Educational Workshops Fearless Conversations Great conversations are much more than learning what words to say, it is the quality of the connection between people that establishes trust and creates a lasting impression. Michael is a professional speaker, mentor, and Sensei in the art of Aikido who today will share the wisdom of Aiki philosophy and how we can benefit from a deeper connection in every conversation and relationship. About the Speaker Michael Chojnacki is an Aikido Sensei and a business professional of 25 years. As a martial artist, he blends the highest principles of Aiki philosophy and human interaction into a dynamic art. Michael inspires people to discover their hidden potential, develop greater self-confidence, and enjoy a richer life experience. "How" DO You Network? 4 Networking Musts You've heard the phrase, "it's who you know." You've also heard how important it is to "build your network." Are you wondering how and where to start building your network? Or, are you a good networker and want to meet others to expand your current network? Having a network of people who are willing to help you is a powerful and priceless business tool. Your network is so much more than making a sale. Attend this session and we'll discuss:  .  Where to start with networking  .  Getting the most out of networking  .  Networking follow up  .  The four networking musts  .  Networking tips About the Speaker Connecting people is what Kristy does and does well. Kristy Rogers is the regional executive director of eWomenNetwork San Jose and co-founder of Women in Networking, and has years of experience connecting people and learning what makes powerful connections. Kristy recently launched her own business, KristyRogersConnects, dedicated to helping business people network, follow up, and show they care. If you haven't met Kristy yet, please make sure you do?" She wants to meet you. She was just named "Managing Director of the Year 2006" by eWomenNetwork and recently crowned "The Royal Schmoozer 2006" by the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce. Kristy Rogers eWomenNetwork Accent Modification for Clear Communication We will address the richness and value of accented speech, as well as the ways in which accents can interfere with optimal functioning both professionally and socially. We'll explore the essential skills needed for streamlined, clear, and effective communication between native and non-native speakers of American English as we learn proven techniques for readily achieving these goals. Accented speech will be broken down into its characteristic components and patterns as we analyze.concrete examples of each element contributing to an accent. Typical error patterns of select ethnic groups will be described, along with strategies for modifying them. Concepts will be vividly illustrated by anecdotal material of clients Ms. Cohen has coached professionally. About the Speaker Jyl Cohen, principal of the Accent Reduction Training Institute based in the San Francisco Bay Area, provides cutting edge training seminars in Accent Modification to foreign-born Executives, Scientists, Managers, Engineers, Physicians, and Entrepreneurs both nationally and internationally, who wish to speak American English with clarity, precision, and impact, so they will be readily understood and project a polished professional image when conducting meetings, giving oral presentations, participating in conference calls, speaking with the media, and conversing with colleagues and customers. Ms. Cohen is a Speech and Language Therapist and Accent Modification Coach/Consultant with more than 25 years of combined experience as a Corporate Trainer, Educator, Speech and Diction Coach, and Cross-Cultural Communication Specialist. She has successfully worked with clients from more than 85 different countries. The Gift of An Effective Evaluation  .  An evaluation is a gift to the speaker  .  Do for them what they can't do for themselves  .  Use the "fluffy bun sandwich approach"  .  Build the confidence of the speaker  .  Focus on the positive About the Speaker: Bud Everts has had a fun and exciting career in the Restaurant, Theme Park and Museum industries. From being a waiter in his college days, Bud moved up through the ranks of Dining Room Captain, Banquet Manager, Wine Steward, General Manager, District Manager and Director of Human Resources for Stuart Anderson's Black Angus Restaurants, opening restaurants across the United States and in Singapore. Bud has also overseen Operations and Human Resources at Bonfante Gardens and at The Tech Museum of Innovation, at the forefront of technological progess in Silicon Valley. Bud actually enjoys giving evaluations, whether in the business world and or Toastmasters. In 2005, he won the Evaluation contest at his Club, Area and District levels and competed at Division. Bud has a unique perspective on evaluations and looks forward to sharing them with you.