I have always imagined myself to be likeable, but likeable doesn’t equal eloquence. Eloquence, combined with confidence, is an engaging and powerful combination that lets a person fit in anywhere (should they desire) and engage in meaningful (or trivial) banter with anyone, anywhere. Whenever I fly, I usually end up returning with one or more business card – however, people are usually relaxed when they travel and therefore more likely to converse with ease, should they desire. Job interviews are often another matter altogether. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a significant change in the ways in which I approach and deal with potential business opportunities and networking opportunities. Rather than nervously wait for yet-another-question destined to test my knowledge or skill, I interview the interviewer. Rather than approaching a situation, with fervent hope that they will want me, I entertain the notion if I, in fact, want them. The tables therefore become turned, therefore bringing a surge of confidence, and with it, eloquent and creative approaches to communicating one’s thoughts. Granted, there is indeed such a thing as being too creative – yet another lesson I’ve had to learn on occasion. The trick seems to be “creativity within context” – fantastic if it fits, but detrimental if it leaves a person scratching their heads. An example of a recently learned lesson: Most Americans have not heard of the Caramilk chocolate bar. Therefore, a joke made with reference to “discovering the Caramilk secret” is not intelligent creativity, but actually a liability. Well-placed humour can be a real asset, but a person needs to know their audience! Life is a process defined by lessons, and Toastmasters has taught me the lesson of fearless and eloquent speech.