The "blahs" have settled in. It is, dangerously, becoming business as usual - both personally and professionally. Think you've got a superior product, or possess a unique talent no one else can match? Don't kid yourself! Remember the "BIG THREE."

"A plan is valid only until your opponent makes the first move."
-Prussian Field Marshall Von Moltke

By now, your competitors have made their first tactical moves of the year. Hopefully these are external competitors, other organizations with which we compete for a bigger and better share of the market. But let's be realistic - competitors often occupy the third office down. You know, the guy or gal that regularly smiles and winks at you on the elevator. More careers have been wrecked by internal skullduggery than all external factors combined.

Do you have a Board of Trustees, Advisory Committee, Medical Staff, Faculty or other organization where COMMUNICATION, TRUST and LEADERSHIP are necessary for optimal SUCCESS? Let Twyman help you get there. Check out our web site at www.twymantowery.com and give us a call.

THIS MONTH'S SPEAKER'S TIP: As a fledgling speaker I would accept almost any assignment and then cram to learn what the heck I was supposed to talk about. MISTAKE! Never, never, never do this. You are speaking to professionals and if you are faking it they will figure you out in a heartbeat. Politely turn the opportunity down and suggest what you ARE qualified to speak about - leaving the educated decision up to them! Either way, you will gain their respect and you will also enjoy a sigh of personal relief.