_When writing an e mail, delivering a speech or simply engaging in a conversation, notice how many times you say the word I. Try to eliminate the word I as much as possible. Studies show that people like hearing the word you - second only to hearing their own name. When someone hears or reads  the word I too often, they mentally check out of the conversation. So make a conscious effort to structure your conversation and writings to be more about the benefits to the other person and less about your agenda.

_A friend recently asked advice on what to do for a staff member who was retiring after many years of service. I have found that people really like to know that the time they spent working for a company meant something, that because they were there it made a difference, that their commitment and hard work didn't go unnoticed.

People love to have a nice brief letter from the president of the company telling them how much they meant. Have the letter framed so that they can display it for their family to see. Read it to them at the lunch - people love recognition and it sends the message to others in the organization that  longevity and hard work are valued.