7 Tips to Increase Your Visibility to Get Ahead

By Joanne Blake | Networking

When I asked an aspiring leader what she was doing to advance her career, her response floored me.

I was coaching a client; an accountant in her mid-30’s who is brilliant at the technical part of her job. More than anything she would like to be a manager and eventually a partner in her firm. But she sees others getting promoted ahead of her in spite of her talent. So I asked her, “What you are doing to increase your visibility and be seen as a leader?” Her response floored me.Continue reading

Imposter Syndrome Advice – Why We Feel Like Frauds.

By Joanne Blake | Etiquette & Protocol , Image & Dress

Do you ever feel like an imposter? What you can do about it.

Some of my executive coaching clients share that they feel like they’re over their heads in their roles as professionals and leaders; that sooner or later someone is going to discover that they are imposters. Many are accomplished women who have achieved incredible success in their careers, and are often the only woman sitting at the boardroom table. They tend toContinue reading

Writing Thank You Notes – Tips for You and Your Brand

By Joanne Blake | Etiquette & Manners , Networking & Dining

The Joy of Thank You Notes

I read an inspiring article, How a Simple Thank You Can Make a Difference in The Globe and Mail written by Sharon Kofed and it made me smile. Sharon teaches business English to international students. Because of the profound impact of personal notes she’s sent, she decided to incorporate the art of writing thank you notes into her class.Continue reading

Letters From The Lost – My Book Club Surprise

By Joanne Blake | Books , Conversation Topics

Travel and Book Club Coincidences

We often share travel and books as some of our favorite topics for conversation when networking. This summer by strange coincidence I combined the two. It all started by joining a book club.

Since I seem to gravitate towards the same types of books, I thought it would expand my reading horizons. So earlier this year I took the plunge at my local Edmonton public library where they even provide a librarian as book club host. I really enjoyed the new books and discussions.Continue reading

How to Turn a Negative into Positive Customer Service

By Joanne Blake | Etiquette & Manners

Delta Airlines turns a problem into an opportunity to strengthen customer relationships

In his book The Virgin Way, Everything I Know About Leadership, Richard Branson talks about the importance of turning a negative into a positive customer service experience.
“When a problem is handled quickly and effectively it will create more long-term customer loyalty than if the original service was delivered in a satisfactory manner.”

Continue reading