1. Describe what you do (at a party, event, wine tasting…) in a SHORT sentence that includes a benefit statement. “I work with you on how to speak for yourself to make more money.”
2. Add metaphors. “Life is a rollercoaster”.
3. Ask questions. Let the other person talk.
4. Give compliments. Tip: be specific and sincere.
5. Be present. Don’t be wedded to a certain outcome.
6. Listen more.
7. Find the humor and share the funny stuff. Note: I’m not a fan of jokes because a gender, political party, college… gets burned. Find the funny things that happen in your life. Humor = tragedy + time.

Karen Cortell Reisman, M.S., author of 3 books and President of Speak For Yourself®, works with organizations on how to communicate to make more money. It’s all in how you speak for yourself. Read more at www.SpeakForYourself.com/blog/