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From Texts to Talks
Plus: Five Breakthroughs In 2024 + A game of rhetoric
🎙️ Did You Know? On this day in 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower gave his State of the Union Address, talking about liberty, welfare, and progress.
Eisenhower's speech focused on leadership and unity, showing that powerful words can inspire action around the world. Whether talking to a nation or a room full of colleagues, the key is to speak clearly and with purpose. Great communication shapes history…
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Lost in Translation
When Convenience Becomes a Challenge
Balance Tech and Face-to-Face.
We're always texting, DMing, or emailing, even when it's not for personal stuff. A lot of jobs these days actually expect you to be online and messaging 24/7. And while it's true that a lot of meetings can just be an email (please and thank you!), these tools might also be holding you back.
Digital communication has changed the world. It's fast, efficient, and helps you stay connected. But there are some downsides to relying on it too much. Studies show that 86% of workplace failures are due to poor communication, often caused by relying too much on digital channels.
The following are our honest suggestions, no affiliate links or kickbacks apply.
Erosion of Interpersonal Skills
When your main communication happens behind a screen, it’s harder to pick up on non-verbal cues like tone and body language. Unfortunately, the answer to these problems isn't as simple as "just talk to people." Here are some of RoadMap's best tips for improving your communication skills:
➡️ Active listening
Next time you're in a meeting, listen without interrupting. Then summarize what you heard to confirm you got it.
➡️ Boost Non-Verbal Skills
Practice making eye contact, using facial expressions, and having good posture when you're talking to someone face-to-face. Try mirroring someone whose style you really like!
➡️ Set boundaries for your screen time
Schedule tech-free blocks during your day, especially when you're collaborating in person.
Keep in mind that communication isn't a solo act. Try suggesting group activities that encourage trust and enhance team communication, like role-playing.
Hot Off the Press!
Technology that shapes our future.
Alex Knapp
Einstein's fame may stem from his revolutionary Theory of Relativity, but his Nobel Prize-winning discovery of the photoelectric effect laid the foundation for modern technologies like solar panels and digital cameras. This is a reminder that today’s groundbreaking innovations often stem from years of smaller, incremental advancements.
In 2024, several such breakthroughs have emerged:
DNA Computing: Progress toward powerful, data-efficient DNA-based computers.
Space Drug Manufacturing: HIV drugs produced in microgravity with superior quality.
Spliceosome Mapping: Cellular editing insights unlocking new disease treatments.
Coal to Graphite: Energy-efficient methods for EV battery materials.
Spider Silk Adhesive: Versatile, silk-based material with industrial potential.
These developments exemplify science’s steady march toward transformative solutions.
Curated Clicks
From fear to skill.
Delivering a compelling presentation is no small feat. Even seasoned professionals can struggle to refine their delivery, let alone those just starting to build their storytelling confidence. If you've ever felt unsure about how to structure or practice your speech, maybe Rhetoric can help.
Rhetoric makes public speaking a lot of fun and super interactive. You get to tackle challenges by delivering short speeches based on the squares you land on, with themes that fit different situations like Classic, Family, or Business. It’s a blast for folks of all ages.
Plus, there’s a built-in timer to keep your speeches on point, and you can choose from multiple languages, including Spanish, French, and German. It’s a great way to boost your confidence and communication skills while having a good time!
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