will continue to dominate for quite some time and will certainly never disappear, even when the world begins to regain some normalcy.  So, now is the time to learn to do it well and to take your communication skills to the next level.  Communication coaching will build your presence virtually and in-person, so invest in your professional development today.

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in developing powerful, meaningful, and desirable brand identities. Through customized virtual or in-person training, either one-on-one or in workshops/seminars, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and to build marketable reputations. The firm provides ongoing consultative expertise to ensure reputations and performance skills are maintained.

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Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?

Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.