A brief presentation
Is it?* Don’t say it unless you’re sure.** *Brief depends on context, but in the absence of a clear norm a 5 minute presentation –… Read More »A brief presentation
communication
Freedom to the nose
Your right to swing your arm leaves off where my right not to have my nose struck begins. John B Finch (early version of a… Read More »Freedom to the nose
Watch the meeting
It’s easy to get totally absorbed in a meeting,* but it really helps if you can reserve a piece of your attention for watching what’s… Read More »Watch the meeting
Do what I say
With alacrity. Unless… … you’re not confident that you understand what I’m asking. … you think you understand but it still doesn’t make sense. …… Read More »Do what I say
By the word
How long does it need to be? What would be different if, rather than being paid by the word, you were paying?
Leaning in and leaning out
Your posture matters: in conversation at the table or fireside; on a video call (especially on a video call!); with your kids; while you work… Read More »Leaning in and leaning out
Neil Gaiman on character, motivation and plot
The next [building block of story] is the characters. Who are they? What do they want? I’m going to harp on a lot about what… Read More »Neil Gaiman on character, motivation and plot
When I’m bigger
My sons tell fantastic stories about what they’re going to do and be when they’re grown up: spies, taxi drivers, race-car drivers, generals, fathers of… Read More »When I’m bigger
Portfolio
Not: “I worked at this company.” “I held this position,” or even “I performed this role.” But rather: “I helped these people.” (Please go and… Read More »Portfolio
The practice school
This is the PRACTICE school of writing. Like running, the more you do it, the better you get at it. Some days you don’t want… Read More »The practice school