Cultural complexity in the South African business has created confusion about accepted codes of conduct and interpersonal relationships.  Varying customs, language and social differences can make interaction in the workplace daunting.  Many consider courtesy as old fashioned, but are increasingly frustrated with rudeness or social ineptness amongst employees, customers and co-workers.  Work ethic, integrity and ambition are essential factors in achieving professional success.  Seize the competitive advantage: balance good manners and courtesy in the workplace.

Reading is processed in the brain.  The eye operates by photographing an object, transmitting this information to the brain where it is registered and stored . . . so it is the brain that reads – using the eyes as its lenses.  The brain simply does not think at its best in a linear, sequential format.  The brain thinks in pictures, images and symbols.  By processing written information in a word by word manner, the brain’s ability to link, contextualise and recall information is severely hampered. Effective Reading for Business addresses reading as a critical competency, empowering you to achieve business success.

So much time is spent in meetings, handling interruptions and other ad-hoc activities that when it comes to getting real work done there is no time.  We must be able to manage multiple tasks and get more work done in less time.

Business documents are the personality of any organisation.  We need to ensure that we are delivering the message to our target audience using a friendly tone, genuine enthusiasm and energy. Writing business documents can prove challenging in today’s business environment.  Being aware of the most acceptable Business English principles will ensure that all documents are written competently and sensitively.  Become confident and professional with effective and practical writing skills.

Intelligence and skills are vital elements to achieve success in the workplace; however, the ability to interact and manage relationships is what sets us apart as successful individuals and teams.

Excellent customer service never happens overnight.  Often policies and procedures are designed with the company in mind, not the customer.  Customer service is not a departments; it is the attitude of the entire organisation.  The service environment is one of constant change, expansion of knowledge and expertise.  Change is no longer an option, but an imperative to remain competitive.

Good presenting is about entertaining and conveying information.  Become a successful presenter . . . be prepared, rehearsed, enthusiastic, eloquent and ready to persuade.  Nothing takes the place of a well rehearsed presentation that expresses your ideas and concepts in a convincing and practical way. 

Relationships built on trust are the key to selling in the twenty first century.  A consistent daily work habit, planning and goal setting are the foundations for successful and superior performance.