Zoe Training & Speaking Blog

by Zoe Training staff

Have you ever had the feeling that what someone is saying is not what they mean? Is this just intuition, or are you noticing micro-expressions? What are you saying to people by the way you use your hands, position your body, and move your eyes? Anna Conrad, an expert in organizational effectiveness and leadership development, answers these questions and more in her highly interactive Body Language workshop, and helps participants explore the true meaning behind their words and the people with whom they communicate. Anna explains in our latest Zoe interview why this is her favorite training topic, and she also shares some important wisdom she’s gathered along the way.

What’s your favorite topic(s) to present on? Why?

I love Body Language because this is something that everyone is interested in, and no matter who you are or what you do, this is a topic that affects every relationship and every area of your life.

What’s the most unusual location (or circumstances) you’ve presented in?

I was hired by a large government agency to facilitate a communications workshop.  When we arrived at the facilities (which was a historic mansion), it turns out that the session was to occur in two rooms at the same time, connected by a door.  I had to facilitate the session standing in the doorway – a very difficult thing to do since my style is not lecture but interaction.  It worked out very well, and they asked me to facilitate three more sessions.  I agreed, but only on the condition that we could switch locations.

What are some things that surprise you or inspire you about your interactions with clients/participants?

I always learn something from my participants.  Whether it is another way to look at the topic or a way to improve my skills, I always look forward to gaining insight.

What are your most popular presentation topics?

• Body Language
• Team Effectiveness sessions
• Communication Skills
• Leadership Styles
• Conflict
• Change

Three words that describe your presentation style:

Engaging; down to earth; insightful.

Do you have a favorite quote? What/why?

1.  “Never doubt that a small group of people can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.“  I love this quote from Margaret Mead because it is true for organizations who desire a culture change.  All it takes is one or two thought leaders to inspire others an pave the way before changes start occurring.

2.  “He who has nothing to die for is not fit to live.“  by MLK, Jr. I love this quote because it ignites passion in people, or it gives people a chance to remember what they used to have passion about.