Author: spenserl

How to Give Feedback That Builds Up, Not Breaks Down

Giving feedback at work is never easy, but it can be better.   That’s the message behind The Civil Feedback Toolkit: Speak Up, Build Up, a recent CIRAS virtual event featuring speaker Mike Wagner. The session helped leaders and employees alike develop tools for providing feedback in a way that is direct, respectful, and constructive. … Continue reading How to Give Feedback That Builds Up, Not Breaks Down

Artificial Intelligence: Building Better Outputs – Prompt & Train AI for Impact

Artificial Intelligence can be a powerful tool—if used intentionally to supplement our own strengths in complex thinking, intuition, and creativity. To get the best results, Rachel Holmes, a recent graduate from Iowa State University studying generative AI in business communications, recommends that individuals focus on two key areas to create truly valuable experiences: advanced prompting … Continue reading Artificial Intelligence: Building Better Outputs – Prompt & Train AI for Impact

Safer, Smarter Construction: CIRAS and EDA Mini Grants at Work

Two recent projects, funded by CIRAS and EDA mini grants, are helping Iowa construction companies explore practical applications of digital innovation. With the help of Iowa State University faculty, these efforts aim to reduce risk, improve efficiency, and make job sites safer. Digital As-Builts – Software & Hardware Basics Led by Dr. Behrouz Shafei, this … Continue reading Safer, Smarter Construction: CIRAS and EDA Mini Grants at Work

Handling Sales Objections: A Smarter Approach

Sales objections are a normal (and valuable) part of the sales process. They show that your customer is still engaged. Instead of trying to “overcome” objections, focus on working through them to build a stronger relationship with your prospective clients. Follow this five-step approach: Listen fully without interrupting. Acknowledge the concern genuinely. Ask clarifying questions … Continue reading Handling Sales Objections: A Smarter Approach

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