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October 5, 2023

Japan in my heart

This is the second time in the last ten years that I have had the opportunity to return to Japan. People frequently think of Japan when they travel there, with spring being the colorful Cherry Blossom Festival, autumn being filled with red and yellow leaves, and winter being the snow-capped Mount Fuji. I visited Japan in mid-September when the weather was hot and the maple leaves were still green. Although the trip was just 4 days and 4 nights long, it was quite stunning in terms of witnessing firsthand Japanese culture and people at the places as well as listening to valuable sharing from the tour guides that still remained in my mind.

- Japan with an aging population

The first thing you notice when you arrive at the airport is a large number of older folks doing various jobs. Even the waiters at restaurants are over 50 years old. Despite their advanced age, they move with grace and agility. This impression makes me feel that Japan has an older population, but they never stop working and are always respected at work. Something to be admired and difficult to find in other countries.

- Japanese people are really enthusiastic about supporting others

Many visitors to Japan are intimidated by the language barrier because the majority of Japanese people do not speak English. But don't be concerned.

One of the customs of Japanese people is to always carry a notebook and pen with them in case they need to explain something to someone who does not speak their language.

Japanese are willing to stop for a lengthy time if you don't know the way or need to ask for directions. When you don't know where you are or need directions, they are willing to stop for a long time to look at a map and show you the way or lead you, which takes a long time but is still very patient, happy, and friendly.

- Tokyo by night

When the quiet streets fall into darkness, the crossroad in Tokyo is always crowded with passengers. There are many high-end fashion stores, karaoke, restaurants... The streets here are always crowded, "congested" with a large number of people walking. At night, the streets are decorated with bright, sparkling lights.

Going there, I saw firsthand the dynamic lifestyle of young people who desire to break out of the standards and restrictions that people often think about Japanese.

Young individuals in this city dye their hair three or four different colors on their heads. Men and women wore anime-style clothing with numerous contrasting colors, their steps hurriedly following the flow of people.

In the eyes of many people, Tokyo is always bustling and rushing. But I believe that every person who comes to Tokyo can find a peaceful corner in their own soul. And that is also what creates the attractiveness and appeal of Japan to all visitors, especially to me.

- The hurried night train

When they board the last train of the day, many Japanese say they want to know what life is like outside of "office life" in Japan. Everyone was fatigued; some had taken a nap before arriving at the stop, while others were engrossed in their iPhones, reading news or surfing Line, Twitter, etc... They seldom spoke to the folks around them. Life in Japan seems hard and stressful to me. The signs of fatigue are obvious on the faces of officers after a long working day.

These are only a few of my observations and sentiments from this journey. By this trip, Japan reminds a foreigner like myself of a distinct feature, a full contrast to other cultures.

Despite the fact that the schedule was only four days in Tokyo, there are many notable places in Japan that I have yet to visit. That, however, is a positive thing because it will encourage me to come back again.

***Last but not least, thank you to IVC - my beloved company - for giving me a fantastic and memorable trip full of new experiences. It made me feel more inspired to work hard and contribute to the Company's growth.

Japan, see you soon!

(*The blog is based on the personal perspective and experience of one of the training trip participants in Japan.)

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September 28, 2023

SIMPLE TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL FOCUS

The ability to concentrate helps us grasp and stay focused on important work, solve complex problems, and ensure that we complete tasks successfully. Therefore, it plays an extremely important role in determining the success or failure of a process, and that is the key factor between completing tasks effectively and achieving goals or facing difficulties and failure.

We often face various distractions and pressures from the surrounding environment in our daily lives and workplaces. Even in quiet moments, getting distracted really is as easy as turning your hand.

Have you ever experienced the challenge of trying to concentrate on something important, then constantly interrupted by messages, phone calls, email notifications, or numerous things around you? When you return to your primary task, you may struggle to recall where you left off and waste valuable time in the process. Have you encountered such a situation before?

So here are some simple suggestions and tips to help you enhance your mental focus and concentration.

1. Eliminating Distractions

In the workplace, distractions frequently come from various digital sources such as emails, social media and and mobile phones being among the most common culprits. Therefore, for tasks unrelated to the internet, consider using traditional tools like paper and pen. Put your phone on silent mode and check emails periodically, for example, once an hour, and limit your time on social media.

2. Limiting Your Time

The resources for focus are limited in each person, so we need to allocate them wisely. You can do this by setting specific timeframes for tasks rather than working on them until finished. Also, avoid taking on too many tasks at once, instead, you can focus all your attention on one thing at a time. Limiting your time not only helps you concentrate better but also allows you to manage your time more effectively.

3. Control Unrelated Thoughts

What should you do when a sudden thought or idea pops into your head? When a random thought or idea unexpectedly enters your mind, it can be quite disruptive to your focus. If you have no desire or intention to act on that thought, just gently bring your attention back to the task at hand. You may need to refocus several times, but remember it is part of the process, with practice, you will find that it becomes easier to redirect your attention.

4. Taking a Short Break

Have you ever attempted to maintain your concentration on the same thing for a long time? After a while, your ability to concentrate will decrease and it will become increasingly difficult for you to focus your mental energy on your work. Not only that, but your overall productivity also suffers as well. So the next time you are dealing with a prolonged task, make sure to give your mind a little break.

5. Healthy Lifestyle

When you prioritize a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, you are providing your body and your mind with the resources they need to function optimally. This not only boosts your ability to concentrate but also enhances your overall quality of life.

Concentration is something that needs to be practiced every day. Think of focus as a mental muscle, because the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Once you have taught your brain how to act and create a habit, you will not have to spend as much effort the next time. If you apply the tips shared in this article, your concentration will definitely improve significantly.

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August 17, 2023

How to use effective communication skills at work

Many of us feel "already known" when it comes to communication abilities and some of us even find it annoying that everyone insists on honing them. Your life may even change if you know how to improve your communication abilities.

We need to be mindful of the following things in order to effectively communicate and behave in daily life, at work, and in society:

Explain the goal of communication.

You must consider how well you are communicating in situations like work, meetings, and business discussions before deciding on your goal.

Of course, casual talk and open conversations outside of work allow you to engage with coworkers without having to take your "purpose" too seriously, depending on the amount of intimacy.

Clear and understandable

The use of simple, intelligible language not only demonstrates your self-assurance but also your professionalism in speaking. Additionally, sentences with filler words like "ah, um" need to be entirely avoided. Always communicate clearly when speaking with others, know when to pause so that others can comprehend what you mean, and take breaks to re-energize yourself.

In addition, you should utilize various voices and words in each unique circumstance, preferably in the most comprehensible manner. Even when speaking Vietnamese, you need to watch your grammar and avoid using too many technical terms.

Communicate with clarity and focus on the facts you wish to get across.

Many people operate in a "non-stop" manner.

Communicate with clarity and focus on the facts you wish to get across.

Many people communicate in a "non-stop" manner, speaking whatever they feel without considering whether others will agree with them or find it amusing. Talking excessively does not imply that you are well-educated. Instead, it will demonstrate how people don't share and even impose.

The goal of communication is to communicate information while two parties express shared issues and ideas. Therefore, if one side only fidgets with his thoughts, the other party will undoubtedly become bored, and there won't be much more conversation.

Recognize signals and modify communication to establish a connection.

As was already established, the goal of every conversation and form of communication is to help individuals understand one another and find common ground. Finding a partner with whom you can share everything in life and who truly understands you would be wonderful. This underlines once more how crucial listening abilities are.

In order to respond in the most appropriate way, it's important to listen carefully so that you can truly understand what the other person is saying as well as to understand and offer suggestions.

***Final thoughts:

Good communication in a professional environment is not just about saying "good words" to please the people around you. An employee with great communication skills is one who can find a way of interacting, receiving, and exchanging information with different people effectively. If you aim to develop communication skills to quickly integrate into the professional working environment and take new steps in your career, let’s practice the above tips and see how they will change your life.

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July 28, 2023

The Power of Setting Goals

Do you ever feel like you're working hard but not making any real progress? Are you unsure about how to move forward and achieve more in your life and career? So setting goals can be the key you're looking for.

According to W. Clement Stone, “The starting point of all achievement is the definiteness of purpose”. This means that you must first have a clear understanding of your goals and dreams to achieve anything meaningful

In this article, we will explore the significance and value of goal setting, as well as the numerous benefits it can bring. So let’s discover the power of effective goal-setting to see how it can positively impact your life.

Why is goal setting important?

How frequently do you set your goals? We all understand the significance of goal setting, but sometimes we underestimate its true importance in our life.

Setting goals will help you guide your focus and sustain momentum in life. Moreover, goal-setting brings numerous benefits both to individual employees and the organization. It gives you direction and motivation, helping you make better choices and reach your goals faster. Without clear goals, staying on track can be quite challenging.

So, take the time to define your goals, visualize your dreams and set yourself on a purposeful journey toward a brighter future. The goals you set will provide you with direction and keep you focused on reaching your desired destination.

How Can Goal Setting Improve Performance?

Setting goals at work can have a great impact on both individual and organizational performance. Research has proven that people who set goals obtain 20–25% improvement in their work performance! Moreover, they not only improve their performance but also gain more self-confidence, reduce stress, and feel happier and more effective in their workplace.

When you set goals at work, you are taking an important step toward improving your performance and achieving success.

By setting ambitious yet achievable targets, you challenge yourself to stretch beyond your comfort zone and continuously strive for improvement

How to use goal-setting in the workplace?

Setting goals at work can provide you with a success road map. So how do you put goal-setting into practice? Here are four tips to help you set your professional goals.

1. Have a passion

It’s important to define what exactly you’re trying to achieve and be passionate about your goals. When you are genuinely passionate about your goals, you are more likely to stay committed and dedicated throughout the journey.

As you pursue your goals with enthusiasm and focus on meaningful goals, you will experience a deeper sense of satisfaction and joy, making your journey to success more rewarding and bringing you closer to your dreams.

2. Share with team members

Remember collaboration and open communication are the key to achieving success. It’s important that every one of your team should feel they can speak openly and contribute their ideas on setting goals.

During team meetings, you can share your vision for the goals and actively ask for feedback from everyone. So write down each team member’s opinions during the goal-setting process. By having everyone's input, you can achieve goals more effectively.

3. Make necessary adjustments

Sometimes, you might encounter situations where things aren't working as planned. Despite our best efforts and meticulous planning, there can be unforeseen challenges that disrupt the path to success.

In these cases, it's essential to stay flexible and be ready to adjust the goals accordingly. Being open to changes can lead to better outcomes and success in the long run.

Start setting goals

Effective goal-setting is a powerful tool that can help you turn your dreams and aspirations into reality. By setting clear and specific goals, you give yourself a roadmap to success, allowing you to stay motivated and focused on what’s important.

As you start working towards your goals, be prepared for challenges and obstacles that may come your way. So make sure to regularly track your progress to stay on course and make any needed adjustments as you go.

With the tips we've shared in this blog, you can set and achieve your goals confidently. So what are you waiting for? Start working on your goals today and see the amazing results of chasing your dreams! Take action now and make your aspirations a reality!

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July 4, 2023

Work Smarter Not Harder

More than 10 years working experience in my current company, I realized one thing: working hard does not mean being productive. If you have worked full time at a company and still need to take the work to home to complete unfinished tasks, or always spend a lot of hours to get it done but seem your productivity isn't improving, your problem is that you must find a way to work smarter.

You will be very productive if you know how to simplify all things, at that time you will find the shortest way to get it done. Successful people often focus their time on their main priorities and think about how to make things run as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips that may help you get the best performance at work.

1. Develop time management skills:

The reason I put this item in the first place is because it's really important.

One of the purposes of working smart is saving and managing time. Time is gold and silver for the smart employee. Therefore, good time management skills are a key factor to help a person practice smart working habits.

There are a few next tips that you should apply to know how to allocate time and get the job done as planned.

- Follow the 80:20 rule: 20% of the important tasks create 80% of the value. Spend 80% of your time on the important things you need to do.

- Eliminate distractions during your work

- Don't let urgent tasks interrupt the important tasks you're doing

- Create to-do lists and prioritize them

- Take advantage of reminders, scheduling etc…

2. Arrange and set priority for each task:

When receiving a new task or project, we often have too many thoughts about where to start and what to do.

And the result is we built an extremely to-do list and got confused which one should do first. It's a big limitation that prevents you from focusing on the main task because you haven't focused your energy on the tasks that are really important. Instead, we should practice keeping your to-do-lists closely by focusing only on the 3-5 most important things.

Prioritize the most important and urgent tasks, then move on to less important tasks. Adjusting this will make you feel less anxious. In addition, the important tasks you should do in the morning because if you leave them late, you will have less time to handle them effectively.

3. Don't handle too many tasks and "ask for help" when overloading

Do multi-task is not a smart choice. A smart employee never takes on too many things to do nothing properly.

If you are the manager/ leader, distribute the work equally to each person. If you are a subordinate, let’s communicate with the manager/leader about how you can handle the workload to avoid being overloaded, leading to poor performance.

4. Improve your own capacity

In order to work effectively, always pay attention to improving your knowledge and skills. Now we have a lot of tools such as websites, apps to help you to manage work and time more effectively. Sometimes we find that the working day is not effective because we spend too much time figuring out how to make a professional excel files, emails, edit power point etc… while you can self-study these skills on the internet or training center.

5. Adjust your attitude

You will be more productive if you have a “positive attitude”. With a “positive attitude” will always actively manage everything whenever they can. In addition, having a good attitude at work also helps you actively learn, plan, set standards for yourself, help you be responsible and always have the progress to work effectively.

Moreover, practicing a positive, progressive attitude will help you have a quick reaction when work or problems arise, and find a simple solution in most cases.

6. Communication

We are always aware that practicing communication and cooperation skills with people are very important. I believe that whether you are a manager or an employee, you have to work with other people. Then, having good communication skills will help you communicate in the most accurate way and avoid wasting time due to misunderstandings.

Besides, by your communication skills you will receive the best support from others to complete your work.

7. Reduce stress

Stress is the biggest enemy that can affect your performance. Stress has an impact on your physical, emotional, behavioral and even health, energy, and alertness for work. Therefore, practice proactively planning your next work, this way will help you somewhat achieve your expectations and reduce unnecessary stress and anxiety.

8. Do more of things that help you enjoy the most

Be honest that not everyone is lucky enough to do what we love for a living. Even if you chase your dreams, there will still be tasks you don't like doing. In that case, get other tasks done more quickly and spend more time doing what you are truly loving. You will feel like you are still fulfilling your responsibilities while being more inspired, challenged, and productive.

In conclusion:

You can choose to work hard or work smart, or even both. But you should keep in mind that only doing nothing really slows us down. If you're working hard but the results aren't working, try to find the best suitable way to work smarter.

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June 22, 2023

Training Trip in Japan #6 - Plum Blossom Season

(*The blog is based on the personal opinion and experience of one of the members participating in the training trip in Japan)

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I came back to Japan in early 2023 after 5 years to join the training trip on the occasion of IVC's 20th anniversary of establishment, and it was fortunate that I arrived during the plum blossom season.

The plum blossom season, also known as Ume season in Japan, typically starts in late February and lasts until early April. In Tokyo, the plum season usually peaks around mid-March.

I visited Yushima Tenjin Shrine which was decorated with many beautiful pink and white plum blossoms, and I enjoyed the delicate fragrance and scenery of the flowers.

Yushima Tenjin Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Bunkyo district of Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity of scholarship and learning, Sugawara no Michizane, who is revered as the patron of academics and students.

Upon entering the shrine, I was greeted by a large courtyard filled with plum blossom trees, which were in full bloom during my visit. The cherry blossoms created a beautiful scene, and I spent some time admiring the pink and white flowers that adorned the trees. As I walked further into the courtyard, I saw a large pond filled with koi fish, which added to the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.

In addition to enjoying the plum season, I also had the opportunity to attend the Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival), which featured traditional Japanese music, dance performances and food stalls.

In conclusion, my trip to Yushima Tenjin Shrine (especially, plum blossom festival) was a memorable experience that allowed me to learn more about the Japan’s tradition.

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June 16, 2023

What Is Your Life Motivation?

Have you ever felt like you just don't have the motivation to do anything in your life? Well, it's a pretty common feeling, especially when you're going through something tough or if you're just not feeling happy in your current situation. Everyone goes through periods of feeling unmotivated sometimes, so you are not alone.

In this article, we will explore what is life motivation, why it matters, and some steps to help you maintain and strengthen your motivation in your life.

What is Life Motivation?

Life motivation is a combination of various factors, including personal values, core drivers, and passions. It is an aspect of each person that defines their purpose and what they want to achieve in life. It can be intrinsic, where the motivation comes from within, or extrinsic, where it comes from external factors such as rewards, recognition, or pressure from others.

Does Life Motivation Matter?

Understanding your life motivation is critical for personal growth, success, and fulfillment. When you are motivated, you have a positive outlook on life, and you are more likely to persevere through difficult times. It helps you to align your actions with your values and beliefs.

How to maintain and strengthen your motivation in your life?

Setting your goals and having a plan can assist you in being organized and focused. It can also help you track your progress and make changes as necessary.

1. Create a SMART goals

Creating SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals and objectives helps you stay focused and motivated.

2. Have a plan to achieve your goals

Have a plan to achieve your goals and break down your goals into smaller, easier-to-achieve activities. This will make progress and feeling accomplished easier. Create a to-do list to keep yourself organized and on track. This can help reduce stress and keep you focused.

3. Visualize your future success

Imagine yourself accomplishing your goals and how it will feel. This can help you stay motivated and focused on your end goal.

4. Celebrate small wins:

Celebrate every small achievement that takes you closer to your goal. Celebrating small wins can boost your confidence and motivation.

5. Creating a support network

Having a support network can help you stay motivated by providing inspiration, encouragement, accountability, and a sense of community. This can include family and friends, mentors, or support groups. Do not hesitate to communicate your needs and ask for help when you need it.

6. Surround yourself with positive people:

Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Being around positive people can help you stay motivated and inspired.

7. Seek professional help when necessary

If you are struggling with motivation or facing significant challenges, seek professional help. This might include therapy, coaching, or other forms of support. Remember that it is okay to ask for help.

8. Take breaks when needed

It is important to take breaks when you need them. Taking a break can help you to recharge your batteries, gain a fresh perspective, and avoid burnout. Make time for self-care activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies. This can help reduce stress and increase motivation.

9. Evaluate your motivations sometimes

As your life changes, it is important to re-evaluate your motivations and goals to ensure that they still align with your values and desires. This might need to setting new goals or adjusting your priorities. Take time to reflect on what is important to you and adjust your motivations accordingly.

10. Adjust your goals to fit your motivations

As you re-evaluate your motivations, it is important to adjust your goals to fit your needs and desires. This might need setting new goals or redefining what success means to you. Remember that your motivations and priorities may shift over time and that it is important to adjust your goals accordingly.

In conclusion, life motivation is a key factor in achieving personal fulfillment and success. Remember that motivation is not a one-time event, but rather a lifelong journey. With commitment and endurance, we can stay motivated and achieve our goals.

ARTICLE

June 2, 2023

Training Trip in Japan #5 - The Dream Called "Japan"

(*The blog is based on the personal opinion and experience of one of the members participating in the training trip in Japan)

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My dream is to visit the beautiful countries all over the world, so I set up goals for myself, step by step, to fulfill my dream - go around the world. And one of the countries on my priority list that I must to visit is JAPAN!

And that day came sooner than my plan. At the end of 2022, I got great news from my company, it really made my dream come true - I would be going to Japan with my company!

I still remember how rushed and happy I was when I shared this good news with my beloved ones and how much my joyfulness spread to them!

Before the departure date, I was informed that the weather in Japan was very cold. But I thought it wasn't a problem at all for me “As long as I go to Japan, I can handle it all! Just come over to Japan!”

And you know? According to the immigration regulations at that time, I needed to complete the 3rd COVID-19 injection before coming to Japan, it was really a challenge for me due to my health. (* This regulation has been repealed since the end of April this year)

Because of Japan, I overcame the fear of the cold, and because of Japan, I was no longer afraid of the COVID injection. By all means, I have to go to Japan, because it's my dream!

That day has finally come! I was coming to you, Japan!

Japan welcomed us with a delightful chill! The cold weather in Japan was much more pleasant than I imagined - I really liked it!

And you know? Japan is an "obsession” for me! Since the day I returned to Vietnam from the Japan trip, Japan has obsessed me. Japan's images has appeared in my dream for four consecutive nights. The images of places where I visited, the new friends whom I met, the memorable moments with my colleagues, my teammates , even the fear of counting a bunch of coins before payment at the convenient shops… were re-enacted in my dreams.

That was the "obsession" about a beautiful and modern country. I will not forget the blooming plum blossom season, Tokyo Tower - the symbol of the modern in Japan, the streets without any garbage, the experience with the "genuine" washlet system and especially the Shinkansen because we have not yet tried it on.

People tell me that besides the place where I visited- Tokyo, there are many others beautiful places in Japan! But for me, the 4-day experience in Tokyo really made me satisfied and happy.

Until now, Japan has been an unforgettable "obsession" for me. Whenever we accidentally talk about Japan, or accidentally are given tubes of sweets and cakes made in Japan, the Japan’s nostalgia comes to me again.

Thank you, IVC - my company, for making my dream - coming to the beautiful country, Japan - come true and giving me more motivation to continue drawing my dreams, including the dream of returning to Japan as soon as possible.

ARTICLE

May 22, 2023

Some simple things that may help you improve your Presentations skill

Practicing, refining, and improving your presentation skills will not only make you more confident, but you will advance to success in your job more quickly. Great presentation skills is not only benefit your professional life but also essential life skills that you should use in a variety of situations. Here are some small tips that may help you to enhance your presentation:

Be well prepared before your presentation

Confidence and preparation make it easier to take the lead and drive the presentation as planned.

1. Use less text and more visuals in your presentation

Know what are key messages that we are going to share to the audiences and make it as condensate as possible.

Almost all of us have been with experience before: sitting in the meeting room and trying our best to stay interested and engaged with the presentation of someone. The presentation lacks of images , color, and all sense of creativity while containing a long-form paragraphs and an over-abundance of text. These types of presentations are horrible for two reasons:

- The first reason being that the minute you show the presentation on the screen, the listener will direct their attention away from you to begin reading and completely tune you out.

- The second reason is if your presentation skills are not strong, not only will your presentation be dull to listen to, but it will be boring to look at as well. You will quickly find out how easy it is to lose most of the attention when you create a lackluster presentation.

2. Keep the presentation as short as possible

Every single person’s time is valuable -especially at work, so do not waste the meeting time. Try to keep your presentation going as planned. Ensure that you are only sharing the most important information. All of the extra fluff will bore the listener and you will lose their attention very quickly.

It is a great idea to wrap up your meeting with key takeaways and action items. Doing so will ensure that no matter how quickly your meeting ends, your team understands their next steps. You can send out a quick, summarizing slide deck or an easy to read one-pager for their reference later.

3. Practices speaking in front of people

Practice always makes you become better.

It is important to remember that your stress is most likely caused by your unfamiliarity with the scenario, not by a lack of preparation. The more comfortable you are with taking the stage and having everyone’s attention on you, the less nervous you will get.

The best way to implement this practice is by starting from a small thing. Prepare a presentation for your friends, family, or closest teammate.

When you practice in front of others more regularly, you will feel more comfortable with the focus, allowing you to properly transmit your thoughts the next time it is your turn to speak in the meeting room.

Be connected to your audience always

1. Keep your eye contact with the listener

This is an obvious tip that will help you go a long way with the listener.

Remember that losing eye contact and looking everywhere but at the people that you are presenting to is a very common nervous behavior. Pay attention and make sure you have your eyes on at least one person.

2. Do not forget your body language

Smiling, hand gestures, eye contact, and a powerful stance all exude confidence.

If you don’t have strong body language and are showing physical signs of nervousness (ex. tapping, shaking, darting eyes, and many more), the listener will have a hard time focusing on what you’re presenting, the fact that you’re nervous and probably don’t know what you’re talking about as much as you say you do.

No matter how nervous you are, take a deep breath and take it easy.

3. Welcome questions and comments during your presentation

Be flexible throughout your presentation. Answer questions and respond to any comments from the participant. But the most important thing is to try to control and remind them to focus on the question that is related to your presentation only.

Also, take some time out at the start or your presentation to ask the listener some icebreaker questions and slowly transition into the more important stuff.

Taking this minute to talk through anything that the listener is thinking of is a good thing because it means they are engaged with you and really pay attention to your words. Doing so will also relax the format of your presentation, allowing you to feel more relaxed and confident as well.

Most people do not naturally have excellent presentation skills. That is something is learnt and practiced through time. As with most things in life, you must constantly try to improve your skills to get better and better.

I do hope that some of my sharing that I have experienced during my work will help you to improve your presentation skills. By doing so, you will find that presenting at your key meetings becomes easier and more exciting.

ARTICLE

May 17, 2023

Training Trip in Japan #4 - Japan In My Eyes

(*The blog is based on the personal opinion and experience of one of the members participating in the training trip in Japan)

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In this article, I would like to share my thoughts about Japan. In early 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Tokyo - Japan which was organized by my company on the occasion of IVC's 20th anniversary of establishment . This was the first time I came to the Land of Cherry Blossoms, so there were a lot of surprises, and I had a chance to experience some "culture shocks" there.

Tokyo's So Darn Clean

I have heard many people talk about cleanliness in Japan, but I was still very surprised when I saw it with my own eyes. Not only the streets but also the rivers are also so clean - no trash, no plastic bags, no dust, no bad smell… It is so clean that I think you don't need to worry about getting your clothes dirty while sitting on the street ^^. It's hard to find garbage on the streets, even though there were no garbage cans on the street, because the Japanese took their trash home. This is a habit, a rule, and also the tradition of the Japanese people.

Vending Machines Everywhere and Have Everything

In Tokyo, there are many vending machines and it is so easy to find them. You could buy anything there, from sushi to ramen or sandwiches, from hot coffee to cool water… The tour guide said that there are over 4 million vending machines around Japan, and there is approximately one vending machine per 100 meters. Normally, I could see two or three vending machines placed side by side. It's very simple to use them. I tried to buy a hot coffee, and it was not difficult to pay by coins. Besides paying in cash, vending machines also allow payment with Pay Pay, LINE Pay, Rakuten Pay, or a credit card. It's really convenient.

(Vending Machines - source of image: Japan-house website)

Tokyo - So Crowded City

(Shibuya crossing - source of image: Pexels.com website)

In Tokyo, the stations or intersections are very crowded. Most people walk, and they walk very fast. Sometimes, there are a few cyclists. Shibuya crossing is the biggest and busiest crossing in Tokyo, where sometimes 3000 or more people cross the intersection at once. You could easily find long queues of people waiting in front of the stores to buy something. According to Wikipedia, with 37.19 million people, Tokyo is the most populous city in the world today.

Above are the three points that impressed me the most when coming to Tokyo. Besides, public transportation systems, high-tech washlets, and many other things are special points in Japan. If you have a chance, come to Tokyo once, there are many surprises waiting for you there. Or you can consider to apply for IVC employee to have the opportunity visiting Japan in the future.

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