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Yesterday I received my annual notice from Fortune to renew my magazine subscription for the upcoming year. Among the offers and advertisements they included a bookmark which incorporated a quick few tips on improving your business skills. Though they may seem oversimplified, I thought there was some value in the concepts and figured I’d pass them along. My question to you is, What would you add to the list? 

Compliments of Fortune:
Improving these skills can have a big impact on your career.

1. Public Speaking
 Conquer fear with a game plan.

• Podiums disconnect you from your audience. Grab the mic and wander the stage.
• Eye contact is your friend. Looking at people one by one shrinks the room.
• Questions. If you’re stumped, talk about your team: “We’re lucky to have an expert on that. I’ll get you in touch with him later.”

2. Negotiating Skills
 Using the right phrase matters.

• How did you come up with that number? Opens a window to the other sides thoughts.
• Let me check with my wife. Or husband, or boss. Stops you from saying yes prematurely.
• If things change, give me a call. Put the burden on them.

3. Memory Skills
 Never confuse Don with John again.

• Introduce yourself first so you can focus on the other person.
• Connect the name to your brain. When you meet a guy named Bill, think of other Bills you know.
• Use the name three times. Once to confirm you have the name right, then in mid-conversation, and again when you say goodbye.