Proficiency in English, the global language, is not a guarantee that a foreigner will be able to easily adopt to another culture, even one that is well-versed in English. Add to this the pressure of addressing differences in world views and acceptance of varying points of references. Not only do words and expressions vary among cultures, there is also the consideration of tonality and gestures that can make one interpret expressions differently. Foreigners have to consider many things beyond the language to avoid potential conflicts resulting from misunderstanding. Slight mistakes from lack of awareness and sensibility can be costly.
I'm sure everyone's excited about the new Batman movie: The Dark Knight Rises. I'm also sure it will be a big hit. I can already see the guys lined up to buy the early bird tickets as their girlfriends wonder why they're so obsessed with a man who dresses up like a bat. It must be the high-tech gadgets and tank-like cars which, I assure you, looks nowhere near as stylish as the previous versions of the batmobile.
"You need more training, Daniel-san."
The road to mastery is never easy, but at least it exists. In the heart of many is the desire to master a craft, a skill, a song, a hobby, a profession, a direction. How does one move from a hopeless starting point to an excellent path? More than anything, believe that you can do it. Whether your desire is to be a prolific writer, outstanding speaker, the best educator - all you have to do is to believe that you can be that. And then start.
Harv Eker is indeed accurate when he immortalized the line "every master was once a disaster." No one starts at the point of excellence. Everything that is worth mastering has first been learned painfully. Despite the desire to be the best in a certain endeavor, regardless of the motivation one has, or even the confidence he gets from supportive individuals, he will usually struggle in the beginning.
Associate professor Anne Mangen at the University of Stavanger's Reading Centre asks if something is lost in switching from book to computer screen, and from pen to keyboard.
We've all heard it before; actions speak louder than words. It's because of this phrase that many people have started studying body language as a science and an art. The uses can be extensive from corporate meetings to picking up girls in a club. What's amazing is even if you're not drop-dead gorgeous or the C.E.O. of a multinational company, the right body language can be your golden ticket to looking confident. So let's discuss the key signs of body language that can unlock your hidden potential.
After all, the pen is more profitable than the sword.
1. Always have the reader in mind. Plan your composition and presentation according to what will be pleasing and relevant to the reader. The reader's concern and perspective is your North star in writing.
2. Know the rules of the game. Be polite and professional. Be sure to give sincere compliments and non-offensive observations if you have to. Also, be friendly without over-fraternizing. Your written expressions should be conversational, but remember that you are having a conversation with a client, not a childhood chum.
While most of us worry about how we look and act in front of other people, nothing beats the saying "be yourself". We've heard it a thousand times and this advice has been used for just about anything. The more casual questions would include: What should I wear to the party tonight? How should I approach my crush? and What will the popular kids think of me?
Even for corporate scenarios "be yourself" has become the all-around solution to: How can I impress my boss? What's the best way to close a client? and Is there a short-cut to delivering a great presentation?
While it's safe to say this advice was meant to do more good than harm, its vagueness makes it difficult to grasp the concept of being yourself. In a speech it's always important to share yourself instead of pretending to be a radio announcer. People who pretend to be someone else are called posers.
The most interesting teachers have mastered creativity. What can we learn from the best educators who have made a difference in our life as students?
First of all, let us establish that your being new or seasoned in your teaching career does not necessarily equate to your mastery of this very important skill. Therefore, there is great hope for those who are just starting and still some fresh techniques to learn for those who have been teaching for years.
Most seasoned speakers prepare themselves through practice and careful preparation whereas novice speakers believe their natural talent and ability is enough to get them through the presentation. NEVER wing your presentation. This is because no matter how good you are, your natural tendencies will get the best of you. So here's a list of the top 5 worst habits unprepared speakers make in their speech.