My name is Neil and my friend and former coworker Laura is an incredible writer. If your organization needs a marketing communications expert—full-time or freelance—get in touch with her!
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Does Laura know about this?
Yes, but she's not responsible for any of the words and errors on the site--those are all mine.
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—Right Said Fred, “I’m Too Sexy” / Carly Simon, “You’re So Vain”
#11: Because You Want Someone to Give It to You Straight
If you can’t identify and diagnose problems, it’s pretty difficult to solve them—even if the solutions are fairly straightforward. That’s why it’s good to have people on your team that have the courage to be honest about things that can be uncomfortable to discuss. And that have the tact* to get their points across in a constructive fashion.
Laura knows how to be direct without putting off her colleagues. The songs above actually do a great job of showing Laura’s personality in this regard. A few months ago, the folks in the office put together a list of music where each person picked a song that responded in some way to a song they were given. The person before Laura picked “I’m Too Sexy” and she responded with “You’re So Vain.” That combination of directness and humor really helps Laura communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and with clients.
If you want someone who cares enough about you to tell you even uncomfortable truths, check out Laura’s LinkedIn profile, download her portfolio (PDF) and e-mail 32reasons@gmail.com.
* Don’t get the wrong idea. Laura’s not going to pull a Harry Meyer on you.
