[Spoiler Alert] This email trick will rescue your reader

May 12, 2016 | BRIEF

Reading Time: 3 minutesEver notice how many of your colleagues write emails like they’re telling a story, saving the ending for last? That works well in books or movies, but not in business. We want to be surprised by a movie’s ending, but we really need...

“BRIEF” Named to Special Operations Command’s Reading List

May 5, 2016 | BRIEF

Reading Time: 2 minutesA few years ago I wrote a book called “BRIEF” to help our military’s elite special operations forces communicate clearly and concisely. They needed proven techniques to be more efficient and effective and they were eager to start communicating...

6 Tips to Stay Calm Under Pressure

Mar 9, 2016 | Leadership

Reading Time: 3 minutesA leader’s days are pretty much filled with putting out fires. When you solve one problem, another one comes up. This can go on and on for days and suddenly your easy-to-manage task list becomes overwhelming and unbearable. Sometimes it looks...

Three Reasons Why Mixed Messaging Derails Strategy

Feb 23, 2016 | Leadership

Reading Time: 2 minutesAt decisive moments, an organization’s senior leadership team can mysteriously and unknowingly get misaligned. What they are thinking, saying and doing get out of whack. In many cases, the mixed messaging is often the culprit. Not only are...

Happy Hour Etiquette When You’re the Boss

Feb 10, 2016 | Leadership

Reading Time: 2 minutesWe’ve all been there: Everyone in the office is going out for happy hour and they’ve invited you because, well, you’re the boss (and they might even be hoping you’ll pick up the check). Your mind automatically asks the following questions:...