In the Beginning

It's always best to begin at the beginning....
I'm creating this blog as a means to put some of my thoughts and ideas into words and actions, for myself and for others who will come to read this. I am passionate about great interpersonal skills in business, whether they will be used in sales, customer service, managing others or simply managing your relationship with the guy in the next cubicle.

...and of course it's always easier to talk about them than to actually use them. One of my biggest issues with online courses is that they are great for learning about a skill but few of them are able to tell how well the person taking the course will be able use the skill appropriately. I have a Masters degree in Management and Leadership. It doesn't make me a great leader, it just means I know what to look for in great leaders. Reading and absorbing are very different from practicing and doing.

... in addition, it can be very difficult for people to use certain interpersonal skill sets. It may take us out of our comfort zones, force us to handle issues we may find distasteful or unpleasant. One of the more difficult duties I've had as a front line manager in a call center was to gently (very gently ;0 ) tell people about offensive body odors or personal habits. I did it, though. In the end, being straight with someone is a kindness, providing we remember to treat others with respect and dignity, always remembering that we are dealing with fellow human beings who are deserving of our support.

So, I'm passionate about interpersonal skills, I'm passionate about treating people with respect and dignity and I'm passionate about getting results and being successful. Let's see where this blog takes us...