Small talk can equal big opportunities in life and work
Melissa Coleman
Issue date: 9/28/06 Section: News
- Page 1 of 1
Have you ever heard the familiar saying, "talk is cheap?" Well, according to Stanford researchers, it's actually worth a huge amount.
Stanford University School of Business recently conducted a study in which they followed a group of MBA graduates 10 years after they had graduated. What they found may be surprising.
The graduates'measure of success was not in what school they obtained their degree from or their overall grades. Instead, their success came from their ability to make small talk and speak assertively in the business world.
In an environment where connections are the key to obtaining a career, being able to speak comfortably and confidently is essential. The business world is full of people competing for the same position and being able to speak well, in both one-on-one conversations and group presentations, might be the difference between you getting the job or your colleague down the hall.
Fortunately, for those who quiver at the thought of giving a speech or hyperventilate at a handshake with the boss, NDNU can offer some assistance. Two courses currently being offered this semester to help improve on public speaking is Oral Communication with Dr. Robert Ferrera and Persuasion and Presentation with Peter Young.
Both classes aim to improve and enhance public speaking skills to be used later on in future careers.
Pedro Cayetano, a senior enrolled in Young's Persuasion and Presentation, said, "I am not as eloquent as others when it comes to public speaking. I believe all the classes I have taken so far are important to honing and preparing me to speak comfortably in the business world."
Pedro also gave special mention to Don Campodonico and Young for building his self-esteem and confidence during his time at NDNU.
An important part of becoming comfortable when talking with authority or in front of a large group is practice. Whether it is in one of NDNU's classes or in front of a mirror at home, practicing and preparation are your best defenses against nervousness that can accompany public speaking.
And this last bit of advice comes from Susan RoAne, a professional speaker known as the "Mingling Maven." When speaking in the business environment, just remember one thing: "Be bright. Be brief. Be gone."
Stanford University School of Business recently conducted a study in which they followed a group of MBA graduates 10 years after they had graduated. What they found may be surprising.
The graduates'measure of success was not in what school they obtained their degree from or their overall grades. Instead, their success came from their ability to make small talk and speak assertively in the business world.
In an environment where connections are the key to obtaining a career, being able to speak comfortably and confidently is essential. The business world is full of people competing for the same position and being able to speak well, in both one-on-one conversations and group presentations, might be the difference between you getting the job or your colleague down the hall.
Fortunately, for those who quiver at the thought of giving a speech or hyperventilate at a handshake with the boss, NDNU can offer some assistance. Two courses currently being offered this semester to help improve on public speaking is Oral Communication with Dr. Robert Ferrera and Persuasion and Presentation with Peter Young.
Both classes aim to improve and enhance public speaking skills to be used later on in future careers.
Pedro Cayetano, a senior enrolled in Young's Persuasion and Presentation, said, "I am not as eloquent as others when it comes to public speaking. I believe all the classes I have taken so far are important to honing and preparing me to speak comfortably in the business world."
Pedro also gave special mention to Don Campodonico and Young for building his self-esteem and confidence during his time at NDNU.
An important part of becoming comfortable when talking with authority or in front of a large group is practice. Whether it is in one of NDNU's classes or in front of a mirror at home, practicing and preparation are your best defenses against nervousness that can accompany public speaking.
And this last bit of advice comes from Susan RoAne, a professional speaker known as the "Mingling Maven." When speaking in the business environment, just remember one thing: "Be bright. Be brief. Be gone."
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